Paying for the funeral

The person who arranges the funeral is responsible for paying the bill. As a first step you should check whether the deceased person had a funeral plan or insurance to cover the cost.

Most banks will settle the bill

In the absence of something like a funeral plan, most banks or building societies will agree to settle the funeral bill ahead of the grant of representation provided there is sufficient money in the account with them. For them to pay the bill they are likely to want to see the invoice and a copy of the death certificate.

A bank or building society will usually also agree to reimburse someone who has already settled the bill with the funeral director.

Delay payment

If ready funds are not available, then you should speak to the funeral director and ask for delayed settlement of their bill. Most funeral directors will understandably want at least a deposit paid up front to cover the disbursements and other payments that they need to make to third parties.

Short term loan

If necessary you may need to consider  taking out a short term loan to cover the deposit and/ or the funeral bill. The loan can then be repaid after the grant of representation has been obtained when assets in the estate can be realized.

Please note

The information which we provide through Lasting Post is in outline for information or educational purposes only. The information is not a substitute for the professional judgment of a solicitor, accountant or other professional adviser. We cannot guarantee that information provided by Lasting Post will meet your individual needs, as this will very much depend on your individual circumstances. You should therefore use the information only as a starting point for your enquiries.