Pre-Planning Your Own Funeral

Interested in lifting the burden of funeral expenses when your time comes? Click here to learn more about advance planning, estate planning, and pre-paid funeral arrangements.

What is pre-planning?

Pre-planning is the completion of your funeral wishes prior to your death. You can pay for everything you wish in advance, relieving any cost or burden from your family.

Why should you consider pre-planning your final wishes?

When you pre-plan your funeral wishes, you are clearly telling your family what you do (and don’t) want to happen when you pass. You decide on type of disposition, services, and fit it into your budget. In some cases, it can guarantee certain fees, which saves you and your family from those price increases later on.

Also, it helps lift the stress of making funeral arrangements and financial decisions from your family.

What are the benefits of pre-arranging funeral services?

Families whose loved ones pre-arranged their funerals are relieved of the burden of making decisions. The loved one clearly outlines what they want and has pre-paid for the services and merchandise.

Who can help me pre-plan my funeral wishes?

In California, you must be a licensed with the Insurance Commission of California in order to assist someone with pre-paying for their funeral. This is because your pre-payment is put into an insurance policy to ensure you’ll have your funeral covered, even if you move or change funeral homes.

What if I want to donate my body/organs?

You can contact a body donation company to determine if you may be a candidate for body donation. In some cases, hospitals and hospice providers will assist you with completing the application process.

What if I have more questions about pre-planning?

Most funeral homes and cemeteries in the area have pre-planning specialists on staff. Inquire in person and find a counselor that you feel comfortable with. A good pre-planning counselor will listen to your wishes, work within your budget, and help you feel confident in the choices you’re making for you and your family.