Most of us know what wedding officiants do. They work with couples to design the perfect wedding ceremony and then conduct the proceedings. But did you know there are also funeral officiants—professionals who are trained to help plan and conduct funeral ceremonies? These experts are called Funeral Celebrants.

What does a Funeral Celebrant do?

Funeral Celebrants collaborate with the family to create a personalized ceremony that truly reflects the life of the person being memorialized. The celebrant gets to know the deceased by asking questions, listening to stories, and curating the information provided by the family. In designing the ceremony, they pay careful attention to the music, readings, poems, and rituals that are incorporated into the ceremony.

The Celebrant’s role during the ceremony is up to the family. In many cases, the Celebrant and family will divide the duties. For example, the Celebrant might give the eulogy and lead the songs while family members present readings and prayers.

How is a Funeral Director different from a Celebrant?

According to the National Funeral Director’s Association, the key duties of a funeral director include:

• Arranging for the removal of the deceased from the place of death
• Providing support to the bereaved during the initial stages of grief
• Preparing the body according to legal requirements and the wishes of the survivors
• Arranging and directing funeral ceremonies
• Securing information for legal documents, filing death certificates, and other legal papers
• Helping survivors when filing death benefits claims, as well as assisting them in adapting to their lives post-death

As you can see, that’s quite a broad portfolio of duties. That’s why the exact duties performed by a funeral director can vary depending on the funeral. This is especially true when it comes to acting as the funeral officiant. The funeral director may conduct the ceremony or work with a celebrant or officiant to perform the service.

The key role of a celebrant is to ensure that the funeral ceremony is personalized. Most are unaffiliated, that is to say, not directly employed by the funeral home. Their job is to focus on the funeral service or memorial ceremony. They are independent professionals who can conduct funerals at any location or within the funeral home. Unless they are also a funeral director, funeral celebrants do not handle body preparation or any of the specialized tasks that funeral directors are trained and certified to do.

Celebrants receive training and certification at organizations such as the Celebrant Foundation & Institute.

Can I use both a funeral director and a funeral celebrant?

Professional funeral celebrants are accustomed to working closely with funeral homes and are happy to do so. If you are using both, then generally, the funeral director will be responsible for transportation and care of the deceased and various organizational and administrative tasks while the celebrant takes care of the emotional and personal elements of the service. The choice between a funeral director and a funeral celebrant, or both, depends on your preferences, cultural or religious beliefs, and the specific needs of the funeral you are planning. It can also depend on regulations. When a burial is chosen, many states require that a funeral director be on hand throughout the process.

Traditional funerals where the casket is present almost always involve the services of a funeral director. If you are having the funeral at a place of worship, a clergy member will likely be involved. There are many options for where to hold memorial services because they can be held at any time following a burial or cremation. The services of a celebrant are an excellent choice for a memorial service to celebrate the life of the deceased.

What about religion?

Most celebrants are happy to design ceremonies that incorporate spiritual rituals. In fact, many clergy are also trained as celebrants.

A key reason that people like working with celebrants is that they focus on making the funeral ceremony extremely personal. If religion was important to the deceased, then, of course, it should be part of the ceremony. How active a celebrant is in conducting a funeral’s religious elements depends on your denomination. In many religions, only an ordained priest or minister can offer the rites.

So, back to the original question: Do you need both a funeral director and a funeral celebrant?

Fortunately, today, we have many options when it comes to handling funeral ceremonies. There is an important role for both the funeral director and a Professional celebrant. If your ceremony includes a funeral where the body is present, you will need the services of a funeral director. If you are having a memorial service rather than a funeral (the body is not present), then a Celebrant will be able to handle all the details.

>>Visit our Directory of Funeral Celebrants

>>Download our Guide to Using a Funeral Celebrant

>>Read: Using Funeral Celebrants

>>Read: Yes. Planning a Funeral is Like Planning a Wedding

Sources: NFDA Careers Page (https://nfda.org/careers)

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The following Frequently Asked Questions were designed to reply to the funeral insurance questions we get from consumers most often.

We’re sure you also hear similar questions when you are working with clients. In fact, you may even be wondering what the answers are to some of these.

