Pre-Arrangement Process

Funeral Pre-Arrangement Process

Dying is one of the few events in life that is certain to occur, yet one we are not likely to plan for. Should we really spend more time preparing for two weeks away from work than we do our last days on Earth?

This section will help you make decisions for the future by explaining what pre-arrangement is, what is involved, and what options are available.

The Basics of Planning

Here's a break-down of the process:
  • Set goals
  • Review limitations
  • Look at available options
  • Weigh the pros and cons of each option
  • Talk to others about the best options
  • Arrive at a final decision
In the case of funeral pre-arrangement, another two important steps are involved:
  • Write out your plan with as many details as possible
  • Send your plan to the funeral home and provide a copy to your executor
There are two ways for you to complete your funeral pre-arrangement plan.

When is the Best Time to Pre-Plan Your Funeral?

The best time to begin making your prearrangements is now, while you're thinking about it. While some people in their 40's and 50's may think it's too early to preplan, people who do say that prearranging their funerals is smart financial planning and gives them added peace of mind knowing they aren't leaving this burden to family members. By taking time now to collect cost information and calmly making choices related to your own funeral arrangements, you'll be protecting your family against the stress of having to make these decisions at a time of extreme emotional stress. This way you can carefully choose specific items you want and need ... and pay for them now. Prepaid Investments through funeral homes allows families to fund their funerals in advance through different investment vehicles.

The Six Common Reasons for Prearranging Funerals

Today, more individuals and families are making the decision to prearrange their funerals than ever before. Because of the factors such as inflation, fewer extended family members living close by, and other changes in our society, planning your own funeral can make a lot of sense. In a recent survey, these were the most common reasons people gave for prearranging their own funerals:
  1. Lets your wishes be known
  2. Reduces stress for friends and family at an already emotional time
  3. Saves money
  4. Guarantees your family will never have to pay more for your funeral — no matter what happens with inflation
  5. Shows you care
  6. Relieves your loved ones of the financial responsibility

Pre-Planning Checklist

So, you're thinking about making your final arrangements? This checklist will help you make sure every detail is tended to.

The who, what, when, and where of your funeral
  • Prepare a list of people who should be contacted in case of a medical emergency or death
  • Write an obituary or write down information needed for an obituary
  • Decide where the obituary should appear
  • Choose the type of service you would like (burial or cremation)
  • Choose Your Details:
    • Cemetery lot location
    • Casket type/Cremation urn type
    • Vault/Sectional crypt
    • Type of service: religious, military, other
    • Your pallbearers
    • Your music selection
    • Your flowers
    • Readings at service and who will read them
  • Choose the charity, church, or organization you would like donations to be made to
  • Choose your funeral and visitation location
Now that you've figured out the details, it's time to make sure they're carried out. This list will help you assign responsibility for each task on the previous list.

Using the Online Pre-Planning Tool

This website features Pre-Arrange Online, a step-by-step interactive form that can be used to record your end-of-life plan and send the completed form to our staff for safekeeping. You'll be asked to create an account with a username and password so you can login at any time to complete or change the plan.

Turn to the Professionals

Many people are more comfortable making these decisions with funeral professionals. If you would like us to help, call us or send us an email using the Contact Us form. 
Share by: