On average, a funeral director’s fee for an attended funeral is £2,500. This doesn’t include any fees that the funeral director pays on your behalf, such as the burial or cremation fee which can range from £300-£1,100. 

Understanding funeral director fees can help you plan a meaningful service within your budget. Fees vary depending on the type of service, location, and personal choices, so it’s important to get a clear breakdown of expenses before making arrangements. 

Funeral directors should provide a transparent pricing structure, allowing you to make informed decisions that suit your budget and preferences. It’s best to ask for a written estimate so you can compare costs later. 

What do funeral directors' fees include?

Funeral directors’ fees typically cover essential services, which often include:

• Collection and care of the deceased
• Completion of legal paperwork and administration
• Arranging the funeral service, including liaising with venues, clergy, or celebrants
• Provision of a coffin
• Transport for the deceased and family
• Support and guidance throughout the process

Additional costs may include flowers, obituary notices, order of service sheets, and catering for a wake. It’s always advisable to check what’s included in the quoted price to avoid unexpected expenses.

Typical fees for funeral services

Burial

Average funeral director fees: £2,500

Average fees for burial, wake and other optional extras: £2,600

An attended burial is where family and friends have a ceremony or service at the same time as when they attend the deceased’s burial. The total cost for an attended burial, including the funeral director’s fees and the burial itself plus option costs like catering for a wake, orders of service and flowers, is £5,100. An unattended burial, where there is no service at the same time as the deceased's burial, has an average total cost of £2,500.

Cremation

Average funeral director fees: £2,500

Average fees for cremation, wake and other optional extras: £1,300

Cremation services are often more affordable than burials. For an attended cremation, the total cost is usually around £3,800. For an unattended cremation where you choose to have your loved one's ashes scattered in the crematorium's garden of remembrance, the average total cost is £2,250.

How long will I have to pay a funeral director?

Most funeral directors will ask for a deposit before the funeral to cover the costs of the third-party fees they will pay on your behalf (the disbursements). Others will require full payment upfront, while some may allow payment in instalments. 

If you are worried about having enough time to pay, there are options such as funeral finance plans or government support available for some people. Also, remember to check whether your loved one had a pre-paid funeral plan before you make any payments.

What to expect when you meet a funeral director

When you first meet a funeral director, be prepared to be there for at least an hour or two. You’ll need time to think through everything carefully. 

The funeral director will discuss your wishes and guide you through the available options. They will cover when, where and at what time you would like the ceremony to be, all the documentation and admin that needs to be done, and cost and payment options. They should provide clear information about pricing, breaking down the different elements so you can compare costs if you need to. 

This meeting is also an opportunity to ask about personalisation options and any concerns you may have about the process. Planning a funeral is a deeply personal experience, and the right funeral director will offer both professional guidance and compassionate support, ensuring that every detail is handled with care and respect.

How to compare rates for funeral services

When comparing funeral director fees and other costs that come with arranging a funeral, consider the following:

• Request a detailed price list to understand what’s included
• Check for any additional or hidden costs
• Compare services and reputation by reading reviews
• Ask about flexible payment options or financial assistance
• Explore different types of funerals to find the most suitable and affordable option