The most important reason people pre-plan for a funeral is peace of mind. People decide to pre-plan for a variety of reasons, but the most important reason is to make it easier for family members so that they know your wishes ahead of time rather than having to make decisions on your behalf during an extremely emotional time.

It’s a common misunderstanding that it is expensive to pre-plan a funeral, but in reality, there is no cost at all unless you decide you want to pre-pay—and pre-payment is never required.  Pre-planning can make the whole process easier because you have time to ask questions, consider options and make decisions based on your family’s needs and values. 

The first step is meet with your funeral director. The meeting typically takes about an hour and gives you the opportunity to discuss your wishes in as much or as little detail as you like. And you don’t have to make all of the decisions at one time.  You may find it becomes much easier to make certain decisions after meeting with your funeral director who can provide more information.

Another important benefit to pre-planning is that you get to look at different alternatives and consider different pricing options.  Many people find it helpful to get an idea of costs in advance at a time when they are not overwhelmed by emotion and can think clearly. 

Some people choose to pre-pay once they have decided on their arrangements and there are a variety of reasons for doing so. Pre-payment eliminates the stress of coming up with the funds during a difficult time; it eliminates overspending by keeping family from purchasing unnecessary additions; it can lock in prices for merchandise or services that will most likely be more expensive in the future; and it can help provide a sense of control over an inevitable cost. According to Elder Law Answers, prepaying a funeral can be a good way of spending down assets in order to qualify for Medicaid. 

When you pre-pay the funeral home, the funds will be held in trust. All funds for advance funeral planning are made payable to an independent financial partner which holds it in trust for the purchaser. This allows the purchaser to transfer the contract to any other funeral home. Advance funeral planning is a very smart and safe way to protect your family, your wishes, and your money.

Your funeral director is a great resource as you begin considering these important questions.  And your family will appreciate knowing your wishes so they can avoid confusion and uncertainty when the time comes. You can start the process by filling out our online pre-arrangements form.

Thanks for reading our blog. You can reach out to us, Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory anytime at 1-309-786-5421.