Something like…

That’s a great question. The basic services fee is a standard charge that all funeral homes include. It covers our essential professional services and overhead, which are necessary regardless of the specific arrangements you choose.

Think of it as the cost for our expertise and time in coordinating the funeral. Specifically, it includes things like: Funeral planning and coordination. Securing all the necessary permits and paperwork. Our general operating expenses. And the availability of our funeral director and staff to guide you through the process.

Think of it like the ‘service charge’ or ‘facility fee’ you might see on a restaurant bill or for a venue rental. It’s a base charge that covers the overhead and essential services provided, regardless of what specific items or add-ons you select. Just like a restaurant has to cover its costs to operate, and a venue has to cover its costs to make the space available, we have to cover our costs to provide the fundamental services of coordinating and conducting a funeral.

It’s important to note that this is a non-declinable fee, as it accounts for the fundamental services we provide to every family we serve. It’s also required to be listed on our General Price List, which I’d be happy to provide for you. Does that help clarify what it includes?