Payment policy

At The Modern Funeral Ltd, we recognise that arranging a funeral is an emotional and often stressful time, and we know that some of that stress may come from an unexpected financial burden. 

We commit to planning the funeral with your suggested budget at the forefront, and we aim to be transparent and fair about costs and payments. We must, of course, also ensure our own financial sustainability so that we can continue to provide a high standard of care to all. Below is an overview of how we will respond to a situation where timely payment has not been made.

When payment is due

  • Full payment is required before the funeral takes place, unless we have agreed otherwise in writing.
  • This includes all third-party costs (such as crematorium, burial, or officiant fees as well as any venue hire and catering costs) and our professional service charges.
  • We will provide a clear written estimate and invoice in advance.

Planning with your budget in mind

We understand that everyone’s financial situation is different. Wherever possible, we will work with you to create a meaningful funeral that reflects your wishes and remains within your budget. We offer a wide range of options and will always discuss costs clearly and sensitively to help you make informed decisions.

If payment isn’t received in advance

  • In certain circumstances, a funeral may proceed before payment is received, based on our discretion and trust.
  • If payment remains outstanding after the funeral has taken place and no prior arrangement has been agreed, we will contact you. If we don’t come to a resolution, we will begin our debt recovery process.

How we handle unpaid accounts

1. Initial contact

We will send a written reminder within 7 days of the missed payment, along with an invitation to contact us to resolve the matter.

2. Final demand letter

If the account is still unpaid, we will issue a letter before action, giving you 14 days to pay in full or respond with a proposal.

3. Legal recovery

If there is still no resolution, we may begin legal proceedings through the county court to recover the debt. If successful, the court may issue a county court judgment (CCJ), which can affect your credit record for up to 6 years.

4. Further enforcement

If the debt remains unpaid after judgment, we may:

  • Appoint enforcement agents (bailiffs)
  • Apply for deductions from wages (attachment of earnings order)
  • Apply for a charging order on the debtor’s property

Who is responsible for making payment

The person who signs the funeral arrangement contract is legally personally responsible for payment of all costs. Even if the funeral is expected to be paid from the estate of the person who has died, you remain responsible for ensuring the account is settled in a timely manner.

If you’re struggling financially

We understand that financial pressure can be especially difficult during bereavement. If you’re unable to pay in full, please let us know as early as possible. We may be able to:

  • Arrange a short-term payment plan (at our discretion)
  • Refer you to relevant financial support services (e.g. DWP funeral expenses payment)

Your privacy

All matters relating to unpaid accounts are handled sensitively and in line with the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR.

If you have any questions about our payment policy, or need help with funeral costs, please speak to us. We’re here to help.