Resources

Resources & Links for More Information

 

What To Do When You Can't Afford a Funeral

 Advice from Josh Slocum, former FCA executive director  

 "The most important thing to remember is that a meaningful, heartfelt memorial doesn't need to cost more than your family can afford. Whether you spend $600 or $10,000, you'll love and miss the deceased just as much. It's the coming together of family and friends to laugh, cry, and love each other that makes a funeral meaningful, not the amount of money it costs. 

​And this is crucial: there is no charity or government organization that will pay off any debt you've accrued if you arrange a  funeral that's beyond your means. It's your family's responsibility to spend within its budget. Funeral homes are not required to let you pay in installments; many these days are asking for payment upfront. While this might seem frustrating, it's a responsible business practice and it prevents many grieving people from falling into a financial trap when they're not thinking clearly. Sweating the monthly bills six months after the death because the funeral payments are high does not, I assure you, help lift the burden of grief." 

 There are some suggestions for creative ways to economize, and otherwise pay for funeral or memorial expenses on the FCA website.

Advance Planning

Price Comparisons & Affordability 

For Families

Body Donation Resources

Dementia

  • Dementia Values and Priorities Tool -  this tool is to help early-stage dementia patients make clear decisions about the course of their care/illness for the benefit of their loved ones. 

  • Dementia Decoder -   this decision tree/ checklist process helps guide you in your control of the future course of treatment and your end of life choices.  

  • Compassion & Choices Values Tool - this tool helps a person create a Dementia Directive to add to their Advance Directives.