PRE-ARRANGEMENT: The Thoughtful Decision
Today, more people are recognizing that planning a funeral in advance of need demonstrates love and consideration toward their family members. It is a thoughtful decision that reduces the stress of indecision and uncertainty when death occurs.
The following information has been prepared to answer some of the questions we frequently receive about pre-arrangement.
Why do people pre-arrange a funeral service for themselves or a family member?
There are many good reasons. Some plan ahead because there will be no one who is capable of making responsible decisions. Others have a definite preference concerning their funeral service, and they want their families to be informed and involved in those decisions.
Many people pre-arrange because they like the peace of mind knowing there will be adequate funds to cover funeral expenses. Also pre-payment can provide real benefits when you are applying for Medicaid in the U.S.
Most importantly, pre-arrangement guarantees that rational decisions can be made ahead of time without the usual urgencies when death takes place.
What steps are involved?
After you determine your funeral preferences, we will explain your options and guide you in establishing your own plans. You should find the advice of your family, clergy, and your funeral director especially helpful when considering the options. We will record certain vital information and gather documents for the required forms.
Next, you can select a casket, burial vault, and other merchandise associated with the services. Finally, you may pay for the services and merchandise ahead of time through our funding program.
What will the pre-arranged funeral service cost?
The cost is based on your choice. All of your selections and options are featured in our itemized pricing guide. This guide provides factual information concerning each item and its price.
Funding the pre-arranged service is a choice most people make to ease possible financial pressures on their family. Pre-funding allows you to pay for the funeral service at current prices. As your plan grows over time, it offsets inflation and should provide adequate funds for the future cost of the funeral.
Funding those arrangements with insurance coverage in advance of need is a relatively new idea that is offered by funeral homes. An individual may insure his or her life for the full present day cost of the funeral arrangements. For those who qualify, our program can provide immediate and considerable cost savings.
Who Qualifies?
Individuals between the ages of 0 and 99 may apply. No medical examination is required for the life insurance, just a simple questionnaire that is completed after advance funeral plans have been made.
Pre-Planning Advantages...
Increasing Death Benefits
Reduce the impact of inflation, which would otherwise increase the cost of your funeral.
Extended Payment Options
Our insurance plans are underwritten by Fortis Family Life Insurance Company. There are various payment options available. Even people on a tight budget can gain the advantages of funding their pre-planned funeral service.
How is Pre-Planning Done?
Our funeral home staff member will meet with you at a time that is convenient, and assist you in recording your wishes. You choose everything you want for your funeral:
the type of funeral service, casket, burial vault, music, and flowers. Important obituary information will be recorded. If you choose to Pre-Fund, specific payment options will be discussed in detail.
FUNDING OPTIONS
HOW DO YOU PRE-PAY FOR A FUNERAL?
You may select one of two ways to pre-pay for a funeral.
PRE-PAYMENT IN FULL
The first method is to make payment in full. This will guarantee the price
of the funeral and merchandise selected.
PRE-FUNDING THROUGH LIFE INSURANCE
Pre-funding funerals is a growing trend in America because of the peace
of mind that comes from having one's affairs in order. Funding those arrangements
with insurance coverage or a trust are the two ways we handle pre-funding.
YOUR FUNDING IS SECURE
Your funding is backed by Fortis Family - and industry leader for more than 60 years. Today, Fortis Family provides preneed insurance with nearly 1.5 million policies. They consistently earn high marks for financial stability from the top financial ratings companies in the country.
TAX FREE VALUE, TAX FREE DEATH BENEFITS
Our plan provides life insurance benefits that are exempt from federal
income tax when paid to a named beneficiary. Neither the increasing value
of the coverage nor the total benefits paid at the time of death are federal
income taxable.
WHY PLAN AHEAD?
Planning in advance of need provides peace of mind. The death of a loved
one is a time of great loss and advance planning can reduce stress for
your family with the knowledge that your preplan has been completed. This
allows your loved ones to devote more time to coping and understanding
the loss and less time concerned with funeral arrangements and financial
details.
MERCHANDISE AND FUNERAL COST
Your Funeral Director understands that your personal choices are of the
utmost importance. Your Funeral Director will meet with you to show the
quality merchandise, assist you with the selection of the necessary merchandise
and help you make the proper arrangements. Through pre-planning the cost
of a funeral will be controlled. Merchandise selection during your pre-planning
helps insure that you do not exceed what you want to pay. Pre-payment
also offsets the risk of rising funeral costs in the future due to inflation.
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