Isn't it simony to ask people to pay for Masses?

[coolduude]

In a recent answer regarding the prayers for the repose of one’s soul, Michelle Arnold said:

It is a longstanding Catholic custom to provide money to religious orders or parishes for Masses to be said for the repose of one’s soul. If you would like to take advantage of that custom, you could start setting aside money for that purpose. (The usual stipend is approximately $10 per Mass.)

To me this sounds as simony (paying for a Mass), though I’m guessing that the stipend is only suggested and not a requirement. Could someone please clarify? Also, if one has no money, but still wants Masses to be said for them after death, what are they supposed to do?

 

[Michelle_Arnold]

“Simony” is the buying and selling of sacraments or other graces offered by God through the Church. Asking for a Mass stipend to pay for materials used at Mass and for the priest’s support is not simony. It is providing a means of living for those whose lives are dedicated to tending the people of God. If a person cannot afford to pay a stipend, it is not required and no priest should refuse a request for a Mass from a poor person. But those who can afford to give should do so.