Pre-Arrangements

Pre-arranging funerals is not a new concept. In fact, it has been around for years. Last year, over one million people in the United States decided to pre-plan their funerals.

Pre-payment will protect you from the rising cost of prices, and it will not be a financial burden on your loved ones. When you plan ahead you know that your wishes will be fulfilled.

The simple fact is advance planning makes a lot of sense. When someone dies, the family is faced with a multitude of decisions at a very difficult time. They have to define the type of service, where to have the service, what style and color of casket, how much to spend, and many other things. Advance planning takes the burden off the family by discussing the options and costs of the service before death occurs.

A funeral may not be an easy thing to discuss, but people who have pre-arranged their funeral say it is easier to talk about it with family members and friends before death actually occurs. Those who pre-plan feel at ease because they know their personal wishes will be fulfilled.

Further, advance planning can help avoid the unexpected increase in funeral costs. It's hard to tell what the cost of a funeral might be in 20 years. Inflation impacts funeral costs, causing uncontrolled increases in the cost of goods and services. Savings and life insurance may not be sufficient to cover the costs of a funeral in the future. Advance planning eliminates those worries by freezing funeral costs at today's prices, and actually saving money later.

Funeral planning normally consists of two steps: making the funeral arrangements and funding the cost of the prearrangement through life insurance, bank trust agreement, or other finances. It is possible to select funeral goods and services without pre-funding the funeral. However, the price of the funeral may not be guaranteed.

A pre-need contract will be drawn up identifying all parties involved, a complete description of the merchandise and services purchased, the current price for the merchandise and services, and any specific guarantees and warranties.

Funerals rank third among the most expensive purchases the average consumer makes, right after buying a home and a car. And with advance planning the major purchase of a funeral can be made easier. Let the dedicated professionals at Ott/Haverstock assist you with your advance planning needs. For more information, we welcome you to fill out the form below or to contact us.