When a loved one dies or you are concerned about pre-planning your own funeral, you may have questions about the process, particularly the burial. There are many considerations when it comes to interment such as costs and if you want to establish a burial trust. Before you settle on arrangements, ask these four questions.

Questions to Answer About Burials

1. What Is a Burial Trust?

A burial trust can be set up in advance to cover funeral expenses and relieve loved ones of the burden of paying for arrangements. Funeral homes and cemeteries can help you establish a burial trust, which is typically funded with cash, bonds, or life insurance policies. Burial trusts can be revocable, meaning you can change or revoke it before you die, or irrevocable, which signifies the money cannot be touched unless it is to pay for funeral services.

2. How Do I Choose What Happens to Remains?

Your three options are burial in the ground, cremation, and entombment. Interment, or ground burial, means your remains are placed in a casket and then buried underground in a plot purchased for you. Entombment typically refers to your body being placed in a mausoleum while cremation entails vaporizing your body into ashes, which are then given to family to either keep in an urn or spread somewhere per your wishes. Your choice for your remains should be laid out in writing so there is no dispute when you are gone.

3. How Are Plot Costs Calculated?

Cemeteries base their pricing structure on a few factors such as plot size and location. Sizes vary from cremation urn plots to family tombs. The more attractive your plot area the higher the cost will be for it. Other fees that are typically included are opening and closing of the burial plot as well as maintenance to keep the area clean and clear. Cemeteries can show you examples of their tiers.

4. Are There Limitations on Grave Markers?

Each cemetery has its own regulations on what is allowed. Before spending money on an elaborate headstone, ask what is allowed in the plot you have purchased. Since headstones come in various sizes, colors, and materials, check what space limitations are and if there are rules on how large yours can be. Some places only allow flat markers made from bronze or granite, especially if the cemetery is considered a memorial park. You can always purchase through the funeral home or cemetery themselves to ensure your choice is acceptable.

Serving residents in Stratford, CT, for more than a century, Adzima Funeral Home is the family-owned establishment to turn to when you need compassionate funeral services. This funeral home has been a staple in the community for generations, offering 24-hour assistance with funeral planning, burials, cremations, and more. To learn more about their burial trusts, call (203) 375-2200. For more information, visit their website.