If you’d like more information on the funeral insurance we offer the general public, we encourage you to visit our Funeral Insurance page.

What is funeral insurance?

Funeral, burial, and final expense insurance are all names for small life insurance policies ($3,000-$40,000). These policies cover the cost of final expenses, such as funeral products and services. For more details on these specialized policies, check out our Guide to Buying Funeral Insurance.

How is preneed insurance different from funeral insurance?

PreNeed insurance is similar to funeral insurance but is tied to a preneed contract with a funeral service provider. A preneed contract is a statement of goods and services contract you sign with a funeral service provider when purchasing preneed funeral insurance. It itemizes the specific funeral services and products you selected for your funeral. For more information, visit our page on preneed contracts.

Do I need funeral insurance?

The most crucial benefit of funeral insurance is financial security for your family. According to the 2021 General Price List Survey by the National Funeral Directors Association, the median cost of a traditional funeral was $9,420. This number doesn’t even include cemetery costs. A traditional funeral can easily cost $10,000 or more. Covering funeral costs is a heavy financial burden for most people, especially if it comes unexpectedly and at a stressful time. Having a funeral insurance policy protects your family against this financial hardship. It also avoids the added stress of paying for final expenses while dealing with their grief. To learn more, visit our How to Shop for Funeral Insurance page.

How much funeral insurance do I need?

The value of your policy will depend on the type of funeral service and burial you anticipate having. Most funeral insurance policies range from $3,000-$40,000. A small, simple service or cremation will cost less than a more elaborate service so you won’t need as large a policy. Preplanning is the best way to estimate how much money you need to have available for funeral costs. Our Wise Planning System can help you determine the cost of the type of funeral service you have in mind.

How much does funeral insurance cost?

The cost of funeral insurance depends on factors such as age, health, how much coverage you request, and the type of policy you choose. A guaranteed issue policy will not take health into consideration so the cost may be somewhat higher than for a medically underwritten policy. If you select an underwritten policy, the price depends on your unique situation. For example, the premiums for someone who is age 55 and does not smoke will likely be lower than for a 70-year-old smoker. Requesting a quote is the best way to determine precisely how much your premiums will be.

Do the proceeds from my funeral insurance have to be used for funeral expenses?

It depends on the type of policy you have. Once the holder of a final expense insurance policy dies, the beneficiaries can use the funds however they desire. The funds are usually used as intended, but you should choose your beneficiary carefully. Ensure that the people you want to care for your final farewell know what you want. If you have a preneed insurance contract, the proceeds will go directly to the funeral home where you have made your arrangements.

How can I save money on funeral insurance?

It’s important to remember that funeral insurance is highly regulated, and discounts are not offered on policy rates. If you find something that looks too good to be true, you probably need to look at it more closely. It probably isn’t what you want or need. You can use strategies to lower your premiums, such as scaling back your service or locking in today’s prices through a preneed contract. We highly recommend creating a funeral plan to help you consider what products and services you need. Visit our page on funeral costs to learn more about how much money you need to set aside.

Where can I buy funeral insurance?

You can purchase a funeral insurance policy through an insurance agent or a funeral service provider such as a funeral home. Some insurance companies sell the policies directly as well. Many people prefer to use an agent since it gives them a more personalized way to get customer service. There are many online sources for funeral insurance. We have a network of licensed Preplanning Specialists who would be happy to help you with your funeral planning and provide a free, no-obligation quote.

Do I need to talk to an insurance agent?

You can get a quote online, but it is always best to talk with an agent to ask questions, get clarifications, and ensure you understand precisely what you are buying. One good strategy is to request a quote online and then talk with an agent. This way, you can be confident you are getting the best policy at the best price. An independent agent (also called a broker) is typically self-employed and represents a variety of companies. An exclusive agent represents only one company and may be an employee of the company they represent. Our network of Preplanning Specialists are licensed insurance agents who can help you with your funeral planning and provide a free, no-obligation quote.

What kind of funeral insurance do I need?

The type of insurance that is right for you will depend on your circumstances. The goal is to have a policy that will provide enough money to fund your funeral and burial. Most people find that a relatively small whole-life policy will suit their needs. It is always a good idea to consult your financial advisor to get a definitive answer on what the outlook for your end-of-life situation will be. To learn more about the types of funeral insurance available, check out our Guide to Buying Funeral Insurance.

