SCI (ARA) - The origin of money may be lost to antiquity, but it's a pretty sure bet that shortly after someone invented cash, someone else came up with the idea of shopping around to get the best deal for their money. As comfortable as Americans are with seeking a deal - witness the thousands of price comparison Web sites - there is one major purchase many still seem unwilling to comparison shop for, and it's a purchase everyone will eventually make.

"Although more people than ever are preplanning their funeral services, for many Americans there is still a sense that this is something they don't want to deal with until they absolutely have to," says Jody Brandenburg of the Dignity Memorial network of funeral, cremation and cemetery service providers. "Yet preplanning is the best way to ensure you get your 'best-cost' funeral - one that carries out your wishes, ensures you've gotten good value for your money and protects your family from making potentially costly decisions during a difficult time."

Comparison shopping for your best-cost preplanned funeral arrangements really isn't that different than shopping around for a good deal on anything else you buy, Brandenburg says. The basics are the same, with a few added considerations.

* First, discuss your desire to preplan with your loved ones. Remember that you have the right to decide for yourself how you would like your funeral to be - and how much you want to spend on it.

* Next, compare prices and levels of service to determine the funeral provider and service options that are best for you. "Your best-cost funeral will be one that carries out your wishes and fits within your budget," Brandenburg advises.

* Personalization is becoming increasingly popular, and making your arrangements in advance ensures your funeral will be the unique, personal service you desire.

* Emotional overspending is a common pitfall for grieving families faced with making cost decisions in the wake of a loved one's death. Preplanning - and even prefunding - your funeral can help protect your survivors from making ill-advised or overly costly spending decisions.

* Price should not be the only consideration when planning a funeral. Just as you might be willing to pay more for a luxury vehicle or luxury hotel stay, be aware there is a wide range of service standards and options among funeral providers.

"Talking about funerals can be a delicate subject for many people," Brandenburg says. "For that reason, making arrangements in advance makes sense to ensure you're getting the best-cost funeral you can have."

To learn more about preplanning, visit www.DignityMemorial.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent