How to Preplan a Funeral: Your Guide for a Stress-Free Funeral Planning Process

Preplanning a funeral is an important and beneficial process that can relieve loved ones from the burden of organizing and making decisions during a difficult time.

Through careful consideration and organization, individuals have the opportunity to outline their wishes and preferences for their own funeral and to make arrangements for the various elements of the service.

This article is part of a bigger funeral planning series; if you have the immediate need to plan a funeral service for a loved one, we encourage you to read our intro guide on how to plan a funeral.

Funeral preplanning involves selecting a funeral service provider, deciding on the type of service, planning the specific elements of the funeral, and considering financial aspects.

By preplanning, individuals can ensure their service is tailored to their own values and desires, providing a meaningful event for family and friends in the future.

Why Preplan a Funeral

Peace of Mind

Preplanning a funeral provides peace of mind for not only the individual but also their family and friends. By making end-of-life decisions, the person can ensure that their final wishes are respected and understood. Preplanning prevents any confusion or disagreements among loved ones, allowing them to focus on providing support and comfort to each other during difficult times.

Financial Benefits

There are potential financial benefits to preplanning a funeral. By making arrangements in advance, an individual can lock in current prices for services and products, potentially avoiding future inflation.

Furthermore, some funeral homes offer payment plans, allowing the person to budget and make their payments gradually over time. This can help ease the financial impact on families, reducing any stress they might feel due to unexpected expenses when the time comes.

Reduced Burden on Loved Ones

One of the most significant reasons to preplan a funeral is to alleviate many of the burdens placed on family members during an emotional time. End-of-life planning involves making many decisions, such as:

• Whether to opt for embalming or cremation
• Type of funeral service (e.g., full service at a funeral home, graveside service, or a DIY ceremony)
• Selection of participants and attendees
• Reading, prayer, song, and speaker choices

By pre-planning, individuals can reduce the number of decisions that loved ones have to make, allowing them to focus on grieving and remembering the departed. By ensuring their final wishes are known, families can also find comfort in the fact that they are honoring their loved ones as they wanted.

Getting Started with Preplanning

Setting Goals

When preplanning a funeral, it’s essential to identify your goals.

Begin by considering your preferences for the funeral service, such as the type of ceremony, location, and any specific customs or traditions you want to be included. This will help you establish a clear vision, making it easier to coordinate with a funeral home and convey your wishes to your loved ones.

It’s also important to think about the end-of-life arrangements you prefer, such as burial or cremation, and any specific memorialization options.

By establishing these goals, you’ll create a comprehensive plan that reflects your wishes, providing guidance and peace of mind for your loved ones during a difficult time.

Gathering Information

Once you have a clear understanding of your goals, gather the necessary information to help execute your preplanned funeral. Some key elements to consider include:

• Funeral home: Research and choose a funeral home that aligns with your preferences, budget, and the services you require. Inquire about their preplanning options and any associated costs.
• Funeral service: Outline the details of the funeral service, such as the desired format, any religious or cultural elements, and the people you wish to have involved, like a celebrant or speaker.
• End-of-life arrangements: Decide on specific arrangements, such as whether you prefer embalming or cremation, and how you want your remains to be handled (burial, scattering of ashes, etc.).
• Costs: Obtain quotes for the various services and products you’ve chosen, such as the funeral home fees, casket or urn, and cemetery or crematorium services. This will help you prepare a realistic budget.

Create a checklist to ensure you’ve covered all essential aspects of the preplanning process. By doing so, you can be confident in the decisions you’ve made, and your loved ones will have a detailed and clear plan to follow when the time comes.

Remember to store your preplanned funeral information in a safe, accessible place and inform your loved ones of its location. Providing them with easy access to this information will help alleviate stress and ensure your wishes are fulfilled.