What is the difference between “Whole Life” and “Term” insurance?

“Whole Life” generally refers to “Ordinary Whole Life,” an insurance policy that will stay in force for the length of your life as long as you pay the premiums. Most whole-life funeral insurance policies are “ordinary” whole life. A “Term” life insurance policy runs for a selected time period, typically 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, or 30 years. Being aware of your policy type is essential since the beneficiary payment will only occur if the insured dies within the specified period. Be sure to read the fine print if you are considering a final expense or burial insurance policy to ensure it is a whole-life policy. Because if it is a term policy and you die after the expiration period, there will be no funds to cover funeral expenses.

Do I need funeral insurance if I have life insurance?

Many people choose to purchase funeral insurance as a supplement to life insurance. Funeral insurance will protect your estate from being depleted by your final expenses. One key advantage of funeral insurance is that it pays out more quickly than regular life insurance. Even if you have a sizable estate or significant life insurance, your loved ones may not have the cash to cover your funeral expenses. Remember, most funeral service companies require that you pay at the time of service.

Does health insurance or Medicare cover funeral costs?

No. Health insurance and Medicare are specifically for health coverage; they do not pay for funeral expenses. If you are looking for insurance coverage, you need some type of life insurance policy, such as funeral insurance, that pays out upon your death.

How do I choose a funeral insurance company?

What insurance company to buy from is essential since the wrong choice can leave you empty-handed. The short answer is that you should only buy from a top-rated company. One good source for insurance company ratings is A.M. Best. This highly regarded company offers independent analysis regarding company stability and the ability to meet financial obligations. If you choose an insurance company with an A.M. Best top rating (AA through A), you can feel reasonably confident that you are making a good choice.

How do I apply for funeral insurance?

How you apply depends on the company from which you are buying. For some, you can apply by phone or fill out a form. For others, you can apply online. Generally, you will request a no-obligation quote and wait for a reply. A good approach is to request a quote online and then talk with an agent. This way, you can be confident you are getting the best policy at the best price. Our network of Preplanning Specialists are licensed insurance agents who can help you with your funeral planning and provide a free, no-obligation quote.

Will my premium change?

If you purchase a policy with “level premiums,” your premiums will not change over the policy’s life. Price is based on the policy value, your age, and health at the time of purchase. The “premium” is the price you pay for your life insurance policy. You make the payments monthly, quarterly, or annually. Prices vary between insurers and types of policies, so be sure to shop around or speak with a licensed agent.

Can my funeral insurance be canceled?

Usually, your policy cannot be canceled unless you stop paying your premiums. The policy will automatically terminate if you don’t pay for any reason. If you choose to cancel, certain whole-life policies have a cash value. Be sure to know what you are buying.

How long do funeral insurance policies last?

If you have a whole-life funeral insurance policy and pay your premiums on time, your policy will last until you pass away. The beneficiary will receive a cash payout of the policy’s value at your death. If you have a term funeral insurance policy and pass away before the term’s expiration, your beneficiary will receive a cash payout upon your death. If the term passes before your death, then, unfortunately, there will be no payout. In most cases, the insurance company can only cancel your policy if you stop paying your premiums.

Who should I choose as my beneficiary?

Your beneficiary is the person or persons you designate as the recipient of a life insurance claim proceeds. In the case of final expense insurance, the person you designate as the beneficiary can decide not to use the funds to pay for the funeral, so be sure to select a person you trust to carry out your wishes. You should also ensure that whoever you choose is fully aware of your wishes. Our Wise Planning System is an excellent way to share your wishes with your beneficiaries and family members.

What is a Graded Death Benefit?

“Graded” refers to the reduced death benefit payable if the policyholder’s death occurs within the policy’s early years. Graded Death Benefit provisions are typically found in guaranteed issue policies. For example, a policy may only pay out the premiums paid to date if death occurs within the first year or two. The death benefit will be an increasing percentage of the face amount until the policy matures to usually the third year.

What are “Stepped Premiums?”

