| What is involved in pre-arranging a funeral? |
| Pre-arrangement simply means that you sit down with one of our licensed funeral directors and plan your funeral in advance. This may be done at our office or in the comfort of your home. We will gather biographical information including family, work and education. We will also write down your personal instructions as to the type of service you want, the amount to be spent, and any other details important to you. This information is then put on file until is it needed. This consultation is provided free of charge. |
|
| Is pre-arranging as unsettling an experience as it sounds? |
| Not at all. In fact, most people find that pre-arranging gives them a sense of relief knowing they have spared their families this responsibility at some future time when it would indeed be a disturbing task. |
|
| Why should I consider pre-arrangement? |
Pre-planning allows for thoughtful decision-making without the emotions and confusion that are present at the time of death.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your final services have been thoughtfully planned and your personal wishes properly documented. This assures your that your loved ones will know what you want and relieve the stress of gathering important information and documents and making emotional decisions at the time of death.
Economic: In some cases, surviving family members may make decisions that result in spending more than you consider wise. By arranging details of the funeral in advance, you can prevent this situation.
|
|
| Can funeral services be paid for in advance? |
| Yes. It is an option that many people are taking advantage. Each payment plan option will be explained to you in detail; the choice of plan is yours. Plans can provide a hedge against inflation and do provide for budgeting expenses out of current income where it can more easily be managed. In addition, it allows your loved ones to be free of financial concerns. |
|
| Do I have to prefund at the same time I preplan? |
| No. Many people just want to have their final arrangements known in advance, even decide upon the type of ceremony and casket, without actually paying for these items. Getting your wishes down in writing is the most important thing. That way, there is no confusion about your intentions at the time of your death. |
|
| What if I pass away on while traveling or snowbirding in another state? |
| Call us first. We will make the necessary arrangements with a reputable funeral home in that area. Calling us first will eliminate the additional charges that could be incurred if you call a funeral home in that area before contacting us. |
|
| What types of pre-payment plans are available? |
Funeral Trust Account: A specified amount placed in a special account at the saving institution of your choice. The funds may be deposited all at once or in a series of installments. The interest earned may be paid directly to your or left to accumulate in the account. The interest that is earned must be reported to the IRS as earned income. You reserve the right to cancel this account or have it made irrevocable to protect these funds should a long-lasting illness, SSI or nursing home be a future possibility.
Funeral Insurance: A special insurance policy designed to pay funeral expenses. No medical exam is required and premiums may be paid either in a single payment or installments. Funeral insurance pays dividends that are non-taxable and increase the death benefit. These policies also can be me irrevocable to protect them should a long-lasting illness, SSI or nursing home be a future possibility. |
|
| What if I move? |
| Your funeral can be handled by any funeral home in the country, even it if has been pre-funded with a specific funeral insurance policy. These funds can be redirected to your funeral home of choice. |
|
| I have life insurance. Why should I pre-pay my funeral? |
| Standard life insurance policies may have to be cashed in to pay for extended medical or nursing home care. The funds in a Funeral Trust account or Funeral Insurance are protected for payment of funeral expenses and are not considered part of your income. |
|
| Is prepaying a way for funeral homes to obtain money early and before it is actually needed? |
| No. The funeral homes does not receive any funds until the funeral services occur. The money you prepay is your money, on deposit with the financial institution or funeral insurance company. |
|
| Isn't funeral preplanning used to encourage people to spend more than they would spend at the time of need? |
| No. The stress caused by the death of a love one makes merchandise and service selections difficult and rushed. Preplanning allows you the time and the information you need to make meaningful and informed choices for yourself and your loved ones. |
|
| Are my pre-payed funeral funds secure? |
| Any funds we receive toward a prepaid funeral are placed into an irrevocable account and in accordance with state law are insured. No one can access these funds or cancel the account. By Federal and State law, the funds can only be used to perform the services you selected and withdrawn only at time of death. |
|
