Funeral Celebrant or Funeral Director: Which do you need?

As funeral celebrants have become more popular, many people are left wondering why they need a funeral director if they have a celebrant and vice versa. The answer is simple… it depends.

Think about a traditional funeral where the funeral director handles details such as taking care of the body, transporting the deceased, and various other tasks. But then, your clergy member takes care of the ceremony. Working with a celebrant is similar to that. The funeral director takes care of the logistical and practical considerations, and the celebrant works with the family to create the ceremony. That’s not to say that funeral directors never handle the officiating duties. It just means that it’s not always that way.

Historically, most funerals have been framed around religious ceremonies and rituals led by clergy members. Over time, society has become more diverse and, in some areas, less spiritual. With this shift, families have looked for alternatives to faith-based ways to commemorate the lives of their loved ones.

That’s where the funeral celebrant comes in. These trained professionals work with the family to design the perfect funeral or memorial service. Their key focus is on making the ceremony personal. Of course, many celebrants are also pastors and religious advisors, so using a celebrant doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t incorporate spiritual components. It just means you now have another alternative in choosing who you want to officiate the funeral.

For a more thorough explanation of how funeral directors and celebrants work, click here.

Want to learn more about funeral celebrants? Explore these articles.

• Using Funeral Celebrants: A Growing Movement
• Funeral Celebrants and Funeral Officiants: Creating Personalized Ceremonies
• Request our Guide to Using a Funeral Celebrant

What is Day of the Dead?

Each year, as Halloween rolls around, we see more and more references to the Day of the Dead. But what exactly is this commemoration all about?

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a colorful and significant Mexican holiday that celebrates the memory of loved ones who have died. The holiday is typically celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, dates coinciding with the Catholic holidays of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

Day of the Dead is not a somber occasion but a joyous celebration of life and death. It reflects the belief that the spirits of the departed continue to exist in the afterlife and can be reunited with the living during this special time. It is a unique blend of indigenous Aztec traditions and Catholic influences, creating a rich cultural celebration that has gained recognition and popularity beyond Mexico’s borders.

During the Day of the Dead, families come together with their community to honor and remember those who are no longer with them. This is done through a combination of festive and solemn traditions, including creating colorful altars or “ofrendas” adorned with marigold flowers, candles, incense, food, and drink. These ofrendas are meant to welcome the spirits of the deceased back to the living world.

As part of the tradition, families often clean and decorate the graves of the deceased, often with marigold petals and sugar skulls, and they may spend the night there, sharing stories and memories of the departed. There are parades, musical performances, and artistic displays featuring intricate sugar skulls and decorative skeletons, known as “calacas” and “calaveras.”

So, this year, as you notice the unique decorations and references to Day of the Dead, you’ll know what it’s all about.

EstateExec is designed to help everyday people with the job of the estate executor. The company offers a software program that provides automated guidance and financial accounting specifically for estate management.

To learn more about EstateExec and how it can help you with your executor duties, visit their site by clicking here.

Teraloom offers ash scattering memorials at sea and on land. Events can be personalized with a meaningful location, date, time, officiant, flowers, and more. As part of the service, Teraloom secures all necessary permits, makes the arrangements, and takes care of logistics.

To learn more about what Teraloom offers in your region, click here.

RESOURCES TO HELP YOU WITH PLAN A FUNERAL:

How to Make Funeral Arrangements
Buying Funeral and Memorial Products
How to Plan a Funeral
Plan Your Funeral Before You Need It

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 planning a funeral or attending one, we will provide straightforward answers to your questions and step-by-step instructions to guide you on your way.

The post Funeral Director or Celebrant appeared first on Funeralwise.

