How to get help with funeral costs

Planning a funeral can feel overwhelming, particularly when you are worried about how it will be paid for. Please tell us as early as possible if funeral costs are a concern. We can explain the available choices and provide a written estimate before arrangements are confirmed.

We will clearly explain Abercorn Funeral Services’ charges and any third-party costs, such as crematorium or cemetery fees, minister or celebrant fees, notices, flowers and other services you choose.

Written estimate of funeral costs

Once the funeral arrangements and personal choices have been discussed, we will provide a written estimate showing:

• Abercorn Funeral Services’ charges.
• Crematorium or cemetery fees.
• Other necessary third-party charges.
• Any optional services or products selected by the family.

Please ask us about anything you do not understand. Changes made after the estimate has been prepared may affect the final cost, but these will be discussed with you wherever possible.

Funeral Support Payment in Scotland

Funeral Support Payment is a one-off payment from Social Security Scotland that may help eligible people with funeral costs.

You may be able to apply if:

• You live in Scotland.
• You or your partner is responsible for paying for the funeral.
• You or your partner receives a qualifying benefit or tax credit.
• Your relationship with the person who died meets Social Security Scotland’s rules.

The payment can help towards reasonable burial or cremation costs, certain transport costs and some other funeral expenses. The amount awarded depends on the circumstances, including any money available from the person’s estate, insurance policies or funeral plan.

You can normally apply from the date the person dies until six months after the funeral. You do not need to wait until you have received the final funeral bill before beginning an application.

Check eligibility and apply for Funeral Support Payment

You can also telephone Social Security Scotland free on 0800 182 2222.

An award is not guaranteed. If you intend to apply, please tell us before confirming the funeral arrangements so that costs and payment responsibilities are clearly understood.

Paying from the person’s estate

Reasonable funeral expenses are normally paid from the money and property left by the person who died.

If sufficient money is held in the deceased person’s bank or building-society account, the bank may be willing to pay the funeral account directly. This can sometimes be arranged before the estate has been fully administered.

The bank will normally ask for identification and a copy of the funeral account. Each bank has its own procedure, so contact the deceased person’s bank for guidance.

If there may not be enough money in the estate to meet all debts and funeral costs, obtain appropriate legal advice before using or distributing estate funds.

Find general guidance about dealing with money after a death

Check for a funeral plan, insurance or other provision

Before making payment arrangements, check whether the person who died had:

• A prepaid funeral plan.
• A life-insurance or over-50s policy.
• Death-in-service benefits through an employer.
• A pension or occupational benefit that includes a payment following death.
• Membership of a trade union, friendly society or other organisation offering funeral assistance.
• Savings specifically intended for funeral costs.

Contact the relevant provider before assuming that a plan or policy will meet the whole cost. Some products cover only particular services or provide a fixed cash payment.

Choosing an affordable funeral

A meaningful and dignified funeral does not have to include every available option.

If cost is a concern, we can discuss:

• A simple attended funeral.
• A direct cremation without a service at the crematorium.
• Different choices of coffin.
• Holding a memorial or celebration separately.
• Using family flowers, music, photographs or printed materials.
• Which services are essential and which are optional.

We will explain the choices without pressure and help you understand the likely costs before decisions are finalised.

Other help and independent advice

You may also wish to seek free, independent advice about benefits, debts or managing the estate:

• Citizens Advice Scotland
• MoneyHelper – arranging a funeral
• Scottish Government guidance following a death

Speak to Abercorn Funeral Services

Please speak to us as early as possible if you are worried about funeral costs. We will provide clear information, discuss suitable choices and give you a written estimate before the arrangements are confirmed.

Edinburgh: 0131 259 2322
Musselburgh: 0131 629 5151

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