Chain funeral homes inflate prices at times of desperation

RIP-OFF ALERT: Most of us do not tell our loved ones what we want at the time of our death. Is it cremation, burial, a fancy casket, a cheap pine box? We may try to bring up the topic, but our loved ones may not want to hear it because it's painful.

The funeral industry has gone through major changes in last 2 decades. Large national chains like SCI and Stewart have bought up ma-and-pa businesses, yet they haven't changed the old names of the funeral homes. That way they give the illusion of still offering the personal hometown touch. The Funeral Consumers Alliance of Greater Kansas City surveyed 74 funeral homes in their area to compare prices. Prices ranged from $3K to over $7K for the exact same services and products. The most expensive homes were owned by the major funeral chains. Curious about what inflation will look like in 2040? Go to a chain funeral home, Clark says!

Of course, you can avoid costly funeral arrangements at the time of your death by planning in advance through a nonprofit memorial society like Funerals.org Clark has been member for 31 years. You get the benefit of group buying power for prices that are at a 70% discount. If you join, be sure to tell your loved ones and give them the necessary paperwork you've filled out.

Most people, however, won't join a memorial society. So if you're faced with a sudden death in the family, you may want to contact EverestFuneral.com. For a fee of $500, they'll negotiate the best prices on your behalf. That can amount to a savings of thousands of dollars. Finally, be sure your loved ones know about your organ donation wishes. A new study finds that more than 90% of Americans want to donate their organs, but only about 25% are signed up to do so.