Making funeral arrangements ahead of time

Submitted by Emma Hamilton on Thu, 22/09/2011 - 11:44pm

Many people now choose to make funeral arrangements ahead of time.

Many people are now choosing to organise their own funeral in advance. Talking about death and dying can be uncomfortable. However, discussing the issues early on can help family carry out a loved one's wishes and preferences.

Funerals can be costly and unexpected. A current trend is pre-paid or pre-arranged funerals. These arrangements can take the financial and emotional burden off family at such a traumatic time.

To find the right funeral director you may want to visit a few, talk with friends and people in the local community and ask for recommendations. Many funeral directors offer pre-paid or pre- arranged funerals.

What is a Pre-paid Funeral?

A pre-paid funeral is a funeral that has been paid for by a person to the contracted funeral director in advance. It allows people to organise and pay for the type of funeral they want at current prices. Payments can often be flexible and paid in instalments.

A person can choose the type or style of funeral they prefer including type of coffin, flowers, memorial books, death notices and any special features. Pre-paid funerals ensure a funeral is conducted according to the deceased wishes.

Pre-paid funerals allow money to be put into a separate and independent body such as a trustee company or friendly society that is accessible by the funeral director only after the funeral services have been provided. This protects a person if the funeral company goes bust. You can also move your plan to another funeral director if you move.

Pre-paid funeral plans must comply with relevant commonwealth and state legislation. Make sure you have a thorough understanding of what services and products are included in the contract and ask who will be managing the trust.

What are Funeral Bonds ?

A funeral bond is an investment plan that allows family to set aside and secure funds for future funeral expenses.
Funds are invested on behalf of a client much like a life insurance policy. Funds are only payable when a death occurs and must be used for funeral expenses. Funeral bonds do not protect a person from rising funeral costs.