Stepped premiums are insurance premiums that are recalculated (generally once a year) to determine if the level of risk warrants a higher (or lower) premium. Age is generally the determining factor. On the other hand, level premiums are insurance premiums that do not change from month to month as you get older but are locked in at a specific rate. We recommend purchasing a level premium policy to cover your funeral and final expenses.

What is a “Funeral Service Provider?”

The term “Funeral Service Provider” generally refers to a funeral home. It may also refer to a funeral director, a cremation service, or other professionals who provide services to the funeral industry. For help selecting a funeral service provider, visit our Find Services directories.

What is the difference between a guaranteed issue policy and an underwritten policy?

With guaranteed issue policies, almost everyone is accepted regardless of age or medical history. You sometimes hear these policies called “Guaranteed Acceptance Life Insurance.” These policies are generally more expensive than underwritten policies because there are no health questions. Guaranteed-issue policies typically have graded death benefit provisions that reduce the death benefit within the first few years of the policy. With an underwritten policy, the insurance company evaluates your medical history to determine if it will accept the policy. Medical underwriting may also be used to determine the price of the policy.

How do I find the best funeral insurance policy for me?

We think a step-by-step approach is the best way to find a funeral insurance policy to meet your needs. To learn more about the types of funeral insurance available, check out our Guide to Buying Funeral Insurance.

The post FAQ: About Funeral Insurance appeared first on Funeralwise.

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When we think about end-of-life, we often focus on what happens before and during the funeral. That’s understandable since celebrating the life of the deceased is extremely important. The trouble is, once the funeral is over, there are still many practical matters to take care of. Some of these tasks are strictly legal (estate matters), while others are more general and involve wrapping up the deceased’s business affairs.

If you are thinking ahead to what will happen when your time comes, maintaining organized personal records is the most helpful thing you can do for the loved ones who will be responsible for these tasks following your death.

If you are handling post-funeral tasks for a loved one, remember to tend to your own needs. Seek support as you go. Consider joining support groups or seeking professional counseling to help you navigate this difficult time. Take your time, be easy on yourself, and above all, ask for help if you need it.

>>Visit Our Coping with Grief page

Things To Take Care Of After the Funeral: Estate Matters and Other Details

1. Thank you notes: It is customary to send thank you notes to those who offered their condolences, sent flowers and donations, or provided support during this difficult time.
   >>Visit our page Sending Thank You Notes After a Funeral
2. Secure copies of the death certificate: Request at least ten (10) copies since you will need this document for many of the tasks you have to accomplish.
3. Make long-term arrangements for dependents: If there are dependents, ensure there is a long-term care plan for how these individuals. Consult an attorney to make sure you take legal requirements into consideration.
4. Make long-term arrangements for pets: If there is no long-term plan for pets that are left behind, determine how to care for them.
5. Inform relevant parties: Notify any organizations or institutions of which the deceased was a member. Among these are:
   • Employers
   • Schools
   • Clubs
   • Memberships
   • Religious Institutions
6. Begin estate proceedings: Whether or not a Probate proceeding depends on the size of the estate and the existence of a will and living trust. An Executor, named in the will or appointed by the Probate Court, will shepherd the estate through this process. It may be necessary to hire an estate planning attorney to provide legal guidance.
   
   >>Are you an estate executor or handling estate matters? Check out estateexec.com.
   
   If you are responsible for managing the deceased’s estate matters, work with an attorney or estate administrator to handle the distribution of assets, settle debts, and resolve any legal issues related to the estate. Update any legal documents as necessary, such as wills, trusts, power of attorney, or healthcare directives.
   
