Funeral planning is a significant step you can take to help your loved ones after passing away. This takes the burden off of them in a trying time, as well as relieves the financial difficulties that come with a funeral. The below guide explains what you should know about making arrangements in advance.

3 Tips for Pre-Arranging Your Funeral 

1. Explore Your Options  

Most funerals contain three components: preparing the body, holding the ceremony, and interment. How you decide to approach each stage is your choice. Some people want to have a viewing or visitation ceremony, which means they’ll undergo embalming before the service. Others forgo certain practices—for example, at a Quaker funeral, the remains typically aren’t present during the ceremony.

Some Jewish followers believe the funeral should occur within one day of a person’s passing, or as soon as possible to accommodate for travel needs. Muslim and Greek Orthodox sects traditionally oppose cremation. If you have any questions about the options available to you, talk with a funeral director. 

2. Discuss Your Wishes

You should discuss funeral planning with your loved ones. Even though the conversation is challenging, it will ease your mind and ensure you consider all the possible options. At the same time, your loved ones will appreciate that you are sharing the decision with them. It shows trust and that you have a concern for their feelings. 

3. Keep Records of Arrangements

To make sure your family and loved ones observe your wishes, clearly outline your plans in writing. Work with a funeral director to ensure the document addresses everything your family must organize for the arrangements. Be specific about what matters most to you—for example, if you want a burial or cremation—but leave room for the family to adapt to the situation. A conservative approach can ease your loved one’s burden if they must alter some details, such as the flower choice.

If you want loved ones to follow your wishes, you must also make these documents accessible. Most people keep their funeral planning paperwork with their will and explain to their next of kin how to locate these items. If you purchase services in advance, you should communicate these points to family members and keep organized records.

Preplanning your funeral can relieve the emotional strain of your departure. If you want to learn more about how to prepare, talk with a compassionate counselor at Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home. Located in Sparta, WI, they offer a wealth of information online and provide for immediate assistance. To speak with a director about funeral planning, call (608) 269-6666.