There were 657 deaths registered in Kilkenny in 2016 with two thirds of people underestimating the cost of funerals.
A basic Irish funeral can cost anywhere from €2,950 to to €7,500 and potentially a lot more depending on individual requirements. Royal London report that lengthy probate delays are resulting in families having to unexpectedly pay funeral bills in advance of a life insurance pay-out, where there is no remaining legal policy owner - putting a financial strain on family members when a loved one passes away.
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