Many individuals take comfort in the funeral pre-planning process. By putting your affairs in order, managing finances, and establishing your funeral directives in advance, your loved ones will have the opportunity to celebrate your time on earth with clarity, respect, and assurance that your wishes are properly honored. If you’re interested in funeral pre-planning, here’s a list of key elements to start the process. 

Top Funeral Pre-Planning Priorities

1. Last Will & Testament

To minimize confusion, it’s best to write out a last will and testament with the help of an estate planning attorney so your descendants and loved ones are aware of how you’d like your assets to be handled. In addition to writing out a clear plan for managing your property—whether it be real estate, life insurance, or treasured heirlooms—write out your funeral directives separately. This way, your family will have a full understanding of not only how to handle your possessions, but the manner in which you’d like to be laid to rest. 

2. Choosing a Funeral Director

Reach out to friends, neighbors, and members of your community for recommendations on a trustworthy funeral director in your area. Meet with this individual so you can begin the funeral pre-planning process with the help of a compassionate and knowledgeable ally. Beyond writing down your funeral directives for your family, a funeral director can walk you through memorial service and disposition options and prices. This way, you can determine your preferences and set aside the necessary budget.  

3. Disposition 

After meeting with a funeral director, you’ll have a better understanding of your disposition options and whether a traditional burial in a cemetery or cremation is your preference. Should you elect for a traditional burial, you can visit cemeteries, select your plot, and begin the payment process in advance to reduce the monetary burden on loved ones and ensure your wishes are observed. 

Brater-Winter Funeral Home, owned by Jolene and Robert Winter, is known throughout Cincinnati, OH, and the Tri-State area for serving residents with compassion and respect. If you’re looking for assistance with funeral pre-planning, call today at (513) 941-1940 to schedule a meeting with their esteemed funeral director, Jack Wenning, who has over 48 years of experience. For more information on this funeral home’s commitment to helping clients celebrate life and manage grief with dignity, respect, and community spirit, visit their website.