May 2022

DO YOUR LOVED ONES KNOW WHAT YOU WANT?
Creating a funeral plan can be rewarding since it lets you slow down and reflect on what’s important to you regarding end-of-life arrangements. Once your plan is in place, you have the peace of mind of knowing that your family won’t have the burden of trying to guess what you would want when the time comes.
One vital part of funeral planning that is sometimes forgotten (or avoided) is making sure your loved ones know what you want. The trouble is, it’s not always easy to start the conversation.
Our article “Talking About Your Funeral Plan” has tips for getting started and how to ensure the process goes smoothly. While the article focuses on sharing your information with others, most tips also apply when you want to discuss the subject with others to discuss their plans and how they want their arrangements taken care of.
We always recommend that your funeral plans be recorded online or in hard copy. If you are thinking about what you want for your funeral but haven’t yet written it down, we suggest you take advantage of our Wise Planning System.

>>Read Talking About Your Funeral Plan

WANT ONE LESS THING TO WORRY ABOUT?
Do you travel for pleasure? How about for business?
Regardless of why you hit the road, it makes sense to consider purchasing an affordable Travel Protection Plan.
Travel plans cover the cost of getting you home should the unthinkable happen. While it’s hard to imagine needing such a plan, it can make good financial sense. Take a few minutes to learn why purchasing a travel plan is smart, no matter how much you travel.

>>Learn More about Travel Protection

MAKING FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS EASIER
Making funeral arrangements when someone dies unexpectedly or without a plan can be complicated. There is lots to do and not much time to do it.
You can make arranging a funeral easier by knowing what to do and who to call.
For detailed information on making funeral arrangements, visit the Arrangement Pages on our website. You can also download a copy of our Guide to Making Funeral Arrangements or our Funeral Planning Checklist.

WISE PROTECTION PLAN
The Wise Protection Plan, available only through Funeralwise, is designed to help you create your own meaningful funeral with the help of an expert Preplanning Specialist who helps ensure that you have sufficient funds available to pay for it. The Plan is 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 sufficient funds will be available for your funeral. We encourage you to look at the Plan and see if it’s right for you. We are always available to answer any questions you may have.

>>Learn More

LET US ENRICH YOUR GROUP OR ORGANIZATION
Are you a group, organization, or faith-based community that would benefit from offering its members access to our unique set of planning tools? If so, we’d like to hear from you.
Funeralwise offers a unique program designed to enhance the benefits you currently receive as a result of your membership in a group or organization.
When your community teams with Funeralwise, it doesn’t just get access to our funeral planning tools; it gets dedicated support, personalized attention, and much more.

>>Learn More

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.

The post Sharing Your End-of-Life Plans appeared first on Funeralwise.

For most of history, we have cared for our dead at home. The deceased were memorialized in the family parlor and buried in the family graveyard. Embalming has been practiced as far back as ancient times, but it has not always been accepted in the US.

The process from death to burial happened quickly enough that preservation was not an issue. During the Civil War, people became more familiar with embalming as surgeons widely used embalming to preserve the bodies of soldiers so they could be transported home for burial.

• A Home Funeral (or Family-Directed Funeral) takes place outside of a funeral home. This usually means in a residence or surroundings special to the deceased. The loved ones of the deceased take care of bathing, dressing, and tending to the body. Typically, embalming is not used. Instead, dry ice or synthetic ice is used to keep the body cool.
• A Home Burial is a burial that takes place on your own private property. Often, the family and friends build their own simple wooden casket or use a fiberboard.

When President Abraham Lincoln’s body was carried across the country by train, newspapers reported on the techniques used for preservation. Americans began to see the value of embalming. Body preservation began to be embraced, but the home was still the center of activity in terms of caring for the dead. The embalmer would come to the home to tend to the body, and the funeral would still take place in the family parlor.

It wasn’t until the 1900s that conditions were right for the funeral industry as we know it today to be born. People began to turn to death specialists to handle the details of caring for the body. Funeral parlors began to pop up in towns across the country. It was also during this time that we saw the growth of community graveyards as an alternative to the traditional family cemetery.

