What's the difference between a funeral home and a cemetery?

What's the difference between a funeral home and a cemetery?

SUMMARY

• Why these are two separate businesses, even when they look connected

• What each one is actually responsible for

• Do you have to use both?

• Questions to ask before assuming they're the same

What's the difference between a funeral home and a cemetery?

This trips up more families than almost anything else, and it's easy to see why — the two are often discussed in the same conversation, sometimes even on the same day.

They are two completely separate businesses

A funeral home handles the care of your loved one — transportation, preparation, the service itself, cremation if chosen, and all the surrounding documentation and logistics. A cemetery handles the final resting place — the plot, the opening and closing of the grave, the headstone or marker, and ongoing grounds maintenance.

Some companies own both a funeral home and a cemetery under one name, which adds to the confusion. But even then, you're typically signing two separate contracts for two separate sets of services.

Do I have to use both?

No. You can use a funeral home for the service and cremation, and an entirely different cemetery — or none at all, if you choose cremation with no burial. You're never required to use a cemetery owned by the same company as your funeral home, even if it's suggested.

What does each one actually charge for?

A funeral home charges for things like transportation, preparation, use of facilities for a service, and the cremation or burial process itself. A cemetery charges separately for the plot or niche, the opening and closing fee, and often a fee for setting a headstone or marker. These costs are not included in a funeral home's pricing, no matter which funeral home you choose.

What should I ask before assuming they're connected?

If you're planning a burial, ask directly: is the cemetery part of this company, or a separate business? Am I free to choose any cemetery I'd like? What does the cemetery charge separately from the funeral home? Getting clear answers up front avoids surprises later.

If you have questions about how this works for your family's situation, call Covenant Funeral & Crematory at 423-485-0911. We'll walk you through exactly what you're responsible for and where.