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Two Together: Save £100!
Save £100 when you purchase two funeral plans together. Call us for more details.
Buy now, pay in January
Buy your funeral plan today and pay in January for peace of mind this Christmas. Click here for full T&Cs.
Two Together: Save £100!
Save £100 when you purchase two funeral plans together. Call us for more details.
Buy now, pay in January
Buy your funeral plan today and pay in January for peace of mind this Christmas. Click here for full T&Cs.
16 minute read
Thinking about a future where you’re not here isn’t always easy, but planning ahead can make a big difference for your loved ones. In this guide, we’ll explore what a funeral plan is and how a funeral plan works, showing how these thoughtful arrangements can ease financial burdens and help you create a farewell that reflects your wishes. By understanding these key details, you can decide if a prepaid funeral plan is right for you, offering peace of mind and helping ensure your final wishes are respected when the time comes.
A prepaid funeral plan allows you to arrange and pay for your funeral in advance, relieving your family from the financial and emotional difficulties that come with funeral planning. It is a thoughtful way of planning ahead, offering peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.
The main purpose of a funeral plan is to organise who your family can turn to after you have passed. You can arrange a plan with many different companies, from your local funeral director to national providers. They will hold your funds safely until they are needed and then handle your care and your funeral details when the time comes.
There are many reasons why you may want to plan your own funeral. Some choose prepaid funeral plans to take control of their end-of-life arrangements, ensuring that their wishes are respected. Whether you want a traditional service, a direct cremation, or a celebration of life, a prepaid funeral plan means that you can set out details in advance.
Additionally, many financial benefits may impact someone’s decision to get a prepaid funeral plan as funeral expenses seem to be on the rise. Data in the SunLife Cost of Dying Report suggests that the current average funeral cost is £4,141, which has increased from the data in the previous year’s report. A study from Legal & General also supports this rising trend in funeral expenses, suggesting that average costs could reach as high as £6,259 by 2033.
By purchasing a funeral plan at today’s prices, you protect yourself from these potential future price increases. This can save your family significant financial strain when the time comes, as all or most of the costs will have been taken care of.
Funeral plans can vary in terms of what is included, but they typically cover key aspects of a person’s care and funeral needs. This may include the funeral director’s services, transport of the person who has passed to the funeral home, a simple coffin and cremation or burial costs.
Some plans also cover third-party costs, known as disbursements, which may include fees for the services of a minister or celebrant, a hearse or limousines, and the cost of the chapel or venue for the ceremony. However, not all funeral plans include these costs in full, so it’s important to check whether the plan covers them or only contributes a fixed amount towards them.
As every funeral plan will offer different coverage, it’s difficult to say exactly what you can expect from each provider. However, here at Aura, we offer all-inclusive funeral plans for direct cremations. This means that all necessary services relating to your funeral with us are completely covered, ensuring peace of mind that there’s nothing more to pay later.
Included in our unattended direct cremation plans:
If you would like your loved ones present at your cremation, we offer the option to add an intimate ceremony with our two attended direct cremation plans which include:
A funeral plan covers funeral expenses. You are prepaying for arrangements before you need them to guarantee protection from potential inflation. Most funeral plans ensure that you pay today’s prices, no matter how much funeral expenses increase after you purchase your plan. This guarantee of fixed costs is one of the main reasons why people choose a prepaid funeral plan.
At Aura, every essential cost you’ll need for your funeral is included in our plans. This means there are no unexpected fees or additional charges later, giving you and your loved ones complete clarity and peace of mind. You pay only what’s agreed upon from the start, securing a stress-free solution for the future.
Once a funeral plan is in place, funeral directors manage the service details. They are responsible for coordinating the logistics, such as the transportation of your body and organising the service. This takes a huge amount of pressure off your loved ones during an emotionally difficult time.
Different providers may offer several payment options when you purchase your funeral plan. Some plan holders prefer to settle their payments upfront in one lump sum, whereas others would rather pay in instalments as monthly payments spread out the costs over time, making it easier to budget. You can choose the payment term that works best for you, often ranging from 12 months to several years, depending on your provider.
