As part of the service of arranging the funeral, the funeral director arranges payment on your behalf for the purchase of all goods and services associated with the funeral.

These services might typically include cemetery plots, cremation fees, floral tributes, funeral notices, catering services, clergy/church fees and if applicable an Independent Doctor report for cremation, along with the incidentals such as coffin/casket, professional and mortuary fees associated with running a funeral.

This way all the expenses for the funeral, including the funeral director’s own charge, can be sent to you in one convenient itemised account.  If the deceased held a bank account with sufficient funds to cover funeral expenses, in most cases the funeral director’s account can be presented to the bank for direct payment.

Although during a time of sadness it may seem awkward to discuss costs, open and honest discussion is necessary during the planning stages of the funeral.  It is important to balance emotional decisions with practical common sense.

Available entitlements

Centrelink

The Centrelink bereavement payment is to assist with settling financial affairs associated with expenses incurred by the deceased prior to death.  This may include the extension of existing payments and/or a lump sum paid to a surviving partner, a carer or parent of a child.  It is to assist with the changed circumstances caused by the death of a person who is a pensioner, long term allowee, a child or care recipient.  You will need to contact Centrelink for eligibility criteria.

Department of Veteran’s Affairs

If the deceased was an ex-service person you will need to contact the Department of Veteran’s Affairs and ask if they’re eligible to claim a veteran’s funeral benefit.  If they are entitled, you will be sent an application form to complete and, once returned, payment will be made into the deceased veteran’s estate.