Losing a loved one is always difficult and emotional. At this stressful time, family members are suddenly forced to make many important decisions alone. Many have found that setting aside final expenses ahead of time, gives them comfort in knowing that their families will have less emotional stress while grieving their loss. Pre-planning allows you to confer with your loved ones and make your plans together, thus resolving your most personal matters with a clear mind, in a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere.

Since 1960, the number of pre-planned funerals has increased by 1000%. Why such a dramatic increase in Pre-Planned Funerals?

Because pre-planning assures that:

• Your wishes are recorded to guide your family and to help reduce emotional overspending by your loved ones.

• Important names and dates can be recorded, as well as life events, to aid the funeral home staff in filing the death certificate and creating an obituary.

• You may spare your loved ones any unnecessary emotional or financial burden.

Final cost estimates provide peace of mind because they allow the family to avoid facing many unanswered questions at a difficult time. For example, consider:

• How much money will you receive from Social Security?
• Will family members know where to find insurance papers and will they understand the benefits they are entitled to receive?
• If funeral preferences are not documented in advance, who is legally responsible to make them for you?
• What Veteran's Benefits will your family receive?
• Should you choose an insurance, trust, or product/service arrangement?