The fact that we're all going to die is an uncomfortable subject, but it's one Clark thinks is periodically worth discussing. The reality is that most people pass away without telling their family what should happen at the time of their death. This oversight puts loved ones in a "mission impossible" scenario where they have to consider funeral arrangements while coping with the emotions of bereavement. Unfortunately, the funeral industry has figured out how to make extra dough during such situations. But did you know that by joining a funerary or memorial society like
Funerals.org you can save up to 75 percent off? You simply pay a fee and make arrangements in advance. Some people may think that talking about this topic is somehow not respectful of the deceased. That's part of the psychology of field -- funeral homes profit off making it "bad" to talk about money at such a difficult time. But by planning early, you don't force your family to play a guessing game. And you also save money for your heirs.
Clark knows that most people won't ever get around to joining a funerary society. So he also recommends visiting
EverestFuneral.com to help save money with funerals. With Everest, you can hire a concierge to negotiate on your family's behalf with funeral home directors. Or you can simply pay $30 and they'll do local price comparison shopping for you. On a related note,
The Boston Globe reports that going to a home owned by Service Corporation International -- the biggest funeral company in the world -- will cost you more than going to an independently owned one. The independents charge up to 25 percent less than SCI establishments. Finally, there's always the option of
organ donation to save a buck. Clark plans to donate his vital organs at the time of death to those who are in need of replacements. As part of that arrangement, his body will then be cremated free of charge. Clark says that if marveling at the fact that he's willing to take his thrifty ways to the grave is what it takes to get
you to investigate some options, well, his work is done!