If you are thinking ahead about your own final wishes or those of a loved one, it will be advantageous to gain some additional knowledge so you are able to make informed decisions.
After reading this blog you will be able to answer the question, “What is funeral preplanning” as though you are an expert.
So what is funeral preplanning?
Preplanning is the process of making end-of-life arrangements in advance of the need. It allows individuals and families to outline the details of their funeral or cremation, plan a service(s), and select merchandise. There is an option to pay for the arrangements in full or to set up monthly installments.
Continue reading to learn more about the process involved, benefits of preplanning, costs involved, and ways of funding your prearrangement.
The Pre-Planning Process
To start, let’s assume you will be preplanning (prearranging) your own final wishes.
Here is an overview of what to expect.
When you initially meet with a planning professional, he or she will get to know you and find out how you would like to be remembered. From there you will be guided through a series of steps.
First, you will be asked whether you prefer traditional burial or cremation. The services the funeral home offers and what they entail will then be explained to you.
Next, you will be shown products based on your choice of final disposition. Once you have made your selections and reviewed pricing, any outstanding details will be finalized.
Afterward, you will be presented with a contract to sign.
What Does a Preplan Include?
A typical prearrangement covers the primary costs associated with the funeral and/or cremation.
Most plans include the following:
- Funeral director’s professional services
- Visitation / funeral / memorial service
- Transportation
- Care of the deceased (dressing/embalming)
- Casket or cremation container
- Burial vault
- Cremation
- Cremation urn
Depending on the funeral home, other expenses such as flowers, stationery, decorations, and keepsakes can be listed as prepaid costs.
What is Not Included in a Prepaid Funeral?
Products and services provided by third parties are not usually part of a contract.
However, there may be an option to set money aside to cover some of these items which are listed below.
- Death certificate copies
- Clergy/celebrant honorarium
- Cremation permitting
- Police escort fees
- Musicians
- Newspaper notices
- Jazz Procession
Benefits of Preplanning
Shelley MacGill’s Story at Camino del Sol Funeral Chapel.
In order for you to fully grasp the value of preplanning, we will take a closer look at some of the benefits it offers.
Personal Beliefs
Preplanning is the best way to ensure one’s final wishes are known and will be honored.
Without clear direction, those left behind could make decisions that are contrary to the departed’s preferences.
And while a next-of-kin, family member, or friend will have only the best of intentions, they will have to basically guess what rites and rituals the deceased would have wanted.
Those who take care of their final affairs ahead of time can plan a final send off that will be just as they envisioned.
Benefits for Those Left Behind
Most of us would do anything for those near and dear to our hearts. Preplanning is the best gift we can give someone we love.
Having to make important decisions immediately following a significant loss won’t be easy for those we leave behind. Prearranging will help them to better navigate their grief so they can focus on celebrating a life well lived.
Another benefit of preplanning is that it reduces the number of time sensitive decisions loved ones will be required to make during a difficult and highly emotional time.
This alleviates any uncertainties, problems or differences, which can occur among those making the final arrangements.
Financial Benefits
Many people choose to prearrange because it prevents a financial burden from being placed on loved ones at the time of their passing.
The stress that accompanies the pressure of fulfilling another person’s wishes may lead to feelings of regret that results in emotional overspending.
Fortunately, the majority of funeral homes offer guaranteed plans that allow families to lock in prices for goods and services at today’s rates.
This guards against inflation and provides financial protection for surviving family members.
Funding
There is a small percentage of families who pay 100% upfront for their preplans. However, most individuals purchase policies that require premiums be paid for a predetermined amount of time.
The money paid into the plan is secured via an insurance policy or placed in a trust account.
A policy is in effect as long as payments are up to date. The benefit goes directly to the funeral home.
A prepaid funeral or cremation should not be confused with final expense insurance which pays a flat amount to a beneficiary.
Final expense insurance doesn’t protect against inflation, won’t pay out immediately, and can’t specify how the funds should be spent.
Final Thoughts
Whether it be for higher education, a wedding or a new home, we are accustomed to anticipating and saving money for significant milestones.
Planning and setting aside funds for a funeral or cremation is no different.
My hope is that in addition to knowing what preplanning is, that you also realize why it is so important.
If you are interested in prearranging, an Advanced Planning Consultant at Camino Del Sol would be happy to answer your questions.
You can begin the prearrangement process online here or you can give us a call at (623) 584-6299 today.
We will work within your means to create a final send off that will preserve your memory and legacy.
