Funeral Arranger at Memoria Direct Cremation
Senior Funeral Arranger at Memoria Direct Cremation
Buying a direct cremation plan gives you the opportunity to plan – and pay for – a simple cremation. Your prepaid plan covers everything needed, including funeral director services, paperwork and care, a simple coffin, cremation and return of the ashes. As there’s no funeral service or viewing and no hearse or flowers, it’s a good option for people who don’t like a fuss, a practical choice for friends and family who may find it difficult to attend a traditional service, and it gives your loved ones the freedom to say goodbye in their own time, in their own way.
Crucially, when you buy a prepaid plan you’re locking in today’s prices, with no hidden charges or extra costs. Your family will know exactly what you want to happen, and they won’t have to worry about making the arrangements when they’re grieving.
If you would like to know more, our guides explain what’s included in a direct cremation, and what happens at each stage.
How to pay cremation costs in advance
When you buy a direct cremation plan with Memoria Direct Cremation, you have the option to pay using a single, lump-sum payment, or spread the cost with a monthly payment plan that runs for five years (60 months).
Is there an age limit for paying in instalments?
Yes. You can buy a prepaid plan and pay in instalments when you are aged 40 – 79. This is because the plan must be paid in full before your 85th birthday. If you are aged 80-99, you can still buy a direct cremation plan, but you will need to pay upfront with one single payment.
Does it cost more to pay in instalments?
Yes. Although you will not be charged interest when you pay in instalments, our direct cremation plan includes a fixed business charge, which covers the cost of Memoria Direct Cremation administering and processing your plan. This charge is higher when you choose to pay in instalments, simply to reflect the administrative costs associated with 60 monthly payments.
When will my instalments be collected?
Your monthly instalments are collected by direct debit. You will set this up as you progress through the checkout process and can choose for your bank account to be debited on the 1st, 15th or 28th of the month. Please contact us if you would like to amend your payment date after your plan has been set up.
Do I need to make a payment straight away?
Yes. If you choose to pay in instalments, you will pay an initial set up fee / deposit of £95, and your first payment will be taken on the date of your choosing in the next calendar month.
What happens if I pay in instalments and I die before my plan is paid off?
If you die within the first two years of your plan start date, your nominated representative can choose to cancel your plan and receive a refund or pay the outstanding balance so that we can deliver it according to your wishes. If you die after this, your direct cremation plan will be delivered with no more to pay (T&Cs apply). Your plan is guaranteed in the event of accidental death, even if this occurs less than two years from the start date.
What happens if I fall behind on my payments?
Please contact us if, for any reason, you are unable to make your usual monthly payment. If you miss a payment, and you have not been in contact, we will write to you within five working days asking you to bring the payments up to date.
If you miss a second consecutive monthly payment, we will send you a statement of the payments due and the total shortfall. If you do not pay the outstanding amount within 10 working days of our request, we reserve the right to cancel your plan.
Can I cancel my direct cremation plan?
Yes, when you pay with instalments you have the right to cancel your plan and receive a full refund within two years of the plan start date. If you cancel your plan after this time, you will be charged a cancellation fee of £95.
Can I make changes to my direct cremation plan?
Yes, please contact us if you would like to make any changes to your plan. If you would like to change your payment method or update your wishes, this may incur an additional charge.
Do you have questions about paying for your direct cremation plan in instalments? Our dedicated team is here to help you. Just give us a call on 0800 007 3921 and we'll guide you through the process.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to pay for direct cremation when I die rather buying a plan?
A funeral plan protects you from the rising cost of funerals in the future. This is because your plan is protected against inflation, so even if the cost of direct cremation goes up over time, you are locking in today’s price. For this reason, it may not be the best option if you expect to need it soon. It’s also worth noting that, once paid for, a direct cremation plan doesn’t count towards your estate so, unlike savings, it won’t be subject to inheritance tax.
Is my money safe in a prepaid direct cremation plan?
Yes, all UK providers – including Memoria Funeral Plans Limited – must be authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This guarantees Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) protection, meaning that even if your chosen provider goes out of business, your funeral will go ahead as planned or you’ll get a full refund.
Where is the money for my direct cremation plan held?
The money that you pay towards your plan will be used to purchase a whole of life insurance policy with our chosen life insurance provider. Memoria Direct Cremation will be the beneficiary of this policy upon your death and will use the funds to deliver your direct cremation plan.