   Request certified documentation that you are authorized to make changes on behalf of the deceased. Most institutions, such as banks, will require this proof before you can take any action.
7. File death benefit claims: It can take some time for death benefit claims to be processed, so starting this part of the process as early as possible is wise. A certified copy of the death certificate is usually required to make these claims. The types of claims to be filed are:
   • Social Security
   • Veterans Administration
   • Pension/Retirement Funds
   • Unions
     >> See Claiming Death Benefits for more information on death certificates and claiming benefits.
8. Close accounts and cancel services: Close the deceased person’s accounts, such as bank accounts, credit cards, utility services, and subscriptions. Cancel or transfer any memberships, licenses, or contracts that are no longer applicable. Be sure to consult with the estate executor to make sure you have proper authorization to transfer titles or other ownership. Examples of accounts you should cancel include:
   • Medicare / Health Insurance
   • Department of Motor Vehicles
   • Telephone
   • Utilities
   • Newspaper
   • Cable
   • Streaming Services
9. Settle financial matters: Address any outstanding financial matters, such as paying bills, resolving debts, and filing final tax returns. To properly handle financial obligations, consult with an accountant or financial advisor. It may be necessary to have the Probate Court release short-term funds to cover these bills. The types of accounts to settle include:
   • Bank Accounts
   • Credit Cards
   • Mortgages
   • Loans
10. Deactivate, transfer ownership, or memorialize digital accounts: Ensuring digital assets are taken care of has never been more important. Having the login credentials will make the task much easier. When you do not have the passwords, there may be paperwork to complete. Each provider has different requirements. The types of accounts to manage include:
    • Search tools such as Google and Yahoo
    • Email
    • Social Media
    • Online Financial Accounts
      >>See Your Digital Assets: Will Your Digital Legacy Live On After You’re Gone for more information
11. Take care of personal belongings: Determine how to handle the deceased’s personal belongings. This could involve distributing items to family members, donating to charities, or selling certain possessions.

Remember, the specific tasks and considerations will vary depending on your situation and local laws. It can be helpful to consult with professionals, such as attorneys, accountants, or grief counselors, to ensure that you address all necessary matters and receive appropriate guidance throughout the process.

If You Are Responsible for Handling the Estate

From time to time, we work closely with companies that specialize in areas that are related to the funeral industry but are complementary to what we offer. One such company is EstateExec. EstateExec offers software to help individuals perform the duties that come with being named as the executor of an estate.

Since the executor is responsible for winding down and distributing a deceased person’s estate after the funeral, it can be overwhelming. That’s where EstateExec comes in. The application provides automated guidance and automated financial accounting. In the words of the company, “You can think of EstateExec as something like Quicken® but optimized for the estate settlement process.”

There is a cost to license the software, but EstateExec offers a free trial period so that you can see if the software will work for your needs. Click here if you would like to learn more about EstateExec, or reach out to us at support@funeralwise.com, and we will be happy to have an EstateExec representative contact you.

The post After the Funeral: What You Need To Do appeared first on Funeralwise.

Tips for Coping with Mother’s Day Grief

1. Acknowledge your feelings.
   Your feelings about the loss of your mother are very real. It’s important to acknowledge them and allow yourself to grieve. Don’t try to suppress your emotions or put on a brave face. Feeling sad, angry, or overwhelmed on Mother’s Day is okay. Give yourself permission to feel these emotions and process them in a healthy way.
2. Connect with your loved ones.
   Surround yourself with others who understand your loss and can offer support. Reach out to family members, friends, or a support group. Sometimes talking to someone who has experienced a similar loss can be helpful. Sharing stories with others who knew her can bring back wonderful memories of her and why she was so special.
3. Create new traditions.
   If Mother’s Day has been difficult for you since your mother’s passing, consider creating new traditions to honor her memory. Light a candle in her honor, make her favorite meal, or visit a place that was special to her. Doing something that reminds you of your mother can help you feel closer to her on this day.
4. Put your feelings into words.
   Write a letter to your mother or grandmother expressing how much you miss them. If you keep a journal, writing about this special person may bring you comfort.
5. Practice self-care.
   Taking care of yourself is essential during times of grief. Make time for self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature. Taking care of yourself physically and mentally can help you cope with the emotions on Mother’s Day. Be sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and drink enough water. Not only can this make you feel physically better, but you know your mother would want you to stay healthy.

Remember, you shouldn’t feel pressured to do anything you don’t want to do. Spend the day doing things you enjoy. This could mean going for a long walk, spending the day watching your favorite films, or taking yourself on a day trip. Above all, If you’re struggling to cope with grief on Mother’s Day, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can help you work through your emotions and develop coping strategies. These professionals can also provide a safe and supportive space to express your feelings without judgment.

Contact your family, friends, and medical professionals if you need help but don’t know where to start. Your doctor, for example, may be able to recommend a grief support group or other resources to help you cope. Above all, remember that you are not alone.

Acknowledge your feelings, connect with loved ones, create new traditions, practice self-care, and seek professional help. It’s okay to feel sad. Healing takes time. Everyone’s timetable is different, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. With time and support, you can learn to cope with your grief and find ways to honor your mother’s memory on Mother’s Day and every day.

>>Learn More About Coping With Grief

The post Tips for Coping with Grief on Mother’s Day appeared first on Funeralwise.

A new generation of artificial intelligence (AI) is all the rage now. AI programs have been used for years, but the latest technological breakthrough is “generative” AI programs. These new AI programs, also known as chatbots, can respond to virtually any query. They can answer questions, hold a conversation, compose essays, and even create computer code.

Predictably, major tech companies Alphabet and Microsoft are developing ways to incorporate AI into their search engines (Google and Bing, respectively). Microsoft has invested billions in the artificial intelligence company OpenAI and has already integrated OpenAI’s ChatGPT into a new version of Bing. OpenAI has already released an even better version called GPT-4. Google, Meta (Facebook) and others are countering with their own AI-enabled search tools.

As you can imagine, the possibilities are endless, and like many new technologies, it comes with many concerns. Will AI chatbots replace human beings? Will chatbots be used to spread misinformation? AI development is still in its early stages. So, how widely it will be used and what the long-term impact will remain to be seen.

Artificial Intelligence and Funerals

Here at Funeralwise, we wonder what effect chatbots will have on funerals. Can chatbots be used to write eulogies and obituaries? How will artificial intelligence assist people with funeral planning? Will they recommend the best funeral homes or the best funeral insurance policy to buy? Will they be an alternative to the hundreds of pages of information on Funeralwise.com? What do you think? Post your thoughts on AI and funerals below.

An AI Chatbot Gives Us 10 Reasons to Plan Your Funeral

We were curious what a chatbot would have to say about funeral planning so we asked GPT-4 this question: “What are the reasons I should plan my funeral before I die?”

The exact response from GPT-4 (we added the text bolding):

“Creating a funeral plan before you die can provide several benefits for both you and your loved ones. Here are some reasons why you should consider creating a funeral plan:

1. Peace of mind: Preparing a funeral plan allows you to make your wishes known, ensuring that your funeral is conducted according to your preferences. This can give you peace of mind knowing that your final wishes will be respected and carried out.
2. Financial planning: By planning your funeral in advance, you can choose the services you want and determine the associated costs. This can help you make informed decisions and potentially save money by locking in prices or selecting more affordable options.
3. Easing the burden on loved ones: Losing a loved one is an emotionally challenging time. By having a funeral plan in place, you can relieve your family and friends of the burden of making difficult decisions and planning a funeral during their time of grief.
4. Personalizing your funeral: Creating a funeral plan allows you to personalize your funeral, reflecting your beliefs, values, and interests. This can help create a meaningful and memorable service for those in attendance.
5. Avoiding family disputes: Pre-planning your funeral can help avoid potential disagreements among family members regarding your funeral arrangements, ensuring that your wishes are respected and followed.
6. Ensuring financial support: Some funeral plans include options for payment or insurance policies, which can help ensure that your family has the financial means to cover the costs associated with your funeral.
7. Legal considerations: Preparing a funeral plan can also help you address legal matters related to your estate, such as appointing an executor, drafting a will, and organizing important documents.
8. Organ donation or body donation: If you wish to be an organ donor or donate your body to science, having a funeral plan in place can help communicate your intentions and ensure that your wishes are followed.
9. Environmentally friendly options: If you are concerned about the environmental impact of traditional funerals, pre-planning allows you to explore and choose greener alternatives, such as green burial options or eco-friendly cremation options.
10. Time for reflection: Planning your funeral in advance gives you the opportunity to reflect on your life and consider what kind of legacy you want to leave behind. This process can be an important part of accepting and coming to terms with your mortality.”

What Our Funeral Planning Robots Have To Say

That’s a pretty good response from GPT-4. We’ll be keeping our eye on the effect of AI on funerals and keep you informed. In the meantime, we have our own form of AI, our funeral planning robots, Zelmo and Gizmo, to offer advice on funeral planning. Check it out!

