How to Compare Funeral Home Quotes in Ontario
Comparing quotes from a few funeral homes can save thousands of dollars. Here is what to look for and what questions to ask.
Before you start
You do not need to visit a funeral home in person to get prices. Ontario funeral homes must give you their General Price List over the phone or by email.
Step-by-step comparison
- Request the General Price List (GPL) from each funeral home. Do this by phone or email before any in-person meeting.
- Compare the same services across providers. Direct cremation at one home should include similar items as another.
- Find the basic services fee on each GPL. This non-declinable fee ranges from $1,500 to $3,500 and affects your total.
- Ask about extras: death certificate fees, facility charges, after-hours fees, mileage charges, and third-party costs.
- Consider location. A slightly higher-priced funeral home closer to family may make more sense than traveling far.
Questions to ask
About pricing
- What is included in your direct cremation package?
- What is your basic services fee?
- Are there additional facility or equipment fees?
- What are your after-hours charges?
About options
- Do you offer payment plans?
- Can I provide my own casket or urn?
- What third-party costs will be added?
- Is embalming required for my choices?
Watch for this
Some funeral homes quote low base prices but add many extras. Others include more in their base price. Always compare the total cost for identical services.
Common questions
How many funeral homes should I get quotes from?
We recommend quotes from 2 to 3 funeral homes. This gives you a good range of options without adding stress during a difficult time.
What is a GPL and why does it matter?
A General Price List (GPL) shows all funeral home prices in detail. Ontario funeral homes must provide this upon request. It lets you compare exact costs line by line.
Can I negotiate funeral prices?
The basic service fee is usually fixed, but you can save by declining optional services, buying caskets elsewhere, or choosing simpler merchandise.