[Consumer Info] Funeral Consumer Rights

If a family member or friend dies and you are arranging their funeral, there are many things to consider and several steps to take.

[Consumer Info] Funeral Consumer Rights Source: Getty Images

First, you should find out if they have a will as it could contain directions for funeral arrangements. Then consider:

• Have any financial arrangements been made to pay for the funeral such as a funeral bond or insurance or pre-paid funeral?
• Did the deceased person have a pre-paid grave?
• Is there enough money in the deceased person’s bank account to pay for the funeral and have you contacted the bank about accessing the funds?
• Are there any sickness, accident, life, superannuation or private health insurance policies which may make a payment towards the funeral?
• Was the deceased a returned service person or did they belong to any club, pensioner association or trade union, which may entitle them to a funeral benefit?
• If you or the deceased person received payments from Centrelink have you checked with Centrelink about a possible bereavement payment or allowance?

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