Funeral Planning the Funeralwise Way

No need to wait for AI; you can do your funeral planning today with our Wise Planning System. Get started with our Free Quick Plan.

>>Read our article “Do Robots Deserve Funerals.”

The post Artificially Intelligent (AI) Funeral Planning appeared first on Funeralwise.

Prepaid cremation plans allow you to pay for cremation before you need it. In addition to the actual cremation, you can pay in advance for other elements, such as a memorial service or celebration of life. Prepaid plans are available for the full range of cremation services. Plans range from simple direct cremation (no service, remains returned to family) to a full traditional funeral with visitation before cremation.

In most cases, you will contract directly with a funeral home or cremation provider for the services you want. Depending on the service provider you choose, you can arrange to pay for services in one lump sum or a series of installments. One of the most popular methods for paying for a cremation in advance is to take out an insurance policy. The policy will be used at your death to cover the costs of the services you purchase.

How Much Does a Prepaid Cremation Plan Cost?

The cost of a cremation can vary widely. A direct cremation can range from $750 to $4,400. A traditional funeral service preceding the cremation can run between $6,600 to $9,000. Regardless of the type of cremation services you choose, you can prepay for them with an insurance-based prepayment plan. For example, we can provide a 10-year payment plan that grows to a $2,000 payout benefit for only $17 per month.

Our Funeral Insurance Finder is a great way to get an estimate of cremation costs and an insurance policy to cover them. Even better, you can request a consultation with a Preplanning Specialist who can answer your questions and ensure you get a plan that meets your particular financial requirements. Just provide your contact information after you get your quote.

If you are interested in prepaying for a cremation plan that includes traditional or memorial services, our Preplanning Specialist can offer you valuable Free Benefits with our Wise Protection Plan.

Advantages of Prepaying for Cremation

A key reason that many people prepay for cremation is that it lifts the burden of making funeral or cremation arrangements for their loved ones. When the time comes, the difficult decisions have already been made. Your family can start their journey through grief without the stress of planning a funeral.

Another key benefit is that the financial obligations for making end-of-life arrangements are taken care of.  This can be a huge relief to those who are mourning you.

When you prepay for cremation, you can lock in prices to protect against inflation. If you choose to pay using an insurance policy, your money may grow, leaving a surplus for your family. To learn more about the types of policies that offer these advantages, we recommend you speak with one of our preplanning specialists.

Our Prepaid Cremation Plan quoter is an easy way to get an instant quote and arrange to speak with a specialist. Answer a few simple questions, and we’ll provide you with a no-risk quote for a preneed policy. Be sure to provide your contact details, and we’ll put you in touch with a Preplanning Specialist.

What to look out for when prepaying for cremation.

When you make any significant financial commitment, you need to make sure you do your homework before signing a contract. Most complaints involve cases where the provider is no longer in business or they do not honor the terms of the agreement. Here are some ways you can avoid difficulties down the road.

Research the Cremation Providers you are considering.

There are many ways that consumers can gather information on the companies they are considering purchasing prepaid cremation services from.

1. Check the Better Business ratings to see if the company has outstanding complaints.
2. Look for reviews online.
3. Talk with people you know who may have used the provider.
4. Check with the agency that regulates funeral services in your state.

>>Learn more about Cremation

Shop around.

Most communities have multiple funeral homes and cremation providers. Since you are preplanning, you have the luxury of having time to shop around. Checking on what is available at various locations will give you a good idea of what pricing is reasonable and how to cut costs. You’ll also have information that helps you recognize situations where the provider marks up prices as a hedge against inflation.

Many funeral homes and cremation providers post their prices online. Look for the General Price List on websites. Remember, funeral homes must provide you with pricing in writing.

Understand the terms of the Agreement.

It is always tempting to skim over contracts to get on with the process. You never want to do this. Pay particular attention to what will happen to your money if the provider goes out of business or if you relocate. Many prepaid plans do not allow you to transfer plans between funeral homes. This may work fine for you, but if there is a chance your situation may change, be sure your contract allows for that. Find out how the provider will protect your funds. Most states have strict rules regarding how the money for prepaid cremation and burial arrangements must be held to protect you.