While spreading payments can make funeral plans more affordable, it is essential to check for any additional charges. Some providers may add administration fees or interest to instalments, which can significantly increase the overall cost. Before committing to a plan, you may want to compare the total amount payable over the instalment period across different providers.
At Aura, we offer flexible instalment plans over 12 to 24 months with absolutely no extra charges, ensuring that you can spread the cost of your funeral plan without worrying about hidden fees or increased costs.
A funeral plan becomes fully active once it has been paid in full, whether through a lump-sum payment or after completing all instalments. If a plan holder passes away unexpectedly due to an accident while there are still instalments outstanding, most providers may cover the remaining balance and honour the funeral plan, however, it’s important to check this with your chosen provider.
When the time comes to put your funeral plan into action, a Nominated Representative, usually a family member or close friend, will be responsible for contacting the funeral plan provider. From there, the provider coordinates all the funeral details, handling everything in line with the plan’s specifications. When families arrange services through a funeral plan, the process is less stressful. Instead, your loved ones can focus on grieving without the added pressure of making last-minute arrangements or worrying about costs.
There are several types of funeral plans available, each catering to different needs and preferences. Understanding these options can help you choose the best one for you or your family.
Standard funeral plans typically cover the costs of services such as transportation of the body, care and preparation, the funeral service itself, and often burial or cremation fees. These plans are designed for those who want a traditional service with the full range of elements, from a coffin and hearse to a ceremony, and possibly even a wake. They’re perfect for people who want a structured and familiar funeral format, usually following religious or cultural customs.
Some people prefer to have full control over every aspect of their funeral arrangements, and bespoke plans allow for this level of personalisation. You can specify the details and set aside certain amounts of money for special vehicles, flowers, venues, and more. Bespoke plans are ideal for those who want to create a unique and customised farewell that reflects their personality or specific wishes. This option may appeal to those who want to move away from traditional formats or incorporate meaningful elements that are important to them.
For those looking for simplicity, direct cremation is a popular choice. It involves the body being cremated without a formal service or attendees at the crematorium. These plans are more affordable than traditional funerals, as they eliminate the costs associated with a ceremony. Direct cremation allows families to hold their own memorial or celebration of life at a time and place of their choosing, offering flexibility and often reflecting a more modern approach to honouring a loved one.
While prepaid funeral plans can be a convenient way to manage end-of-life expenses, they are not the only option available. Some alternatives include:
Many opt for over 50s life insurance, which pays out a lump sum upon death. This money can be used to cover funeral costs or other expenses, offering flexibility for your family. However, you may want to compare the costs of funeral plans to over 50s life insurance as you may end up paying more in monthly premiums than your beneficiaries receive when you pass, and that might not cover all of your funeral costs.
Setting aside money in a designated savings account can help cover funeral expenses. However, this does not shield your loved ones from the difficult logistical issues that come with funeral planning and may cause delays if probate is needed to access your funds.
Funeral costs can be settled from your estate after you pass away. However, your estate may be subject to inheritance tax, unlike prepaid funeral plans, and so may not be as cost-efficient.
Every person’s situation and circumstances are unique and may need different approaches. It’s essential to weigh each option carefully before deciding the best way to cover your funeral expenses.
Most funeral plans can be taken out by individuals over the age of 18. However, some funeral plans may have age restrictions, often requiring individuals to be over 50 to qualify. Additionally, in order to spread the cost of a plan over a longer period (e.g. 10 or 20 years), you may need to be under a specific age which is usually around 80.
If you are older and considering a funeral plan, you may need to opt for a shorter payment period or pay in full upfront. It’s essential to check the terms and conditions of each plan to ensure that it aligns with your age and financial situation.
One of the key concerns when purchasing a funeral plan is knowing that your money is secure and available when needed. Thanks to welcome changes in the industry brought about by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in 2022, customers now have better consumer protection.
It is illegal to sell funeral plans without FCA-authorisation which comes with a strict set of regulations that protect you. Plan providers are now required to set aside the money needed for your funeral in an independently managed trust or an insurance policy. This keeps your money protected and separate from the company’s day-to-day operations.
