Preplanning Checklist
Preplanning Checklist
Dealing with the loss of a loved one can be overwhelming to your surviving family and friends, but pre-planning your funeral service can help them better deal with the stress of losing someone.
Choose the Type of Service You Want
Pre-planning your funeral service can not only ease the burden on your loved ones, but it helps ensure your final wishes are honored. While some families struggle with making those final decisions after losing someone, your family won’t have to worry with making those hard choices.
- Choose what funeral home and director you would like to use to handle your service.
- Decide what type of service you want (traditional, cremation, donation, etc…).
- If you choose a traditional service with burial, decide where you want to be buried.
- Meet with the funeral director and look at your options for caskets and urns.
- If you decide you want to be buried, choose clothing options.
- Look at options for a location to hold your service (funeral home, religious facility, sentimental building, graveside).
- What type of flowers do you want? Do you want flowers, or would you rather donations be given to a particular charity or a charity of one’s choice?
- Who will be a part of your service? You should decide on pallbearers and even ask them personally. You should also decide who you would like to officiate or participate in your service.
- Choose which songs you would like played at your service.
- Write an obituary or make notes about information you would like to be included in your obituary.
Make Your Wishes Known to Those You Trust
Once you've made your wishes known, it's important to share them with someone you trust. Having important information organized and accessible can help your family when the time comes.
- Make sure someone knows where to find your will and other important documents.
- Share your funeral preferences with your family or the person you would like involved in making arrangements.
- Keep important account and financial information organized in a secure location.
- Consider discussing legal and estate planning matters with an appropriate professional.
Explore Your Payment Options
Preplanning does not require you to pay for funeral arrangements in advance. Some families choose to make financial arrangements ahead of time, while others prefer simply to document their wishes.
Our staff can explain the available funding options, answer your questions, and help you make decisions that are comfortable for you and your family.
