Pre-Planning Checklist

For many, it feels like there’s an overwhelming amount of things to think about! But in all honesty, taking control of the important things in life just feels good; you know it's the right thing to do for you, and your family.

Prepare

Laying the foundation for a well thought out plan for you or a loved one takes a bit of time, but, it's worth every moment spent. After all, you’re setting the stage for a more relaxed and enjoyable life, because you’ll have the peace-of-mind preparedness brings. Here’s what to do to get started:

  • Prepare a contact list of individuals who should be notified in a medical emergency or death.
  • Write your favorite stories from your life or simply jot down information about how you want to Be Remembered.
  • Decide where your obituary and memorial information should appear.
  • Choose the type of service you would like including the elements from your life that you want to included such as interests passions or hobbies. 
Based on the answers above, you will then need to decide:

  • Cemetery lot location
  • Casket type; cremation urn type
  • Vault or sectional crypt
  • Type of service: religious, celebratory, military, non-denominational, or fraternal
  • The contact details for the funeral home you designate to care for you
  • Pallbearers, music, flowers, scripture or other readings
  • Charity to receive donations in lieu of flowers, if donations are preferred
  • Select the speakers and the eulogist's that you would want to represent you
  • Decide what organizations or church will benefit from memorial donations in your name.

Arrange and Delegate

The people who know and care about you will be there when you need them. You only need to provide them with instructions, important financial details, and then relax. You’re in good hands.

  • Give your Executor a copy of your Will. Safety deposit boxes are often opened up during the estate settlement process, long after the funeral. Any funeral planning documents therein can be of no help to your executor.
  • Make sure your representative has a list of important account information.Telephone numbers for retirement plans, insurance policies, investments, bank accounts, safe-deposit boxes, properties, preferred law and accountant firms and mortuaries. Remind your personal representative that the Social Security Administration will need to be called and, if you're receiving benefits such as those from the Veteran's Administration, they should be contacted as well.
  • Designate a power of attorney.Which ensures that proper information can be accessed in the event of your illness or death. Make sure a durable power of attorney for health care and a living will are in place so that your wishes are carried out if you are unable to do so.
  • Make arrangements for discontinuing services.Examples are telephone and utilities services, and newspaper and magazine deliveries, etc. These will need to be cancelled.

Pay for:

  • Cemetery and memorialization services
  • Funeral arrangements, including clergy, florist and transportation
  • Make arrangements for pets to find a new home.
  • You can also contact us for additional information. We're pleased to answer any questions you may have, without obligation.