Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience. Alongside the emotional grief, there are practical matters to attend to, and writing and printing an obituary is often one of them. Many families choose to publish an obituary not only to announce the passing but also as a final tribute to the life lived. This guide will walk you through how to print an obituary, discuss how long should an obituary be, explore options for free obituary posting, and detail typical obituary lengths. I’ve helped numerous families navigate this process over the past decade, and I’ll share insights based on that experience, along with official resources from the IRS regarding potential estate tax implications (though this guide focuses primarily on the obituary itself).
One of the first questions families ask is, how long are obituaries? There’s no hard and fast rule, but the length generally correlates with the cost of publication (especially in newspapers). Traditionally, obituaries ranged from a brief death notice to a more extensive life story. Here’s a breakdown:
How long should an obituary be really depends on your budget and how much information you want to share. I’ve seen families create beautiful, moving tributes within 150 words, while others opted for more extensive narratives exceeding 500 words. Consider what truly captures the essence of your loved one.
Regardless of length, most obituaries include these core elements:
Traditionally, obituaries were primarily published in newspapers. This remains a common practice, but it can be expensive. Newspaper obituary costs vary widely depending on the publication, the length of the obituary, and whether you include a photograph. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $500 or more. Here’s a general idea:
| Obituary Length | Estimated Newspaper Cost |
|---|---|
| Brief (50-100 words) | $50 - $150 |
| Standard (150-300 words) | $150 - $300 |
| Extended (300+ words) | $300 - $500+ |
To print an obituary for use in a newspaper:
Fortunately, there are numerous options for free obituary posting online. These platforms allow you to share the news with a wider audience and often offer features like guest books, photo galleries, and the ability to share the obituary on social media. Here are some popular choices:
When using these platforms, be mindful of privacy concerns. Consider what information you are comfortable sharing publicly.
To help you get started, I’ve created a free, downloadable obituary template in Microsoft Word format. This template provides a basic structure and formatting to guide you through the writing process. It includes placeholders for all the essential elements discussed above. Download the Free Obituary Template Here
Using the Template:
While this guide focuses on the obituary itself, it’s important to be aware of potential estate tax implications. The IRS provides detailed information on estate taxes on their website: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/estate-taxes. The estate tax exemption is quite high (over $13 million in 2024), so it only affects a small percentage of estates. However, if the estate is large, it’s crucial to consult with an estate planning attorney and tax professional.
Beyond the factual information, consider these tips for writing an obituary that truly honors your loved one:
Writing an obituary is a deeply personal process. Take your time, gather your thoughts, and focus on creating a tribute that reflects the life and legacy of your loved one. Whether you choose to print an obituary in a newspaper, post it online for free obituary posting, or both, remember that it’s a way to share their story and celebrate their life with those who knew and loved them. Understanding how long are obituaries and how long should an obituary be will help you make informed decisions based on your needs and budget.
Disclaimer: I am not a legal or financial professional. This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney or tax advisor for advice specific to your situation.