Choosing a Funeral Service Provider

Considerations and Comparisons

When preplanning a funeral, it’s important to choose a funeral service provider that meets your needs and preferences. Start by researching local funeral homes to understand their offerings and pricing structures. Compare different funeral homes based on available services, facilities, and fees. Keep in mind the Funeral Rule, which requires funeral directors to provide itemized price lists for services and products, so you can make informed decisions.

Consider the following factors when selecting a funeral home:

• Location: Choose a funeral home in a convenient location for family and friends.
• Facilities: Evaluate the size, ambiance, and accessibility of the funeral home.
• Services: Consider the range of services provided, such as embalming, cremation, or burial.
• Fees: Look at the overall cost and the breakdown of individual service fees.

Meeting with Funeral Directors

Once you have narrowed down your choices, it’s time to meet with the funeral directors. As professionals, they are knowledgeable about funeral planning and can guide you through the process.

During meetings with funeral directors, take the opportunity to:

• Ask questions: Inquire about available services, facilities, fees, and policies.
• Discuss preferences: Clearly communicate your specific wishes and desires for the funeral service.
• Get a written estimate: Request a quote that includes all the services and products you’ve discussed, as per the Funeral Rule.

By following these steps and maintaining a confident, knowledgeable, and neutral tone, you will be able to effectively preplan a funeral and find the most suitable funeral service provider.

Types of Funeral Services

Traditional Funeral

A traditional funeral service typically includes a viewing or visitation, followed by a funeral service at a church, funeral home, or another location. The service may feature eulogies, readings, prayers, and music. After the service, the deceased is usually transported to a cemetery for burial. Cremation can be an alternative to burial, with a cremation ceremony being held instead.

Memorial Service

A memorial service is held to honor the memory of the deceased without their physical presence. In this case, the body has usually been cremated, but the service can also be held after a burial. With a more casual and personal atmosphere, memorial services may include speeches, music, and sometimes a meal or reception. The location of the service can vary, from a funeral home or a place of worship to a more unconventional venue that held special meaning for the deceased.

Graveside Service

A graveside service, also known as a committal service, takes place at the burial site. Family and friends gather around the graveside for a brief ceremony, which often includes readings, prayers, and a eulogy. This can be a standalone service or follow a traditional funeral or memorial service. A graveside service is suitable for both burial and inurnment of cremated remains.

Green Burial

A green burial, sometimes called a natural burial, is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial and cremation practices. The focus of a green burial is to minimize the environmental impact while still honoring the deceased. This involves using biodegradable materials, such as wicker or wood caskets, no embalming, and no vaults or grave liners. Green burials often occur in designated natural burial grounds or sites that conserve the natural habitat and allow for sustainable land management.

Funeral Service Elements

Caskets and Urns

When preplanning a funeral, one of the essential elements to consider is choosing a casket or urn. If the deceased will be buried, a casket is required, which comes in various materials, such as wood or metal. For those who opt for cremation, an urn becomes necessary to hold the ashes. Both caskets and urns are available in a wide range of styles and prices, so it’s crucial to select one that reflects the deceased’s personality and fits the budget.

Flowers

Flowers play a significant role in funeral services, providing a comforting and respectful atmosphere. When preplanning, consider the types of flowers and arrangements that hold meaning for the individual and their family. Working with a florist experienced in funeral arrangements is recommended to create the desired atmosphere and convey one’s sentiments.

Music and Readings

Selecting appropriate songs and readings for a funeral service helps to personalize the tribute and provide solace to the bereaved. Consider the deceased’s musical preferences, spiritual beliefs, and any passages they found meaningful to make their service truly unique.

Some elements to consider:

• Hymn or song selections: These can be live performances or recordings
• Readings from religious texts, poetry, or literature
• Instrumental or choral music to set a specific atmosphere

Eulogies and Officiants

Lastly, choosing an officiant to conduct the funeral service and selecting someone to deliver a eulogy are crucial aspects of preplanning. Consider reaching out to a clergy member, celebrant, family member, or friend to officiate the ceremony. When designating a eulogist, select someone who can genuinely express the essence of the deceased’s life and communicate his/her impact on others.

