Choosing a Funeral Director

Most of us have little experience when it comes to dealing with the legal requirements and details of planning a funeral. Just as you would engage the services of a lawyer or accountant for his or her professional expertise, working with a funeral director can help provide you with peace of mind. The NSW Office of Fair Trading's consumers guide to funerals lists as the main services provided by funeral directors:

• Registering the death after the issue of a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death
• Transferring the body from the place of death to the funeral directors premises
• Coordinating between your clergy or funeral celebrate, and the cemetery or crematorium to decide when, where and what type of service will be needed
• Preparing and placing death, funeral and obituary notices
• Preparing the body for burial or cremation
• Supplying a coffin or a casket
• Providing a place for viewing of the body
• Transporting the body by hearse to the ceremony and then to the cemetery or crematorium
• Paying for fees on your behalf such as flowers
• Advising and helping you with paperwork involved in accessing any financial benefits associated with the funeral

When choosing a funeral provider, consider:

• are they a member of the Australian Funeral Directors Association?
• has someone you know used or recommended them?
• how long have they been in business?
• are estimates provided in writing listing all charges and fees?
• are staff professionally presented and considerate to your needs?

A final note:

• don't feel pressured into buying services and products that you don't want, need or can't afford
• if a dispute arises contact the Office of Fair Trading to lodge a formal complaint
• shop around. Prices will vary from funeral provider to provider.
• if the person who has died is Australian pensioner, returned service person, or member of a trade union or club they may be eligible to a funeral benefit.

Funeral-Services gives you peace of mind

• Independent advice and information with your interest at heart
• Network of pre-selected providers ensuring high standards of care and professionalism
• Fast, simple registration process with local funeral providers contacting you.
• Products and services matched to your specific needs
• Checklists and FAQ's to help you make informed personal and financial decisions

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