Why plan ahead?
Funeral arrangements often times take place within 24 hours of the loss
of a loved one. Pre-planning for the funeral allows families that precious time
needed to make decisions regarding funeral options without the emotional stress
related to the loss. The act of pre-planning also allows for one to ease the burden
regarding decisions and to make their personal wishes known.
How do I start?
Starting the pre-planning process can be as easy as your first phone
call. Your funeral director will lead you through the pre-arrangement process.
Do I have to pre-pay?
The most important part of the planning process is just that, planning. You will
be given the option of pre-paying, paying over time, or not paying and just making
your wishes known.
What are the benefits of Pre-paying?
Like the cost of everything, the cost of funeral services go up over time. By pre-paying
the funeral, you will have the peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care
of and that your family will not have to worry about financial matters in their
time of grief.
What happens if I change my mind or I move?
When you pre-pay your funeral expenses, the monies collected may be placed into
a revocable or irrevocable trust. Find out if you can change your mind and cash your money out at any time.
If you move, is the money fully transferable to any funeral home? If you have gone
on Medicaid and the money was placed in an Irrevocable trust, the money may not
be cashed out. But if you move away, the account should be transferable to funeral home
in your area.
Why should I pre-plan when applying for SSI/Medicaid?
By pre-planning during the application process for SSI/Medicaid you will
have the opportunity to plan and pay for a funeral out of your own funds, ensuring
that the funeral services are to your exact wishes. If you wait until the funds
are exhausted and you are relying on the Medicaid benefit to pay for your funeral,
the Medicaid benefit is very limited and may not provide for the services you wish
for.
Do I have to come to the funeral home?
Most funeral directors will accommodate you, whatever the need. Basic arrangements
can be done at the funeral home, by phone and mail, and yes, even by house
calls.
Click to Visit Our Online Pre-Planning Form