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Choosing funeral planning in advance is one of the kindest things you can do for your loved ones. When the time comes, they will have the comfort of knowing that you will receive a meaningful service without the stress of planning while grieving. Here are some common missteps to avoid.

Common Mistakes When Funeral Planning

1. Underestimating Costs

Keeping funeral planning within a budget that feels comfortable is essential. It is helpful to understand all the components of a funeral service, including flowers, memorial keepsakes or urns, burial, headstones, and so on. Funeral homes or insurance policies may offer pre-planning packages that cover some of these expenses, but not all. Make sure you understand what you will be getting with pre-paid services before you decide.

2. Not Having Enough Information

Funeral planning can be fairly easy, especially if you want only a simple service. But most people aren’t experts in this area and may overlook crucial details. Let a professional at a local funeral home help you go through the process to make sure that all aspects are taken care of for your loved ones when the time comes.

3. Not Communicating With Family

funeral planningOnce you’ve made your arrangements, don’t overlook sharing them with family, and don’t just put wishes in a will. Communicate with your spouse and children about the details and why you have chosen them, including the name of your preferred funeral home. Keep a clearly labeled file just for funeral arrangements, among other important papers.

4. Not Paying in Advance

Funeral costs will only rise, so it makes sense to pay in advance for what you can. The best way to prepay funeral expenses is to purchase a funeral insurance plan, rather than paying a funeral home directly. Choose a reputable company with a good rating and reputation, and make sure the policy includes the following:

  • Allowances for Medicaid if you think you may qualify.
  • A list of expenses from your funeral home.
  • A state guarantee to protect you if the insurance company dissolves or defaults.
  • Funds that are structured to grow with inflation.
  • Allowance for up-front cash advances for unexpected expenses.

5. Buying Burial Space But Not Pre-planning a Service

Many people do purchase a niche in a columbarium for ashes or a plot in a cemetery, but neglect to pre-plan the funeral. Places of internment may or may not be associated with a funeral home, so don’t assume that having a plot means the service is taken care of. Likewise, planning a service but not purchasing interment space is a mistake too, especially if you prefer to be buried.

 

For funeral planning in northern Kentucky, choose Middendorf Funeral Home. Their experienced, professional, and compassionate team can help with pre-planning all aspects of your memorial. They have served the area since 1860, with five generations of family tradition. Visit the website to get started with pre-planning, or call (859) 341-7800 to schedule an appointment.

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