My job in Belgium: How much does an undertaker earn?

What is your job?
I am an administrator/funeral undertaker for Jaeken’s Funeral Undertakers in Peer (Limburg province). I am mainly responsible for the care and laying-out of the deceased, I notify the commune or town authorities of the death, I take care of the administration and the invoicing. The paperwork and the funeral service is also my responsibility. I print the invitations for the funeral meal and the death-notice letters, discuss the funeral service with the relatives and prepare the service and accompanying PowerPoint presentation for the funeral. I am also the driver of the hearse and I do various other practical things, like mow the lawn, wash the cars...

Do you like your job?
I really like my job. It is very varied and I have great colleagues. There are two managers and sometimes there is a work experience student. It is also something in which I am interested. Funeral grants are very interesting and I’m also interested in inheritance rights. The families that we deal with here are often very grateful for our help which makes us feel appreciated. I like to help people.

Would you change your job for a higher salary?
No, I would like to build on my career here, with the ambition to become an independent funeral director in the future.

What exactly do you earn?
I earn €2,100 gross and I take home €1,600 net. I don't have any fringe benefits but I am very satisfied with my salary. I can easily make ends meet.

How many hours a week do you work?
38 hours.

Do you save?
Yes, every month I can put aside a good amount.

Do you think of your pension?
Yes, I save for my pension. Mostly for the fiscal advantages. I know in the back of my mind that, in the future, we will have to work longer.

What is your biggest expense?
My mortgage and my car insurance.

What can you definitely not spend money on?
Things like Christmas decorations. I will never buy a Christmas tree or other such items. To me, that’s like throwing your money away.

What do you gladly spend money on?
Holidays, going out with friends, new clothes.

What would you do it you won the lottery?
I would build a new funeral home with enough space on the upper floor to live in. Big enough for my best friends also to live there.