Eulogy preparation can benefit the speaker and result in a more meaningful tribute:

• Encourage the eulogist to collect stories, thoughts, and memories from others
• Suggest a balance of humor and heartfelt sentiments
• Provide the speaker with guidelines on the time limit for the eulogy

In conclusion, preplanning a funeral service involves several essential elements, such as choosing a casket or urn, organizing flowers, selecting music and readings, and appointing eulogists and officiants. Taking the time to preplan these aspects can help ensure a meaningful, personalized tribute that comforts the bereaved and honors the deceased’s memory.

Financial Planning for a Funeral

Understanding Costs

Funeral costs can vary significantly depending on the services chosen, location, and arrangements. A typical funeral with viewing and burial costs around $7,640-$8,755. It is essential to consider various factors such as the type of service, casket, burial plot, and other elements while estimating the costs. Having a clear understanding of these expenses will enable you to make informed decisions and budget appropriately for preplanning your funeral.

Prepaid Funerals

Prepaid funerals allow individuals to pay for their funeral services in advance, often at today’s prices, giving them the opportunity to manage their financial legacy effectively. By entering into a prepaid funeral agreement with a chosen funeral home, one can lock in the costs and relieve their loved ones of the financial burden later. Some benefits of prepaid funerals include:

• Price security, as inflation will not affect the funeral cost
• Peace of mind for family members, as they will not have to worry about the financial aspect
• Personalization of services according to individual preferences

However, it is crucial to evaluate the credibility of the funeral home and the terms of the prepaid funeral contract before making a commitment.

Life Insurance Policies

Life Insurance policies can also help cover funeral costs by providing a death benefit to beneficiaries upon the policyholder’s death. There are different types of policies available:

• Term Life Insurance: provides coverage for a specific period of time (e.g., 10, 20, 30 years).
• Whole Life Insurance: offers lifetime coverage with an investment component that grows over time.
• Burial Insurance: specifically designed to cover funeral costs, also known as final expense insurance.

It is essential to carefully consider the policy terms, amount of coverage, and premiums before selecting a suitable life insurance policy. Moreover, it’s important to ensure that beneficiaries are aware of the policy and its intended use for covering funeral expenses.

In conclusion, understanding funeral costs, considering prepaid funerals, and exploring life insurance policies can significantly help in financial planning for a funeral, reducing the financial burden on loved ones, and ensuring the memorial service aligns with individual preferences.

Additional Considerations

Selecting a Cemetery Plot or Mausoleum Space

When preplanning a funeral, it is essential to consider the final resting place for the deceased. If you prefer burial, you will need to select a cemetery plot. On the other hand, if you choose entombment, you will need a mausoleum space. Think about your preferences, family traditions, and budget. Also, consider factors such as location, maintenance, and available space for family members in the same area.

Writing an Obituary

An obituary serves as a tribute to the deceased and an announcement of their passing. To honor their memory, gather relevant information, including:

• Full name, age, and date of birth
• Date and place of death
• Surviving family members
• Accomplishments and career highlights
• Funeral or memorial service details

Writing an obituary in advance allows you to ensure accuracy and reflect your personality. You can ask a trusted friend or family member to help, or even seek professional assistance.

Preparing a Reception

Planning a reception after the funeral provides an opportunity for friends and family to gather and share memories. Some factors to keep in mind when planning a reception include:

• Type of event (formal or casual)
• Location (funeral home, church hall, private residence, etc.)
• Food and beverages (catered, potluck, or restaurant)
• Guest management (invitations or open to all)

Take time to plan a reception that reflects your wishes and makes your loved ones feel comfortable.

Requesting Death Certificates

Death certificates are vital documents needed for various legal and personal purposes. When preplanning your funeral, consider the number of certificates that may be required for:

• Closing bank accounts and financial transactions
• Life insurance claims
• Property transfers
• Pension or veterans benefits

Inform your family about the necessity of requesting these certificates at the appropriate time to avoid delays in settling your affairs.

