Dallas Morning News Obituary Costs: What You Need to Know

When a loved one passes, the Dallas Morning News remains a popular choice for sharing a tribute that reaches friends, family, and the wider community. But before you hand over a draft, it helps to understand how the paper structures its pricing, what options are available, and which deadlines you’ll need to meet. Below is a practical rundown of the typical costs, formats, and submission details you’ll encounter when placing an obituary in Dallas’ flagship newspaper.

Why Choose the Dallas Morning News for an Obituary?

The newspaper circulates across the Dallas‑Fort Worth metroplex, both in print and online, giving your announcement a broad audience. Its obituary section is searchable on the site for months after publication, and many families appreciate the archival stability that comes with a print record. In addition, the paper offers a range of layout styles, allowing you to tailor the notice to personal taste and budget.

Understanding the Basic Pricing Structure

Dallas Morning News obituary pricing is tiered based on length, placement, and whether you opt for print, digital, or a combination of both. The baseline fee usually covers the first 100 words and a single black‑and‑white photograph. Anything beyond that—extra lines, additional images, or color printing—adds incremental charges. Most families find the base package sufficient for a concise tribute, while larger families often upgrade for a more expansive memorial.

Print Options: From Standard to Premium

• Standard Print (single column, B&W) – Starts around $350 and includes up to 100 words plus one photo.
• Extended Print (additional columns, up to 250 words) – Typically ranges from $450 to $600, depending on the number of extra lines.
• Premium Layout (color photo, custom fonts, larger headline) – Prices often fall between $600 and $800, reflecting the enhanced visual treatment.
• Fold‑out or Special Feature – For families seeking a larger tribute, a half‑page or full‑page insert can cost $1,000 or more, with pricing adjusted for color and additional imagery.

All print options are subject to a final proof review; the newspaper will contact you to confirm the layout before the scheduled publication date.

Online and Digital Add‑Ons

Most families also want an online presence that can be shared via email or social media. The Dallas Morning News offers a digital obituary page that mirrors the print version and stays live for at least 12 months.

• Basic digital posting (text only) – roughly $150.
• Digital with photo gallery – adds $50–$100.
• Lifetime memorial archive (extended online storage) – an additional $75–$125, depending on the length of the archive.

These digital services can be bundled with the print package for a modest discount, often reducing the overall cost by 5‑10 percent.

Submission Requirements and Deadlines

Getting your obituary published on time hinges on meeting the paper’s content and timing guidelines. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Word limit – 100 words for the base price; each additional 50‑word block incurs a surcharge.
• Photo specs – JPEG or PNG, minimum 300 dpi, max 5 MB.
• Deadlines – For same‑day or next‑day publication, submissions must be received by 10 a.m. local time. Standard deadlines (one‑day lead) close at 5 p.m. the day before the intended print date.
• Proofing – A PDF proof is emailed for final approval; changes after approval may delay publication and incur extra fees.

Payment Methods and Refund Policy

Payment can be made via credit card, debit card, or electronic check. The newspaper typically requires a 50 % deposit at the time of submission, with the balance due before the obituary goes to press. If you need to cancel, refunds are generally prorated based on the work already performed; a full refund is rare once the proof has been approved.

Tips for Getting the Most Value

To stretch your budget while honoring the deceased, consider these practical suggestions:

• Consolidate information – Keep the tribute concise; use a separate memorial page online for longer biographies or tributes.
• Combine print and digital – Bundling often unlocks a small discount and ensures the notice lives beyond the print edition.
• Plan ahead – Submitting a few days early gives you time to tweak the wording and avoid rush‑fees.
• Use high‑resolution photos – A clear image reduces the need for costly retouching services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How far in advance should I submit an obituary?

A: Ideally at least three days before the desired publication date. This window allows for proof review and any necessary edits without incurring rush charges.

Q: Can I add a tribute video to the online obituary?

A: Yes. The Dallas Morning News accepts short video clips (up to 2 minutes) for an additional fee, usually around $75, which are embedded on the digital memorial page.

Q: Are there discounts for veterans or first responders?

A: The newspaper occasionally offers promotional rates for military families or public service members, but these are not guaranteed year‑round. It’s best to ask the obituary desk about any current offers when you call.

Q: What if I need to make a correction after publication?

A: Minor typographical fixes can be addressed in the next edition for a modest fee (often $50). Significant changes may require a new obituary placement and will be billed at the standard rate.