If a close loved one leaves this world without life insurance or advance funeral planning, there is a pretty good chance that you will be left covering the bill for the funeral and burial. With the average funeral costing more than $7,000, it can be disheartening to be facing a new bill along with life without your family member.
Suddenly becoming responsible for paying funeral expenses will no doubt leave you with questions and concerns. Here are a few of the most common questions and concerns and the answers you will want to know:
Are there any federal or state programs that can help you pay for funeral expenses?
There are a few non-profit organizations that help individuals with funeral expenses, but these can be difficult to find. In some states, a low-income individual may qualify for a state-provided burial. However, this will be the most basic burial and does not include funeral services.
If your family member was a member of the armed forces or a veteran, the funeral expenses may be covered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Plus, individuals who were drawing social security benefits before they passed away may receive a $255 payment to help cover funeral expenses.
What will the funeral home do if you cannot pay the funeral bill payment?
If you cannot come up with enough money to cover the cost of a funeral, the funeral home will likely set up a payment plan with you. If you having a hard time making payments, you should not feel intimidated by the funeral home. This situation happens often and most will work with you to come up with a solution. For example, you may be able to get the payment lowered or extend the due date by giving the accounting office a call.
Can you claim a deduction on your taxes for funeral expenses?
In most cases the answer to this question is no. However, if you used money from a loved one's estate to help cover the cost of funeral expenses, you may be able to file forms with the IRS that will allow for a deduction. This can be helpful if you are left with paying taxes at the end of the year on a loved one's estate.
It can be a major worry to be left with paying funeral expenses without warning. Keep in mind that even though the situation can be bothersome, there are many ways that you may be able to find some relief.
Share16 April 2015
When my father passed away a year ago, my mother didn't have any problems with the funeral or burial. My father planned his funeral in advance. He didn't want to burden my mom with any problems during her time of grieving. That hit me. I realized that I didn't have any plans for my own future, which would make it even harder on my wife and kids. So, I contacted a funeral home online and requested information about burial services. The funeral home provided me with many options that I could afford to pay over time or upfront. My wife also helped select burial plots for us because we didn't want to be separated — even after death. I encourage you to read through my blog. It offers great tips and advice on how to plan for your own future. Don't wait. You never know what life holds for you.