Legal and Practical Aspects

When preplanning a funeral, it is essential to consider the legal and practical aspects. This section covers the following sub-sections: State Laws, Transfer and Refund Policies, and Estate Planning.

State Laws

Each state has specific laws governing funeral arrangements and final disposition of the deceased. Factors to be aware of may include rules for burial, cremation, embalming, or the scattering of ashes.

It is crucial to familiarize yourself with your state’s regulations, ensuring that your funeral plans are in compliance with the law. Here are a few examples:

• Burial: Some states require a burial vault or grave liner to enclose the casket.
• Cremation: Certain states may have guidelines on where ashes can be scattered and the type of container used for storing cremated remains.
• Embalming: Regulations in some states dictate whether embalming is mandatory, depending on the time between death and viewing or burial.

Transfer and Refund Policies

When preplanning a funeral, you may encounter situations such as moving to another location or needing to switch funeral homes. Understanding transfer and refund policies is essential to safeguard your investment. Key points to consider:

• Transferring pre-arrangements: Confirm whether the funeral home permits transferring pre-arrangements to another location, and if there are fees related to the transfer.
• Refund policy: Understand the funeral home’s refund policy, including possible cancellation charges and conditions.
• Guaranteed prices: Find out if the funeral home offers guaranteed prices, meaning the agreed-upon service costs will remain constant over time.

Estate Planning

Estate planning is an essential, yet often overlooked, part of end-of-life preparations. Tips for considering estate planning in funeral preplanning:

• Will or trust: Specify your funeral wishes in your will or trust to ensure they are carried out as intended.
• Executor or trustee: Assign a responsible and trusted person as the executor or trustee, responsible for handling your funeral arrangements per your instructions.
• Financial considerations: Ensure adequate funding is available for your funeral expenses by setting aside funds, purchasing funeral insurance, or investing in a payable-on-death account.

Properly addressing these legal and practical aspects will ensure that your funeral preplanning meets regulatory requirements and reflects your intentions, providing peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones.

Finalizing and Sharing Your Funeral Plan

Reviewing and Adjusting Your Plan

After gathering all the necessary information and making decisions about the funeral arrangements, it’s essential to periodically review and adjust your plan.

This ensures that your plan remains up-to-date and reflects your current wishes. It’s particularly important to review your plan when significant life events occur, like marriage, the birth of children, or retirement.

Maintaining an organized and updated plan will ease the burden on your loved ones when the time comes to make final arrangements for your funeral.

To ensure your plan remains relevant, you should:

• Set a specific date to review your funeral plan annually or biennially
• Update the plan according to your changing preferences and life circumstances
• Keep a record of the changes made to your plan, including any modifications, additions, or deletions

Communicating with Loved Ones

Once your funeral plan is finalized, it’s crucial to share it with your family and loved ones. This ensures that they will be aware of your wishes and can follow your plan when the time comes.

Communicating your plan with your loved ones also gives them the opportunity to ask questions, seek clarification, and provide input to ensure your funeral captures your essence and celebrates your life in a meaningful way.

Here are some steps to effectively communicate your funeral plan:

1. Share your plan with key individuals: Identify the people who will be responsible for making your funeral arrangements, such as your spouse, children, or close friends, and share your plan with them.
2. Discuss your wishes: Have an open conversation with your loved ones about your funeral preferences, the reasons for your choices, and the details of the plan. This allows them to understand and respect your wishes.
3. Provide access to relevant documents: Ensure your loved ones have access to necessary documents related to your funeral plan, such as wills, prepaid funeral or burial plans, and any legal or financial papers.
4. Designate a point person: Appoint someone you trust to be responsible for coordinating with the funeral home and ensuring your plan is executed accurately.

By following these steps, you can be confident that your funeral plan will be carried out according to your wishes, and your loved ones will have a clear understanding of your preferences and any necessary arrangements.

Frequently Asked Questions