Today, the funeral industry is estimated to be worth nearly $21 billion. It is unquestionably an important and integral part of our society. It cares for our dead, comforts grieving families, and helps to sustain our legacy. Nevertheless, a small but growing movement is embracing the practice of holding the funeral at home rather than at a funeral home or place of worship.

Why Home Burial?

Among the key factors driving the home funeral and burial movement’s growth are the desire to find “green” alternatives to traditional funerals and the need to reduce costs. The cost of the average funeral inching toward $10,000. Home funerals offer a promising option since the cost can be significantly less.

Before opting for a home burial, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with local regulations and zoning laws, which vary widely. Some regions have specific requirements for home burials, including plot size, depth, and documentation.

But home funerals are about far more than just saving money. They offer a way to honor the lives of loved ones by making the process much more personal and dignified. They also allow the family to connect with their dead by giving them a hands-on role in making sure their final requests are honored.

Home burial also provides the ability to tailor the entire process to reflect the individuality and personality of the departed. Families can choose meaningful locations, design personalized markers, and establish their own rituals to celebrate the life of their loved one. This personal touch fosters a more intimate connection between the family and the deceased, providing solace during the grieving process.

Even the funeral industry has started to take notice, with some funeral directors beginning to offer support to people who want to hold home funerals. The Green Burial Council is a group dedicated to advancing environmental standards for the funeral industry. The group is working to approve more funeral homes that accommodate families looking for home funeral options.

There is also a growing network of professionals who can assist individuals with carrying out a home funeral. While they do much more than just advise on home burial, death doulas or death midwives can help you understand what to expect when planning a home funeral.

Whether or not a home funeral is right for you or your loved one is a question only you can answer. You will need to consider factors such as how the deceased would prefer to have his or her body handled your religious or cultural beliefs, and how you and your family feel about handling the body. The important thing to know is that you do have the option of holding the funeral at home.

If you do decide that you would prefer a home funeral, it is critical that you document your decision in your funeral plan so that the individuals who are handling your arrangements are aware of your wishes.

LEARN MORE ON FUNERAL PLANNING

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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.

The post Funeral Insurance Frequently Asked Questions 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.

The short answer is: The cemetery will charge you a fee if you want a second set of remains in the space with the first set of remains (casket or urn). The fee is called the Second Right of Interment.

Let’s talk a bit more about that.

When you purchase a cemetery plot, you don’t buy the property. This is a common misconception. You actually buy the right to be buried in that piece of land. This applies to graves, mausoleum spaces, or niches for ashes. This is where the term Right of Interment comes from—you buy the right to inter remains in a particular space.

What if you want to have two bodies or two urns buried in a single space or have a casket and an urn buried together?

Depending on the cemetery, you may be able to do this. Stacking caskets would be more complicated and require a double-depth plot. These types of plots are not available at all cemeteries. Most, however, can handle two urns or a casket with an urn in one space. Of course, there is a but.

Remember we said you are paying for a Right of Interment when you purchase the plot or space. The Right of Interment is for one set of remains. If you want to bury two sets of remains, whether caskets or urns, you must pay for the Second Right of Interment.

So, you would think that since you have already paid once, the fee for the Second Right of Interment would be negligible. In some cases, this is true. However, the cemetery can charge whatever price they feel is necessary. You are more likely to find that the Second Right of Interment costs almost the same as the First Right of Interment.

The Second Right of Interment fee is up to the cemetery and can vary widely from cemetery to cemetery. It may seem unreasonable to expect you to pay for a second interment, but keep in mind that cemeteries have many operating expenses. The Second Right of Interment Fee offers them a way to cover some of these costs.

Most people agree that having to pay some fee is understandable. The trouble comes in when the price that is charged seems too high. So the real question is, is the Second Right of Interment fee reasonable?

Unlike funeral homes, there are few regulations governing cemeteries. The cemetery is not required to provide specific pricing ahead of time, and prices are not generally capped. That makes it essential that you understand precisely what you are paying for before signing the contract.

