Dallas Morning News Obituary Guide: Costs & Submission Steps
What to Expect When Publishing a Dallas Morning News Obituary
When a loved one passes, the Dallas Morning News obituary becomes a public way to celebrate a life and share funeral details. The paper offers several formatting options, from brief notices to full-page tributes, each with its own price tag. Understanding the fee structure before you start can prevent surprise invoices and help you plan a fitting memorial.
Breaking Down the Costs
The newspaper’s pricing generally follows a tiered model. A basic text‑only notice—usually up to 50 words—starts around $250, while adding a small photograph can add $75 to $100. If you need more space for a longer narrative, each additional line of copy often costs between $15 and $20. Full‑page obituaries, which include multiple photos and a detailed biography, typically run from $600 to $800, depending on the page size and placement.
- Text‑only notice (up to 50 words): Approx. $250
- Photo addition (single 2×2 in.): +$75‑$100
- Additional lines (per line): +$15‑$20
- Half‑page tribute: $450‑$550
- Full‑page tribute: $600‑$800
These figures are typical as of the latest publicly available rate sheet; exact amounts may vary based on seasonal promotions or special editions. It’s always wise to request a current price list from the obituary desk before finalizing your design.
Gathering the Essentials Before You Submit
Preparing the content in advance streamlines the process and reduces back‑and‑forth with the newsroom. Here’s a quick checklist to keep on hand:
- Full name of the deceased (including maiden name, if desired)
- Birth and death dates
- Brief biographical sketch (career, hobbies, community involvement)
- Names of surviving family members you wish to mention
- Funeral or memorial service details (date, time, location, livestream links)
- Preferred charities for donations
- High‑resolution photo(s) in JPEG or PNG format
- Contact information for the person authorizing the notice
Having these items ready not only speeds up the submission but also ensures the final printed piece reads smoothly.
Submitting Your Obituary: Step‑by‑Step
The Dallas Morning News offers both online and offline submission routes. Below is the most common workflow for families who prefer the digital path.
- Visit the obituary portal: Go to the newspaper’s dedicated obituary page and click “Submit an Obituary.”
- Create an account or log in: You’ll need a valid email address; the system will send a verification link.
- Enter the required details: Fill in the fields from your checklist. The form will prompt you for word count and photo uploads.
- Preview the layout: The portal generates a draft showing how text and images will appear on the page. Adjust spacing or wording as needed.
- Review the cost estimate: A breakdown appears before you pay. You can add or remove lines, photos, or extra pages at this stage.
- Make payment: Payments are accepted via credit card or electronic check. A receipt is emailed immediately.
- Confirm publication date: Choose a print date at least three business days after payment; same‑day publication is possible for an extra fee.
- Receive the final proof: The newspaper will email a PDF proof 24 hours before printing. Verify all details, then give the green light.
If you prefer a paper form, you can call the obituary desk at (214) 555‑1234, request a printable template, and fax or mail the completed form with your payment.
Timing Is Crucial
Most families aim to have the notice appear within a week of the service. The Dallas Morning News typically requires a minimum of 48 hours for online submissions and 72 hours for mailed forms. For holidays or special editions, allow additional lead time, as the newsroom’s schedule can fill up quickly.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Even with careful preparation, a few hiccups are common. Here are some tips to keep things smooth:
- Photo resolution: Use at least 300 dpi; low‑resolution images can appear pixelated in print.
- Word‑count limits: Exceeding the chosen tier will automatically trigger extra charges—double‑check your draft.
- Spelling of names: Verify every name, especially middle initials and suffixes (Jr., Sr., III).
- Deadline awareness: Set a personal reminder a day before the newspaper’s deadline to avoid rush fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I submit an obituary?
For a standard notice, aim to submit at least three business days before the desired print date. If you need a full‑page tribute or have a tight timeline, contact the obituary desk directly; same‑day publishing is possible for an additional surcharge.
Can I make changes after payment?
Yes, but only until the proof is approved. Once you give the final sign‑off on the PDF proof, the newspaper cannot edit the content without incurring another fee.
What if I need to cancel or postpone the notice?
Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours before the scheduled print date, though a small administrative fee may apply. If you need to postpone, you’ll typically be charged the difference if the new date falls on a higher‑priced edition.
Are there discounts for veterans or non‑profit organizations?
The Dallas Morning News occasionally offers reduced rates for veteran families or charitable notices, but these are not guaranteed. It’s best to ask the obituary staff when you request the price list.
