Pre-Arrangement Process

The Basics of Planning

Here's a break-down of the process : 

  1. 1
    Set goals
  2. 2
    Review limitations
  3. 3
    Look at available options
  4. 4
    Weigh the pros and cons of each option
  5. 5
    Talk to others about the best options
  6. 6
    Arrive at a final decision

In the case of funeral pre-arrangement, another two important steps are involved:

  1. 1
    Write out your plan with as many details as possible.
  2. 2
    Send your plan to the funeral home and provide a copy to your executor.

Using the Online Pre-Planning Tool

This website features Pre-Arrange Online, a step-by-step interactive form that can be used to record your end-of-life plan and send the completed form to our staff for safekeeping. 

Record Your Wishes

There are many benefits to end-of-life planning. Here are the top ten reasons why you should consider making your funeral arrangements ahead of time:

  • It means there will be fewer opportunities for argument and indecision about your funeral arrangements among family members after you're gone.
  • Your survivors will never have to worry about doing the wrong thing when finalizing your funeral arrangements. You will have told them exactly what you want.
  • No mistakes and no oversights. After you're gone, everything will be done your way.
  • You have peace-of-mind now knowing that we will follow through with your wishes.
  • After your death, no one can make any decisions you wouldn't want.
  • Funeral pre-planning is the responsible thing to do. It removes the burden from family members.
  • You can make complex decisions ahead of time when you have the time to think things through.
  • Funeral pre-planning can involve pre-payment. This will save your family money and avoid any financial burdens.
  • Funeral pre-planning involves an awareness of the reality of death.
  • You are almost guaranteed to get what you want.

About Advance Directives

  • Advance directives are legal throughout the United States.
  • Governing laws vary so be sure to obtain an advance directive that complies with your state's laws.
  • You do not need an attorney to complete an advance directive.
  • If you reside in more than one state, you should complete an advance directive for each state where you spend a significant amount of time.
  • There are no time limitations on advance directives. A signed advance directive remains in force until a new one is completed.
  • Periodically review your advance directive to make sure it still reflects your desires. If it doesn't, don't try to amend it; simply complete a new one.
  • Paramedics and emergency medical technicians cannot recognize or honor a living will or medical power of attorney. They are obligated to do their best to stabilize the patient and get them to the hospital. When you are in the care of hospital personnel, your advance directive becomes valid.

Get it Done... and Then Relax

End-of-life planning makes sense. Call us today to learn how we can help or get started now with our online pre-planning tool, Pre-Arrange Online.

Where to Obtain an Advance Directive Form

It's fairly easy to get a copy of the advance care directive form for your state. Your local hospital is a reliable source, as federal law requires every hospital to not only provide information about advance directives to people in their service area, they are also required to share valuable information about the related laws in your state. Contact your local hospital to learn more. Your family physician may also have advance directive forms available for patients.

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