To add to the confusion over cemetery pricing, different cemeteries state their prices differently. One cemetery may bundle their right of interment with other things, such as opening and closing the grave, the cost for the tent, and refilling the grave. Others may price these items separately. 

So back to the original question, why do I have to pay to have an urn placed in a casket or have an urn placed in the grave with the casket? The answer is that cemeteries require that you purchase the right to have remains buried. The right must be purchased for each set of remains.

Make sure you know what you are paying for before signing a contract with the cemetery. If you are buying a bundle, what is included in the bundle? If everything is priced separately, is this everything you need? Are the prices “drive out,” or will there be other incidental fees that pop up? At a minimum, you will pay for the Right of Interment and opening and closing of the grave. And don’t forget, you’ll need a vault or liner, a grave marker or headstone.

The lesson here is to educate yourself about what costs a cemetery requires. If you have time, shop around. And, of course, preplanning is always smart.

>> Learn More About Making Cemetery Arrangements

The post What is a Second Right of Interment? appeared first on Funeralwise.

DOES YOUR FAMILY KNOW WHAT YOU WANT?

You’ve probably heard us say that the best time to plan a funeral is before you need it. The same goes for talking about your funeral plan with your loved ones. It doesn’t do much good to have a plan in place if no one knows about it. Remember, a key reason for preplanning is to save your family from having to make difficult decisions at an emotional time. Ensuring that they know what you want is a vital part of that.

Having the Talk

The hardest part of talking about your funeral plan with your loved ones is getting started. It might be easy if there was a right or wrong way, but no luck there. The right way to start a conversation about the type of funeral you want is the one that works for your unique situation. After all, you know your loved ones best, so you are the best judge of the approach that makes both you and your family comfortable.

That said, there are things you can do to help the whole process go smoothly. In fact, you may be surprised at how receptive the people you’re talking to are. Once the awkward part is out of the way, you will probably find that they’ve wanted to have this conversation but didn’t know how to go about it.

7 Tips for Talking with Your Loved Ones About Your Funeral Plan

1. Plan in advance.
   You don’t need a script, but you should think about what you want to accomplish. Do you want to start by going through the big items like burial versus cremation, or do you want to present a detailed funeral plan? How complex you want to get impacts how much time you need and perhaps where you hold the conversation.
   
   Keep in mind that you’ve had some time to think about this conversation in advance. Your loved ones may not have, and they may be uncomfortable with the subject. Planning can help you frame the discussion to put your loved ones at ease.
   
2. Decide who to involve in the conversation.
   Deciding who you’d like to involve when talking about your funeral plan depends on your situation, family dynamics, and how much detail you plan to get into. Perhaps you only want to include the person who will be primarily responsible for taking care of your arrangements. Maybe you’d like to have your entire family involved so that everyone is on the same page.
   
3. Think about where you’d like to have the talk.
   A quiet, comfortable place works best for this kind of discussion. This can be your home, a café, a restaurant, or another spot that can accommodate the number of people you plan to have. If you think it may become emotional, your home may be best. Consider the feelings of those attending and choose a spot that will put your family at ease.
   
4. Plan how you will start the conversation.
   Think about a topic to use as a starting point. Perhaps there is a triggering event you can bring up—the funeral of someone you know, the illness of a family member, something you’ve seen in a TV show or film. This will help put your decisions in context and avoid putting your loved ones in a position where they feel blindsided.
   
   Humor and storytelling can be great ice breakers.  If those techniques work for you, take advantage of them. Your goal is to make sure that your loved ones know what you want when the time comes. The conversation shouldn’t be a comedy routine, but it also doesn’t need to be grim.
   
5. Expect questions and concerns.
   Understandably, the people who care about you may assume that something is wrong when they hear you talking about funeral arrangements. Explain what led you to think about your end-of-life arrangements, and be prepared to offer reassurances. They may also be curious about why you are making certain decisions—for example, cremation over burial. You don’t have to justify your choices, but offering a simple explanation will help to calm your family’s fears.
   
