"I want to preplan my funeral, but I have so many questions…"

More and more people are discovering that preplanning their funeral is a sensible, caring thing to do. It is estimated that survivors are asked over 100 questions in the first 12 hours after a death occurs. When you preplan your funeral, you make decisions at your leisure, considering all your choices carefully.

But people still have questions about the process, and especially about the decision to prepay the arrangements. After all, we live in a mobile society, and we often find ourselves living far from the funeral home that helped us with our planning. Let's take a look at some of the most important preplanning concerns.

Q: What are the advantages of preplanning?

A: It might be better to consider whether there are any disadvantages. Quite simply, preplanning is one of the most loving, considerate things you can do for your family. If you died tomorrow, who would make your funeral arrangements? How much should they spend? Do you want your family making complex decisions at a most difficult time? Preplanning relieves them of that burden.

If you prepay your funeral, there are two more important advantages. First, you protect your family against unexpected expenses, and second, you make decisions at your leisure, after careful consideration.

Of course, prepaying your funeral in full guarantees the accumulated interest plus the principal will cover the cost of price increases over time.

Q: I have a will. Isn't that enough?

A: No. Wills are usually read after the funeral, so your choices may not be known until it's too late. Family members might forget your choices, or disagree with them. A prearrangement document assures you that everyone will know what you want, and that your wishes will be carried out.

Q: How do I start?

A: There are several good ways to begin the preplanning process, and they all start with becoming informed. First, call us. Our licensed funeral directors can assist you regarding all your pre-need requirements and options. We'll explain exactly what types of commemorative choices are available, and even help you create your own unique form of remembrance. Then, you can do further research, if you wish, and make your decisions at your leisure. When you're ready, we'll carefully record all your choices, and keep them on file for the future.

Q: What if I change my mind?

A: Over time, things change. You may reconsider some of the options you selected, and wish to add or delete a few. Since we have your decisions on file, we can help you with any modifications you care to make.

Even though you are recording your final wishes, they are far from final. You can change them any time you like.

Q: Are arrangements transferable?

A: Yes. When you prepay your funeral, your investment can be protected in several ways. We can deposit your money in a regulated funeral trust, subject to very strict provincial laws. Or, you might choose preneed insurance. Either way, we work with funeral homes in other provinces and countries to assure you receive the service you desire. Most people return home to be buried even if they move. But our desire is to work things out to the satisfaction of the family.

Any of these alternatives will protect you, and all are capable of being modified if your situation changes. But remember that a preneed contract is, in fact, a contract, so ask every question you can think of before you sign an agreement.

For many people, planning their funeral is as important as planning their investments, insurance coverage, children's education, or retirement. We plan so that we may secure peace of mind. Funeral preplanning is an important step in that direction.