Funeral prearrangements in Quebec: contracts, cremation, burial and checks before signing
Understand what a funeral prearrangement contract can cover, what to compare before paying and how to make sure your family can find your wishes and contract.
Prearrangement or statement of wishes?
A funeral prearrangement is a contract entered into before death for funeral goods or services. Simply writing down your wishes is different. Before signing, identify what is actually prepaid and what remains only a preference.
What to compare
- Included and excluded services.
- Cremation, burial or another lawful option.
- Urn, casket, transport, visitation and ceremony.
- Costs that may remain payable at death.
- Cancellation, modification or transfer terms.
- The business's legal identity and required permits.
Protection of prepaid money
Quebec regulates funeral prearrangement and sepulture contracts. The Office de la protection du consommateur explains contract requirements and how prepaid amounts must be handled.
Make the information easy to find
Tell at least one trusted person that the contract exists and where a copy is kept. Do not rely only on a will that may be read after funeral decisions have already been made.
Cremation vs. burial
Compare complete costs: professional services, transport, container, ceremony, niche or plot, maintenance and taxes. An advertised cremation price is not always the total cost of the arrangements you choose.
Official sources
- Quebec — Funeral arrangements before death
- Office de la protection du consommateur — Funeral services