6. Anticipate emotions and pushback.
   This discussion may be easy for some and hard for others. Someone who is particularly resistant or has difficulty understanding why you want to talk about this now may appreciate being excused from the conversation. If they have significant differences with the approach you have chosen for aspects of your funeral, listen carefully to the objections and respond. If you are still in disagreement, let them know you understand their concerns but request that they honor your wishes.
   
7. Keep the Topic Open for Further Conversation
   You don’t have to cover everything in one conversation. If you or your loved ones become overwhelmed, set a day and time for a follow-up conversation. If you have one or two individuals designated to take care of the details, it may make sense to meet with them privately. For some people, working in stages is most effective. For example, the first conversation covers the big stuff, such as how you’d like your body handled (i.e., burial versus cremation). Have follow-up to cover the service you’d like and other details.

Thinking about having a conversation with your loved ones about your funeral arrangements can be daunting. Don’t worry, though; you’ve done the work of preparing a plan, so you’ve been through the most challenging part. You may be surprised at how receptive your family is. Often, those involved find the discussion rewarding. They may even share their own plans once you open the topic.

The important thing is that you get the conversation going. Don’t wait until there is a serious situation and you have to rush things. It is never too early to have the talk.

What if you haven’t started your planning or you have yet to put pen to paper?

It is essential that you get your funeral plan down on paper. Funeralwise can help. We designed our Wise Planning Solutions just for that. The Wise Planning System features a vibrant online planner. A key feature of the planner is the ability to designate a “Plan Guardian.” This is a trusted individual (or individuals) who will ensure your plan is carried out when the time comes. Our Wise Protection Plan is an all-inclusive product that helps you create a plan and fund it.

Our website is packed with resources if you would like to learn more about funeral planning and making funeral arrangements. We recommend that you take a few minutes to browse the site even if you already have a plan.

>>Plan Your Funeral BEFORE You Need It

>>Making Funeral Arrangements

>>Celebrations of Life

>>Funeral Insurance

The post Talking About Your Funeral Plan appeared first on Funeralwise.

At Funeralwise, we recognize the importance of planning ahead. That’s true for all phases of life–whether you are starting to build your family, embarking on a career journey, or getting ready for retirement.

Many people don’t realize that planning ahead for death is just as important as planning ahead for life. That’s never been more true than it is today and the main reason why we’ve made it our mission to help you prepare wisely for end-of-life. When you plan ahead, you get to manage your end-of-life your way. You are in control throughout the entire process, from how you celebrate your life to how you pay for your final expenses.

Why Plan Ahead With the Wise Protection Plan?

There are many good reasons to plan ahead with the Wise Protection Plan. Tops on our list is the fact that you get to control how your end-of-life wishes are handled. At the same time, you make sure there are funds available to ensure that what you want is what takes place.

Maybe even more important is the fact that the Plan is designed to help you make sure that when the time comes, your family isn’t left with a financial disaster. The Wise Protection Plan is more than a financial payment plan. It has everything your survivors will need to make your funeral arrangements and wrap up your affairs.

When working with a Preplanning Specialist, you’ll get the personal attention you deserve. These professionals are tops in their field when it comes to helping people like you plan for and fund their funeral arrangements.

We’ve got more details on what’s included in the Plan below, but the best way to learn more is by talking with a Specialist. There is absolutely no commitment and no obligation so we encourage you to get started now. Just click on the button below or call our 24/7 information number. It’s simple and it’s free.

Need more information?  Call 866-310-2629. We’ll put you in touch with a Preplanning Specialist.

We’re ready to help you get the peace of mind that you and your family deserve right now. After all, every life deserves to be celebrated.

