PREPLANNING
Why should I consider preplanning my funeral?
When you make the choice to preplan your funeral you are giving your family peace of mind and relieving a tremendous emotional burden. Not only will they know exactly what your wishes are, they will also avoid the potential problem of over-spending at the time of your death. Finally, when you prepay for your funeral it will eliminate the fear of how they will pay for your funeral.
When is the right time to plan?
You should complete your plan when circumstances are ideal for you. Circumstances are ideal when you have:
- Your Health
- Your Income
- The ability to plan decisions calmly
Will my family have to pay any additional money at the time of my death?
When you pay for your funeral plan in advance, the Goods and Services are guaranteed at the current cost, and your family will not be required to pay any additional money for them. Any accommodation items listed in the Cash Advance section (charges that are for third-party entities) will be billed at the current day costs. However, the monies originally set aside are applied and your family is only responsible for any shortfalls.
How do I know my money is safe and will provide for my funeral?
Federal and state laws prohibit a funeral home from receiving and utilizing funds for services that have not yet been rendered. All preneed funeral plan funds are required to be placed into a fund (typically a trust, annuity or insurance product) which is heavily regulated by governmental agencies. These funds are not payable to the funeral home until the time of death.
What if the Funeral Home goes out of business?
Because your plan is secured by a third party, it can be easily be transferred to another funeral provider of your choice.
What if I die before I completely pay for my funeral?
It depends on the type of funding vehicle you choose. If you choose to fund with an insurance product, your funeral may be paid in full at no additional cost to your family. With other funding options, all deposits made and any accrued interest, are subtracted from the current cost of the funeral, and your family is only responsible for the difference.
Can I make my payments with my credit card?
Yes, you may pay with a credit card with certain plans. You cannot, however, make a single or lump sum payment with a credit card.
What if I move out of this area?
Your plan is transferable to another funeral home. For details, contact the funeral home where you purchased the plan.