68 year old, no savings and a complex house situation. How to best prepare and pay for her funeral?

JadeHighland

After having spent over £3,000 on my father's funeral expenses, I am determined to ensure that my mother's funeral (she's currently in decent/good health) does not impose the same financial burden. She is notoriously lackadaisical, I have taken it upon myself to partially address this matter.

In terms of finances, my mother has no savings and earns a modest income. She does own her home; however, there is a peculiar situation where another person's name is on the deed. She added this person's name when she initially acquired the house to assist with the mortgage, which I am told was a common practice back then. This individual has never resided in the house nor contributed to the mortgage payments. Supposedly, there is a court order to remove their name, but the council refuses to take action until my mother settles a substantial council tax debt. It is worth noting that my mother has a tendency to stretch the truth, so I approach this information with caution.

The reason I am telling you this is because when she does pass, she's unlikely to have the housing situation sorted (she doesn't do anything about it) so paying for the funeral out of our own pocket and recouping the funds from the sale of the house isn't going to be a straight forward task. 

I want some advice on the best way to start funding this stuff; whether that be a funeral plan, life insurance etc.

Andy advice will be much appreciated.

Devongardener

There is absolutely no need to pay £3K for a funeral.  We arranged Mums funeral for approx £1000, including a car for the family, undertakers and church costs , flowers and food and drink for the gathering of friends and relatives afterwards.   Of course you or your Mum can taken out a funeral plan.  

As to the situation with the house ownership, why does the council need to be involved?

TELLIT01

I would assume the council has been to court to get a lien on the property until the debt is cleared.

cardriver98

Donate your mum's body for research. No cost at all. Other than transporting it if you live outside of their collection area.  They will have a small funeral when they have finished with the body.