What are third-party fees?

Third-party fees are paid by your funeral director on your behalf and may be covered by the funeral plan in full, in part or not at all.  

Unavoidable third-party costs are the cremation or burial fees and doctors' fees (where applicable).  The officiant or minister's fee is sometimes included in a funeral plan.  

Any shortfall in third-party fees will need to be paid to the funeral director or plan provider from your estate or by your representative (e.g. family memberl) at the time of the funeral.

Doctors' fees

Doctors' fees are for two medical certificates and applicable for a cremation service only. 

Most plan providers choose not to include the doctors' fees as they aren't always required. Doctors' fees do not apply in Scotland or if the death is referred to the Coroner, e.g. when the death is sudden or unexplained.  

The cost is currently £82.