Being the individual with responsibility for making arrangements when a close family member dies can be stressful and emotional. It is a unique experience every time someone has to take on this responsibility. However, it can be much easier if the deceased has taken time to investigate funeral packages and set up their own plan.
If you choose to make your own plans you have the opportunity to have your wishes carried out precisely. You can make as many of the decisions or as little as you want. You can specify the flowers, the music, the type of casket and how your remains are to be disposed off. Choosing whether to bury, inter or cremate is often the subject of debate and disagreement between family members.
It is not unusual to have a family plot or vault in a graveyard. As the plot or vault belongs to the family, it needs to be a joint decision as to who is entitled to use it. The funeral director can purchase a plot on behalf of the family as part of a plan.
Pre-paid plans are available, or the alternative is to put money into a savings account or insurance policy until it is required. There is the possibility that prices will increase rather than come down before the account has to be paid in full. It is advisable to reassess your costs and arrangements every couple of years.
The contract on a pre-payment plan should spell out the terms and conditions and details of the services agreed. Purchasers can pick and choose the services they are paying for in advance. It is important that the contract also sets out how your cash will be used and protected in the long term.
State regulations govern the sale of funeral packages and how the funds are invested and protected. Before signing up to a pre-payment plan individuals should be familiar with the rules that apply in their home state.
