How to Make Your Own Funeral Arrangements
When a loved one dies, family members and friends are often left to make decisions about the cost and expense of funeral arrangements.
More and more people are now planning and making their own funeral arrangements and even paying for them in advance.
This article will serve as an outline if you are one of those people who would like to lift the burden and stress off of friends and family members and make your own funeral arrangements.
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Instructions
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Think about what specific items you would like and compare prices at several different funeral homes. Once you have made the decision on what you would like, write down your preferences and give your family members and/or your attorney a copy. Do not list your preferences in your Last Will and Testament because a Will is not usually read until after the funeral.
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Consider where your remains are to be buried. It is in your best interest to buy a cemetery plot before you actually need it. Doing so lifts the burden on family members of having to rush around to buy a cemetery plot at a place they may have never even seen. If you do buy a cemetery plot in advance, tell your friends and family members where.
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Choose a funeral provider. Often times people select a funeral home or cemetery because it is close to home or perhaps has served your family in the past. It is best if you shop around rather than risk paying more than necessary for their goods and services. Law requires a funeral director to show you a price list for caskets and urns before showing you the actual items. Be sure you ask for the total cost of merchandise as well as the funeral services. Many funeral homes offer packages which may cost less than purchasing individual items and services. Again, make sure you are provided with an itemized list.
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Decide whether your funeral will be influenced by your religious or cultural traditions. Will it be elaborate or simple, public or private. Where there be a burial or cremation. Will your body be present at the funeral. Will there be a viewing or visitation and if so, will the casket be open or closed.
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Tips & Warnings
Ask the funeral home what happens to the money you have pre-paid? States have different requirements for handling prearranged funeral funds.
Ask if you can cancel the contract if you change your mind.
If you move out of state, find out what the cost is to transfer your prepaid funeral plans.
If you don't pre-pay for your funeral arrangements, keep in mind that prices may go up over time and the funeral home may close or change ownership.