Buying a prepaid cremation plan can be a smart financial move. You can minimize risks by doing your homework and learning as much as you can about exactly what you are buying.

One of the best things you can do is speak with a Funeralwise Preplanning Specialist. These professionals can help you choose a reliable provider and determine the best way to fund your plan. To get the process started click here to get a free quote.

The post Prepaid Cremation Cost and Payment Plans appeared first on Funeralwise.

November 2021

As we move through our day-to-day business it’s easy to take the things that are important for granted. For a business like ours, we rarely get the opportunity to say thank you to the people who make our work possible, you.

As we head into the holiday season, we’d like to take a moment to let you know how grateful we are to have your support. We hope that you never need us, but when you do, we’ll be there to offer support, guidance, and assistance. Thank you!

HANDLING GRIEF OVER THE HOLIDAYS

For most of us, the holidays are a time filled with joy, celebration, and family. If you are grieving, however, this time of year can be particularly challenging. Besides navigating the typical hustle and bustle of activity, situations that you might have looked forward to in the past can become emotional triggers. From family traditions that evoke the memory of the missing person to encountering people who aren’t aware of the situation, there are many ways that the holidays can amplify grief.

Remember, grief comes in all shapes and sizes. There is no timeline and no right or wrong way to handle it. So be patient with yourself and take care of your needs in the way that works for you. Our article Handling Grief During the Holidays offers some tips to help you manage your unique situation. This article can also be helpful if you are trying to help someone manage their grief.

If you feel your grief is more than you can handle, don’t hesitate to reach out to a friend, a loved one, or an organization specializing in helping people work through troubled times.

More Resources on Grief:

• The Path to Healing from a Loss
• Helping Others Grieve
• Grief: Don’t Cheer Me Up!

THE FUNERALWISE PROTECTION PLAN

At Funeralwise we know a little something about planning funerals. In fact, we recommend that everyone take the time to consider how they would like their end-of-life plans to be handled. After all, the best time to plan a funeral is BEFORE you need it!

Over the years, we’ve found that for many people, the do-it-yourself approach doesn’t fit, or the planning is done, but it’s missing one crucial element–how to pay for it. Luckily, we’ve come up with a solution. We now offer the Funeralwise Protection Plan.

The Protection Plan, available only through Funeralwise, is designed to help people create their own meaningful funeral with the help of an expert Preplanning Specialist and ensure that there are sufficient funds available to pay for it.

Whether you are planning for yourself or a loved one, the Funeralwise Protection Plan may be just the thing you need to get it done. It’s the most comprehensive tool in our family of Wise Planning Solutions. It can help you give yourself and your loved ones the peace of mind that comes with knowing that there will be sufficient funds available for your funeral.

We encourage you to take a look at the Plan and see if it’s right for you.

>>LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PROTECTION PLAN

CELEBRATION OF LIFE VERSUS A FUNERAL

As the funeral industry evolves, so too do the number of options you have for creating ceremonies to honor the deceased. Deciding what’s right for you can be confusing. Should you choose a Funeral or a Celebration of Life? What’s the difference.

In short, a Celebration of Life is really just a more personal, less formal version of a funeral. But that doesn’t mean you have to choose one over the other.

Our article “Celebration of Life or Funeral: What’s the Difference?” breaks it down for you.

10 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT CREMATION

As cremation grows in popularity, so too do misconceptions about what it is and what the dos and don’ts are. For example, choosing cremation does not mean that you can’t still have a funeral.

If you are trying to decide if cremation is right for you, or you just curious about it, our article “10 Things To Know About Cremation” will answer some of the most common questions. Our website also has a comprehensive section about cremation that can answer questions and clear up myths.

>>Read 10 Things to Know About Cremation

DON’T HAVE A FUNERAL PLAN YET?
Why not take a few minutes to get started today. TRY THE PLANNER

ALREADY HAVE A FUNERAL PLAN?
Take a few minutes to make sure it’s up-to-date. GO TO YOUR PLAN

Funeralwise.com is the place to go on the web for everything you need to know about funerals. Whether you are planning a funeral or attending one, we will provide you with straightforward answers to your questions and step-by-step instructions to guide you on your way.v

The post We Are Thankful For You appeared first on Funeralwise.