FAQ

Some people, especially those without relatives or friends nearby, want the assurance that their funeral will represent their beliefs and lifestyle. Others wish to assist their family and friends by taking care of all the arrangements in advance.

In today’s society where people travel often and move from one home to another, some people prearrange and prepay their funeral to insure a final place to return to regardless of where death may occur. Another common reason people prepay their funeral is to spend down their assets prior to entering a nursing home. These are but a few of the more common reasons people give us.

By involving them in the process of preplanning your funeral arrangements, you will give them an opportunity to share their respect for you. And, you will eliminate any doubt in their minds about what you want when the time comes. Also, by prepaying your funeral expenses, you eliminate a major debt that your estate would be required to pay before making gifts and bequests to your family. This may increase the value of their inheritance from you.

Most mental health professionals believe that it is good to acknowledge death as reality of life. Discussing it openly can provide a healthy outlet for relieving fears and anxiety.

Actually, there are many reasons why prepaid funerals are frequently less costly. One such reason is, in the absence of prior arrangements, surviving family members have a tendency to emotionally overspend in their grief of the moment.

Yes. Your wishes about the type of service, preferences for music and flowers, casket selection and burial are very important. You can make the arrangements now and make payment when you have the money available.

There are two types of prepaid funeral trusts. If you elect a revocable trust, you may change your mind and get your money back. If you select an irrevocable trust, you can’t cancel it but you may change funeral homes or transfer funds if you wish.

Funeral plans and prepaid funds can be transferred to a local funeral home anywhere in the United States at the time of death. Of course, if you established a revocable trust, you may cancel it and open a new one where you relocate.

Talking about funerals is difficult for some people. Yet, as difficult as it may be now, it is likely to be even more difficult for them when a death has occurred. By openly discussing your funeral arrangements now, family members are spared the need to make important choices and decisions at a time of grief and sorrow.

Notify several family members or friends that such an agreement exists and where it can be found. The funeral home can provide informational copies to the people you designate.