7 Step 7 of 18

Arrange the funeral

Usually within 2-3 weeks

Work with your funeral director to plan the service. They will guide you through the options — there is no single right way to do this.

Your funeral director will help you decide on:

- The type of service (burial, cremation, direct cremation, natural burial)
- Where and when the service will be held
- The coffin or casket
- Flowers, music, and readings
- Transport and attendance
- An order of service, if you would like one

You do not have to decide everything at once. Some families find it helpful to ask close friends and family what the person would have wanted.

If cost is a concern, ask your funeral director about the options available. There is a wide range, and a good funeral director will work within your budget.

What you will need

The green form from the registrar (for burial or cremation)
Any wishes the person expressed about their funeral
Details of any pre-paid funeral plan

1-2 meetings with the funeral director

Planning a funeral can be both difficult and meaningful. Take the time you need.

Get a funeral cost estimate

Previous step

6. Check for a will

Next step

8. Notify their employer or pension provider

Your checklist

You are on step 7 of 18.

View full checklist

Call them directly

While you're here...

Most people forget these 5 things Before you go — don't miss this You're sorted. But there's more to do. 5 things most people forget to sort

Contacting the funeral director is step one. But there are 4 other things you'll need to deal with — and most people don't know about them until it's too late.

We'll send you a simple checklist so nothing gets missed.

One email. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

Check your inbox

We've sent the checklist to .