How to Submit an Obituary

Writing and submitting an obituary is one of the final acts of remembrance a family can offer a loved one. Obituaries help inform the public of someone’s passing, while also honoring their life, legacy, and the impact they had on others. They often include biographical details, key accomplishments, and information about services or memorials.

 

If you’re wondering how to submit an obituary, the process can vary depending on where you want it published. Families can submit obituaries through local newspapers, national publications, funeral homes, or online platforms. Many people also have questions about cost, formatting, and where to post an obituary for free.

 

It’s also important to understand the difference between an obituary and a death notice. A death notice is usually a brief, factual statement placed by a funeral home, while an obituary is more detailed and personal, often written by family members or loved ones.

 

Knowing where and how to publish a thoughtful obituary can help ensure your loved one is remembered in a way that feels meaningful and appropriate.

 

Where to Submit an Obituary

There are three main ways to submit an obituary: through a newspaper, an online platform, or a funeral home. Each option has its own process, cost structure, and audience reach. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right approach for your family and community.

 

Submitting an Obituary to a Newspaper

Newspapers remain a traditional and respected way to publish obituaries. If you’re wondering how to submit an obituary to the local newspaper, you’ll usually need to contact the paper directly or work through a funeral home. Most newspapers charge a fee based on the obituary’s length and whether photos are included.

 

Some newspapers also require verification from a licensed funeral home before publishing the notice to prevent fraudulent or inaccurate submissions. Because of these requirements, it’s helpful to plan ahead and check submission guidelines early in the process.

 

How to Submit an Obituary Online

Families often choose to post obituaries online because it’s affordable, easy to share, and reaches a broader audience. If you’re unsure how to submit an obituary online, many platforms offer step-by-step instructions and flexible options, from free memorial pages to customized, permanent listings.

 

Some online platforms allow you to submit directly, while others work in partnership with newspapers to offer combined print and digital publication. Legacy.com, for example, lets families create a custom obituary and submit it for print in major newspapers across the U.S. and other countries.

 

U.S.-Based Newspapers and Platforms for Publishing Obituaries

• Legacy.com – Submit obituaries to local and national newspapers across the U.S., Canada, the UK, Australia, and more. 
• The New York Times 
• The Washington Post 
• Los Angeles Times
• Chicago Tribune

These outlets give families the ability to craft a thoughtful obituary while also ensuring it reaches the people who knew the deceased across different regions.

 

Submitting an Obituary Through a Funeral Home

Many families rely on funeral homes to help manage obituary submissions. A funeral home can guide you through the writing process and submit the obituary to newspapers or websites on your behalf. Some funeral packages even include obituary placement in a local paper or offer discounted rates for publication.

 

If you’re working with a funeral director, be sure to ask about included services and any additional costs. They can simplify the process and help ensure your loved one’s obituary is accurate, respectful, and published where it will be most meaningful.

 

How Much Does It Cost to Submit an Obituary

One of the most common questions families ask is how much does it cost to submit an obituary. The answer depends on where and how the obituary is published. Both newspaper and online submissions come with different pricing models, and knowing the options can help you plan within your budget.

 

Newspaper Obituary Pricing

Newspaper obituary costs vary by publication, location, and the length of the notice. Local newspapers typically charge between $100 and $500, depending on word count and whether a photo is included. If you choose to publish in a national newspaper, such as The Washington Post or The New York Times, expect significantly higher rates. Obituaries in these outlets can exceed $1,000 for longer entries or those with additional formatting.

 

It’s important to check with the publication directly or ask your funeral director for a pricing estimate before submitting.

 

Online Obituary Pricing

Online platforms often provide a more flexible and affordable way to honor your loved one. Some websites allow you to publish basic obituaries for free, while others charge a one-time fee, usually ranging from $50 to $200, depending on customization options.

 

Posting online also gives families the ability to update the obituary over time, include photos and videos, and easily share the memorial with friends and relatives through social media. If you’re working with a funeral home, obituary publication might be included as part of the service package, so it’s always worth asking.

 

Compared to traditional print, online options are generally more cost-effective while still offering a respectful and far-reaching way to remember someone.

 

Are Obituaries Necessary

Obituaries are not legally required, but they continue to be a valued tradition for many families. If you’re asking whether obituaries are necessary, the answer depends on personal preference and the family’s wishes. While not mandatory, obituaries offer both emotional and practical value.

 

They serve as public announcements of a loved one’s passing and as heartfelt reflections of their life. Obituaries also help connect extended family, friends, and community members who may otherwise be unaware of the death or funeral plans.

 

Why Do People Publish Obituaries

Families often choose to publish obituaries for several reasons:

• To inform the public of the individual’s passing 
• To share details about the funeral, memorial, or celebration of life 
• To create a lasting tribute that captures who the person was 
• To contribute to genealogical records and family history

 

Some families prefer alternative memorials, such as digital memory books or community ceremonies, instead of formal obituaries. If you’re considering options outside of a traditional service, you can learn more about those choices in our guide on memorial services.

 

Ultimately, an obituary can be a deeply meaningful way to honor someone’s life and bring people together in remembrance, but it is never a requirement.

 

How to Write an Obituary Before Submission

Before you can submit an obituary to a newspaper, website, or funeral home, it helps to write a clear and thoughtful draft. A well-written obituary honors your loved one while providing important details for family, friends, and the broader community.

 

Key Elements of an Obituary

If you’re preparing an obituary for the first time, these are the essential elements to include:

• Full name of the deceased (including maiden name, if applicable) 
• Age and place of residence 
• Date of death and, if appropriate, the cause of death 
• A brief biography, including key milestones, family roles, and accomplishments 
• Funeral or memorial service details, including time, date, and location 
• A closing tribute, which may include a quote, message, or donation request

 

Some families may opt to publish a shorter death notice instead. A death notice is a basic announcement that confirms the death and provides logistical details, without the personal stories or reflections included in an obituary.

 

Example Obituary Format

Below is a sample obituary template to help guide your writing:

John Doe, 78, of Springfield, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2024. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, known for his kindness and humor. A memorial service will be held at [Location] on [Date]. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to [Charity].

 

You can personalize this template by including meaningful stories, achievements, or quotes that reflect your loved one’s life and values. A heartfelt, well-structured obituary ensures your tribute is both memorable and informative.

 

Final Considerations on Submitting an Obituary

Taking the time to thoughtfully prepare and submit an obituary can be a meaningful part of honoring a loved one’s memory. Before making a decision, it’s important to review all your options, including where to publish the obituary, potential costs, and whether free or online alternatives fit your needs.

 

At MERI, we support families navigating end-of-life decisions with resources that ease both emotional and financial burdens. Whether you’re preparing an obituary or exploring alternatives to traditional services, we’re here to help.

 

If you’re exploring alternatives to traditional funerals, you may also want to learn about our Whole Body Donation program. Choosing to donate your body to science can help advance medical education and research while easing financial strain by covering all funeral and cremation costs.

 

With the right tools and planning, you can honor your loved one in a way that reflects their life and legacy.