FAQ: Frequently asked questions about increases in funeral fees

Why are the funeral fees increasing? 

The Espoo Parish Union is preparing to increase funeral fees to ensure funeral services and the maintenance of cemeteries in the future as well. The funding paid by the Finnish central government to the Evangelical Lutheran Church has been significantly reduced in recent years, which is directly reflected in the economy of the funeral services. The reduction is approximately 19-20 million euros at the national level. 

Isn’t the Finnish central government responsible for funeral services? 

In practice, funeral services are a statutory task of parishes, supported by the Finnish government. As the amount of the government support decreases, parishes must cover a greater share of the costs themselves. 

The costs of funeral services cannot be covered by the church tax, as that would mean church members end up paying for the burials of those who do not belong to the Evangelical Lutheran Church. In Espoo, for example, only about half of the population are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. Therefore, the costs of burial are funded through state taxation and partly through burial fees paid from the estate of the deceased. These fees are charged for burial plots and services related to the burial itself.

However, activities related to Christian ceremonies at cemeteries—such as services held in chapels—are fully funded by the parish for its members, and this is covered by church tax revenue.

To which fees will the increase apply? 

The changes under preparation apply to the fees of burial spots and funeral services. Any potential increases will only apply to services related to burial and the maintenance of cemeteries. 

By how much will the fees be increased? 

The exact percentage has not yet been decided. The matter will be first discussed in the Joint Parish Board of the Espoo Parish Union and then in the Joint Parish Council of the Espoo Parish Union. Once the decisions have been made, the price list and the changes will be published on the website well before they enter into force, and this FAQ section will also be updated accordingly. 

How does the situation in Espoo compare to other parishes? 

Several parishes and parish unions around Finland have already raised prices or are preparing similar changes. The Espoo Parish Union monitors similar developments in Finland, which are a result of a decrease in central government transfers and an increase in costs. 

Who decides on funeral fees? 

The Joint Parish Council of the Espoo Parish Union decides on the amount of the fees based on a proposal of the Joint Parish Board. After the decisions have been made, the new prices will be published openly on the website and at the service points of the Parish Union. 

What do the total costs of burial comprise? 

Funeral fees consist of grave redemption fees and funeral service fees. The grave is redeemed for 25 years in connection with the burial. If someone is buried in the same burial spot within this period, the burial right must be extended so that it is valid for 25 years from the last burial. The funeral service fees consist of booking the event, opening, filling and upkeeping the grave, and the caretaker service.

Is the income from funeral fees used for other operations? 

No. The funeral fees only cover the costs of the funeral services, such as the salaries of personnel, the procurement of machinery and equipment and the upkeep of areas. Parishes do not make a profit with these fees. 

How will ordinary Espoo residents see the change? 

If the increases are approved, they will mainly be visible in the burial spot price lists. The content of the services remains unchanged. The parishes of Espoo will continue to provide funeral services with the same care and dignity as before.