While it may be a somber thought, organizing funeral plans now can spare your loved ones from having to deal with more emotional distress than necessary when the time comes. With all the details figured out beforehand, you’ll have peace of mind that they won’t have to worry about practical or logistical matters. Here’s what you should think about when making your arrangements. 

What to Include in Funeral Pre-Planning

1. The Final Disposition Method

You may prefer burial, cremation, or entombment. If you know your wishes ahead of time, you can select a cemetery, columbarium, or a meaningful place where your relatives can scatter ashes. You can also select a casket, urn, or another vessel. 

2. The Memorial Service

Whether you want a large, celebratory service or a solemn, intimate one, put the program together so that your loved ones have fewer questions to answer when they’re grieving. Involve the family and any close friends in the funeral plans so that they have something to contribute when it’s time.

3. Documentation 

Make sure all potentially important paperwork is completed and stored safely. This includes a marriage certificate, insurance policy, investment and retirement accounts, obituaries, and any specific requests for funeral arrangements. A will should also be kept on file and updated periodically after its creation to account for new circumstances. 

4. Notifications

Record the names and contact information of family members and close friends who should be among the first to know when you have passed. They will want to time to start grieving and perhaps help with carrying out the funeral plans.

5. Prepayment

It’s important to know what the arrangements will cost. An insurance policy may not cover every potential expense. Since inflation could raise the prices in the future, cover them now while they’re cheaper. Create a contingency plan in the event your desired products are no longer available at the time of your passing. In some instances, Medicaid can help with the cost of funeral pre-planning. It’s possible that the Social Security Administration and the Department of Veteran Affairs could offer financial assistance as well. 

Herman-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Center of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, offers many services to aid with funeral plans. They provide personalized attention to each family that comes to them for support, helping them prepare with grace, compassion, and attention to detail. To begin planning your loved one’s funeral, peruse their services online or call them at (715) 423-5460.