The Wise Protection Plan: Everything You Need

For qualified individuals, the Wise Protection Plan includes:

• The Wise Plan Complete, a do-it-yourself funeral planner, is included for FREE. (A $79.95 value)
• Access to essential legal documents, such as a Will, is included for FREE.
• Consultation with a Preplanning Specialist is included for FREE.
• An affordable insurance plan to cover your funeral and final expenses. You’ll receive a FREE, no-obligation quote.

Click on the Let’s Get Started button below to find out if you qualify for the Wise Protection Plan.

Let’s Get Started

Why Should You Choose the Wise Protection Plan?

Do you want to have your affairs in order? Do you want to express your final wishes and leave behind a plan to carry them out? If so, the Wise Protection Plan is for you. The Plan will:

• Ensure there are sufficient resources to cover your final expenses.
• Ease the difficult and emotional task of making your final arrangements.
• Remove the financial risk to those who will be responsible for paying your final expenses.
• Provide an easy, all-in-one solution and the peace of mind that comes with having your affairs in order… for you and your loved ones.

The Wise Protection Plan: Here are the Details

The Wise Protection Plan includes our Wise Planning Solutions and much more. “Solutions” is a set of do-it-yourself planning tools, forms, and checklists to help you to plan your way, at your convenience. The Wise Protection Plan goes beyond these do-it-yourself planning solutions with the assistance of Preplanning Specialists, essential legal forms, and an affordable insurance plan to cover your expected funeral and other final expenses.

The full suite of solutions in the Wise Protection Plan includes four key elements:

#1 Personal Planning Assistance

You’ll get personal attention from a member of our network of Preplanning Specialists. These professionals will guide you through the end-of-life preplanning process. They will explain the elements of a funeral and the associated costs. They’ll work with you to understand your unique circumstances to recommend personalized, affordable solutions for covering your funeral and final expenses.

Our Preplanning Specialists are dedicated to helping you ensure that you don’t leave your loved ones unprepared for your end-of-life. Consultations are FREE and are available by phone, virtually via webcam, and in person.

#2 The Wise Plan Complete: the ultimate funeral planner.

This full-featured planner enables you to take your planning to the next level. The Wise Plan Complete is available for a one-time upgrade fee of $79.95. It is included FREE in the Wise Protection Plan.

• Share your Plan by email.
• Print your Plan.
• Get detailed funeral cost estimates.
• Use final expense planning tools to manage your cost.
• Choose funeral service providers, such as funeral homes, cemeteries, and products.
• Assign Plan Guardians (i.e., trustees for your plan).
• Do detailed ceremony planning.
• Record vital personal information.
• Get helpful funeral arrangements and post-funeral checklists.

#3 Essential Legal Documents

With the Wise Protection Plan, you’ll have FREE access to the essential legal documents typically recommended by legal experts. These documents include:

• A Last Will and Testament
• A Living Will
• A Healthcare Power of Attorney
• A Power of Attorney

#4 Affordable Insurance Plan

Having a well-documented funeral plan is a truly thoughtful thing to do for your family. Even a basic plan to describe your wishes will relieve some of the burdens they will face in handling your final arrangements. Having a financial plan in place to fund your funeral plan is the best way to protect your family from the financial hardship that many families face when a loved one dies and the final bills come due.

Funeral insurance is a popular financial solution for covering your funeral and other final expenses. Our Planning Specialists are licensed agents for the top-rated insurance carriers that we highly recommend. We have the choice to represent any insurance company. We have selected those that we believe offer the best policies, value, and security. That’s why our Specialists provide free quotes for your consideration from this slate of elite companies.

Purchasing an insurance plan locks in the full benefits of the Wise Protection Plan.

Don’t Delay. Get Started Now!

To get started, you just need to answer a few quick questions to find out if you qualify for the Wise Protection Plan. It only takes a few minutes. It’s Simple and Free. Click the button below to get started.

Let’s Get Started

The post Personalized Funeral Preplanning appeared first on Funeralwise.