Prepaid direct cremation explained
What is a prepaid direct cremation plan?
A prepaid direct cremation plan is a simple way to pay for and arrange your funeral in advance. It is an agreement between you and a funeral provider, that they will provide a direct cremation for you when the time comes.
Unlike a traditional funeral, a direct cremation usually takes place without a service or ceremony, without any mourners present. There is also no procession using a hearse or limousines beforehand. The direct nature of this service means there is no opportunity to view the deceased.
This suits those people that would prefer a no fuss funeral.
What does a prepaid direct cremation include?
The level of direct cremation cover will differ between providers, so you should be sure you understand exactly what is included in any plan before you buy it, so your loved ones are not left with any surprise bills when the time comes. Not all providers will cover cremation fees and some providers may only cover a contribution towards the cost of services.
At Simplicity, The Lily Plan covers everything you will need for a simple cremation including 24/7 collection from the place of rest, care in our quality mortuary facilities, cremation fees, the provision of a simple coffin and transportation in a specialised vehicle. Following the cremation, your ashes will be returned to your loved ones.
The cremation will take place at one of our preferred crematoria, local to your place of rest. Our services are available throughout the whole of mainland Great Britain.
All arrangements will be made by our team of expert funeral professionals. Your family will simply need to call us when the time comes. With our prepaid plans, there is no requirement for you or your family to meet with a Funeral Director as we can take care of everything over the phone.
How much does a direct cremation funeral plan cost?
Regardless of the funeral provider you choose, you should expect to pay considerably less for a direct cremation funeral plan than you would for a traditional funeral.
At Simplicity, our prepaid direct cremation plan costs £1,495 if paid in a lump sum or in instalments within 12 months.
We also offer flexible payment options allowing you to spread the cost over a duration that suits you and your budget*.
Taking care of your funeral arrangements in advance means you can fix the cost of the services in the funeral plan at today’s price, meaning there is no more to pay for these services in the future, no matter how much costs may increase.
*Provided all payments are made by the 80th birthday of the planholder. Payment over a duration longer than 12 months will incur a small administration fee.
Can you attend a prepaid direct cremation?
A prepaid direct cremation will typically take place unattended. Should they wish to, your family will be able to make additional arrangements after the event, perhaps for a memorial service or celebration of life in your honour.
Many people are uncomfortable with the thought of not attending their loved one's funeral. That’s why we also offer two prepaid funeral plans which include the option to attend the cremation.
The Magnolia Plan from £1,795 – this plan offers a small funeral, with just a few close friends and family present. The Magnolia Plan provides a simple cremation with a short time in the chapel for a few moments of reflection.
The Orchid Plan from £2,295 – this plan means your family will have the freedom to arrange a ceremony in the chapel, as you would with a traditional funeral. They will be able to choose who will lead the service and any music, readings and eulogies.
Why should I take out direct cremation cover?
The real benefit of direct cremation cover is that you can freeze the cost of your funeral at today’s prices, meaning your loved ones will be protected from any potential future price rises or inflation, with no more to pay for the services covered in your prepaid plan in the future.
There are also a number of other reasons you should consider a prepaid direct cremation:
Plan it your way
Putting a plan in place allows you to make important decisions and ensure your funeral is carried out according to your wishes.
Avoids placing a financial burden on your family in the event of your death
A funeral can cost several thousands of pounds and will often need to be paid within 28 days of the funeral taking place. By taking out a prepaid funeral plan, your loved ones will not need to worry about finding such a large sum of money.
Relieves your family from stressful arrangements
Arranging a funeral can be stressful at what will already be an emotional time. By taking out a prepaid plan you are helping your family avoid difficult decisions.
Your savings may not cover the cost
Many people put money away into a savings account to cover the cost of their funeral. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee you will have saved enough to cover the cost of your funeral when the time comes.
You would rather your family and friends hold an alternative celebration
Some people hate going to funerals and would rather their family did not have to experience the same thing. You may prefer for your family to hold a memorial or celebration of life at a time and place away from the crematorium.
It's easy to take out a prepaid direct cremation
Anyone aged 50 or over is guaranteed to be accepted for a prepaid direct cremation with Simplicity.
If you would like to learn more about Simplicity Prepaid Plans, contact us today or buy online.