Although it is something most of us prefer not to spend much time thinking about, you should take some time to create a funeral plan. Don’t rely on family members and loved ones to know what your wishes are with regard to your funeral. By creating a written plan, you spare loved ones additional grief and prevent any potential conflict regarding your wishes.
Your funeral plan should be separate from your will as your will may not be read for days after your death. Once written down, be sure to leave a copy with the executor of your estate, your estate planning attorney, and anyone else you feel needs a copy. Although each plan will be unique, consider including the following information in your funeral plan:
- How the funeral is to be paid for — life insurance proceeds, a trust set p by you, a pre-paid funeral service.
- Who is to be in charge of the details. Be sure to name alternates in case your first choice is unable to take charge.
- Whether you want to be buried or cremated
- What funeral home you wish to handle the cremation or burial
- What container you wish to be used for the burial or for your ashes
- Details about a ceremony if you want one. Be specific. For example, do you want a viewing? Open casket? Video display? Wake? What type of flowers?
- Who you wish to be the pallbearers if relevant
- Where you wish to be buried or what you want done with your ashes
- If you wish a marker, include details such as what you want written on the marker
- Any specific information you want included in the obituary
Of course, should you have any additional questions or concerns about estate planning or elder law issues, you can contact our law firm for guidance.
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