One of the most painful experiences we encounter in life is the death of a loved one. The grief can be overwhelming, leaving the survivor(s) in shock and disbelief. By pre-planning your funeral, you can help alleviate some of the stress. By discussing your final wishes with your spouse/family, and having a plan in effect, the survivors do not have to worry about making the final arrangements, especially when grief may hinder making good decisions.
Although this is a difficult subject to discuss with your loved one(s), planning ahead will help them when they need it the most. It also ensures that your wishes will be carried out. Issues such as organ donation should be discussed so that your family is aware of what you wish to have happen. The more that you plan beforehand means less that your loved ones have to deal with in the event of your death.
When planning your arrangements, you must first decide on how much money you can afford and are willing to spend. If you decide to pre-pay for your arrangements, ask whether or not interest will be paid on the money, and if so, whether the funeral home or your estate receives the interest. Compare the rates at various funeral homes before making your decision. It is also important to make sure that you are dealing with a reputable funeral home, that will in all likelihood be in business for years to come. Consider all aspects of your service, such as whether or not you will be using the funeral home's chapel or your own church, and whether their chapel will be suitable for your plans. Before signing the contract, make sure that all goods and services are specifically stated, in order to preclude further costs at the time of the funeral.
Clearly state your intentions of what you wish to have happen to your remains. If you wish to become an organ donor and/or donate your body to science, it is important that your next of kin is aware of this request. Make sure that your wishes are in writing, either by filling out the donor card on your driver’s license, or simply by stating these wishes in writing and signing the document. As well, discuss your "living will" with your next of kin in the event of an accident. This will allow your loved ones to carry out your intentions in the event that you are not capable of doing so, i.e. coma.
If you decide to be buried, you may want to consider purchasing your burial plot beforehand. If you choose to buy your plot in advance, you need to talk to your loved one(s) about their wishes. You may decide that buying adjoining plots will best suit your needs. Before you make your purchase however, ascertain whether or not you will be able to sell or transfer ownership of the plot(s) in the event that you change your mind for whatever reason.
Once you have discussed your plans with your loved one(s), make sure that it is documented. Make sure that all your papers, i.e. current will, insurance policies, etc. are together, and that your next of kin is aware of where these are stored. Make sure you include your insurance broker's name and number, as well as any other phone numbers that your next of kin may require at the time of death. This will enable your loved one to easily access the needed information.
Talk with your loved one(s) about your wishes, and also discuss what policy or policies you currently have. By providing your next of kin with all the information they will need to access, you will be providing them with the peace of mind they will need in their time of grief.