Additionally, the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) offers a safety net in case the plan provider fails. If your provider goes out of business, the FSCS ensures that your funeral plan will still be honoured by transferring you to an alternative provider and you may also be entitled to compensation.
You can feel confident that your funeral plan is safe by checking that the provider is FCA-authorised and that their trust or insurance policy is well-managed.
Choosing a funeral plan is an important decision, so it’s recommended that you take your time to find the right one for you. You may want to research various providers, discuss options with your family and consider factors such as budget, personal needs, and the type of funeral you want. By weighing all aspects carefully, you can gain peace of mind in knowing that you have the right plan for you.
In your search to find the right funeral plan for you, you may come across a few different companies offering slightly different options. With so many choices on the market, it’s important to compare funeral plan providers to find something that suits your needs. Here are some key aspects you may want to investigate.
Pricing is often one of the first factors to consider, and it’s essential to understand what’s covered in a plan. Some companies provide comprehensive coverage, while others may have additional costs for certain services. Be cautious of hidden fees, which could leave your family with unexpected expenses later. Aura’s plans, for example, provide straightforward, inclusive pricing to offer clarity and peace of mind, so your loved ones aren’t burdened with extra charges.
Not all funeral plans are all-inclusive like ours at Aura. They may charge extra fees for the delivery of ashes or removal of medical implants. When evaluating plans, confirm what’s included to avoid unforeseen costs.
While no one expects it, life circumstances can change. Whether it’s your preferences over your funeral or you need to cancel completely, look into what kind of adjustments your funeral provider allows you to make and whether or not they come with extra fees. Aura, for instance, makes life easy with free changes and cancellations at any time, ensuring your plan always reflects your wishes. Other providers, however, can sometimes charge up to £350 if your circumstances change and you need to cancel your plan.
The quality of customer care can be invaluable when arranging end-of-life plans. Providers with a compassionate, attentive team can make the entire process smoother and more supportive for you and your family. Smaller, family-run companies like Aura can offer a human touch that ensures your family will receive a supportive and respectful experience when it comes to planning your funeral.
A provider’s track record speaks volumes. Independent reviews on sites like Trustpilot or Fairer Finance can give you insight into customer satisfaction and reliability. Additionally, websites like Money Saving Expert are a great resource for comparing funeral plans, as they provide impartial advice.
 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fairer finance rating | |||||
Starting from price | £1,595 | £1,995 | £1,700 | £1,785 | £1,595 |
Trustpilot rating | 4.9/5 stars | 4.8/5 stars | 4.6/5 stars | 4.6/5 stars | 4.9/5 stars |
| All-inclusive* | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Lifelong free cancellation | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Money-back satisfaction guarantee | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Trust solvency | 146% | 124.8% | 106% | 138% | Unknown |
| No added instalment fees | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
When you choose Aura, you’re choosing a team that genuinely cares. We’re not a big corporation but a family-run business with compassionate values that shape everything we do. Aura was founded by Paul Jameson, inspired by his own journey with end-of-life planning, so we know firsthand how comforting it can be to have a comprehensive plan in place for you and your family.
Our all-inclusive plans have no hidden fees to ensure your loved ones won’t face any surprises. We also understand that financial security is essential. That’s why we keep your funds safe in an independently managed trust. We are also authorised by the FCA, giving you full confidence in your choice.
Aura is proud to have earned recognition not only from our customers but also from respected industry organisations. We have earned a 4.9/5 stars rating on Trustpilot and two five-star ratings from Fairer Finance. Additionally, our commitment to responsible business practices earned us ‘SME Compliance Team of the Year’ award from the International Compliance Association (ICA) in 2024, highlighting the high standards we have in every aspect of our work.
Families can choose Aura with confidence, knowing they’re partnering with a team that truly values their needs and will be there with understanding and support when they need it most.
If you’d like more information or want help arranging a plan with us at Aura, our friendly team is here to support you—just give us a call and we can answer any questions you may have.
