Funeral Plan – planning and funding your future funeral needs

What is Funeral Plan and how does it work?

Funeral Plan is a collaboration between participating Funeral Directors and Irish Credit Unions which aims to help the general public to plan for and pay for all aspects of their future funeral giving peace of mind that they won’t be leaving a burden on their loved ones after their death.

This plan allows you the comfort in knowing that:

  • Funeral Plan allows members to borrow up to €10,000
  • Preferential rate of interest*
  • The proceeds of the Funeral Plan loan is deposited into a Funeral savings account
  • Funds are held as collateral against the Funeral Plan loan.
  • The Funeral Plan savings to be used to pay for the funeral upon the death of the member
  • The Funeral Plan loan is insured by the credit union
  • If the borrower passes away during the term of the loan, the loan is cleared off
Find a participating Funeral Director Apply for Funeral Plan

Preplanning your own funeral can be a thoughtful and considerate way to ease the burden on your loved ones in the future. Here is some content you may find helpful when preplanning your funeral:

Personal Information

  1. Full legal name, date of birth, and contact information.
  2. Any preferred nicknames or aliases you would like to be mentioned.
  3. Details about your education, career, and notable achievements you'd like to include.

Funeral Service Preferences

  1. Specify the type of service you prefer (e.g., religious, non-religious, celebration of life).
  2. Indicate whether you want the funeral to be public or private.
  3. Choose the location for the service (e.g., place of worship, funeral home, specific venue).
  4. Note any cultural or religious customs or rituals you would like to be incorporated.

Burial/Cremation Preferences

  1. State your preference for burial or cremation.
  2. If burial, indicate the preferred cemetery or burial site.
  3. If cremation, specify any specific instructions for the handling of your ashes.

Funeral Participants

  1. Note any specific individuals you would like to speak or participate in the service (e.g., family members, close friends).
  2. Provide their contact information, if possible, to assist in coordination.

Readings, Music, and Personal Tributes

  1. Select any readings, poems, or religious texts you would like to be read during the service.
  2. Specify any musical preferences, including songs or hymns you would like to be played or sung.
  3. Consider including personal tributes, such as slideshows, videos, or memory boards.

Funeral Reception or Gathering

  1. Decide if you would like to have a reception or gathering following the service.
  2. Indicate the venue preferences and any arrangements needed for catering or refreshments.

Charitable Donations

  1. Specify if you would like to suggest any specific charities or organizations for memorial donations in your name.

Funeral Expenses and Financial Considerations

  1. Consider discussing funeral costs and budgeting with a funeral director or financial advisor.
  2. Explore prepayment options or funeral insurance policies if desired..

Important Documents and Contacts

  1. Prepare a list of important documents, such as your will, insurance policies, and contact information for your attorney and executor.
  2. Provide the contact information for the funeral home or service provider of your choice.

Remember to communicate your funeral preplanning decisions with your loved ones or the executor of your estate. It is also advisable to consult with a professional funeral director to ensure all legal and logistical requirements are met.

Please note that this content is intended as general guidance, and it's important to consult with professionals and legal experts to ensure your funeral preplanning adheres to local regulations and meets your specific needs.

When it comes to financing a funeral in Ireland, there are several options available to consider. Here are some common avenues for covering funeral expenses:


Personal Savings If possible, using personal savings is a straightforward way to pay for a funeral. If you have savings set aside for emergencies or end-of-life expenses, you can allocate funds from there.


Funeral Insurance Funeral insurance policies are specifically designed to cover funeral costs. These policies typically involve paying regular premiums, and upon your passing, a predetermined sum is provided to cover funeral expenses. It's important to carefully review the terms and conditions of the policy to understand the coverage and any limitations or exclusions.


Funeral Prepayment Plans Many funeral homes in Ireland offer prepayment plans, sometimes referred to as "funeral bonds" or "prepaid funeral plans." These plans allow you to pay for your funeral in advance, either as a lump sum or in instalments. The funds are held in trust or a designated insurance policy until they are needed. Be sure to thoroughly research and choose a reputable funeral home that offers transparent and secure prepayment plans.


Social Welfare Support In certain circumstances, social welfare benefits in Ireland may be available to help cover funeral costs. The Department of Social Protection provides a once-off payment known as the Funeral Grant, which is subject to specific eligibility criteria. It's advisable to contact your local Social Welfare Office or visit the Citizens Information website for up-to-date information on eligibility requirements and the application process.


Funeral Expenses Payment In some cases, if you or your partner are in receipt of certain social welfare payments, you may be eligible for the Funeral Expenses Payment. This is a means-tested payment that can help cover the cost of a funeral. Contact the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection or visit their website for detailed information and application procedures.


Crowdfunding or Community Assistance In situations where the deceased or their family may be facing financial hardship, crowdfunding platforms or local community organizations may be able to provide assistance. Crowdfunding campaigns can be set up to help raise funds for funeral expenses, and community organizations or charities may have specific programs to support those in need.

It's important to note that the availability and eligibility criteria for financial assistance can vary, and it's advisable to research and explore the options that best suit your circumstances. Consulting with a funeral director, financial advisor, or social welfare office can provide further guidance on the specific avenues available for financing a funeral in Ireland.