Your Funeral Pre-Planning Checklist

Planning ahead is one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give your loved ones. Our comprehensive Funeral Pre-Planning Checklist helps you make informed decisions, ensuring your final wishes are honored while easing emotional and financial stress for your family. Start the pre-planning process online with our planning center.

Advance Planning Guide

Checklist

 What’s Included in Your Funeral Pre-Planning Checklist

Service Preferences

  • Choose from options including traditional burial, cremation, or donation.
  • Select a funeral home and director.
  • Decide on location: funeral home, church, graveside, or other meaningful venue.

Ceremony Details

  • Choose music, readings, poetry or sayings, and speakers.
  • Think about pallbearers and officiants.
  • Decide on floral arrangements or charitable donations.

Place of Permanent Memorialization

  • Select a cemetery or cremation niche.
  • Select a casket or urn, and outer receptacle.
  • Decide on clothing and personal items for burial.

Personal Legacy

  • Write or outline your obituary.
  • Share your life story, values, and messages for loved ones.
  • Ensure your life’s story is told the way you want

Legal & Financing Planning

  • Think about a power of attorney and executor, or Designee.
  • Provide access to important documents and accounts.
  • Plan for utility cancellations and subscriptions.
  • Think about your online footprint including Facebook, X, Instagram.

Payment Options – Lock in Your Costs

The services and things a funeral home can help you with:

  • Burial plot and cemetery fees.
  • Transportation and specialized services.
  • Memorial products and personalization.

Advantages of Pre-Planning a Funeral

Making the choice to pre-plan your funeral offers you and your loved ones a wide range of benefits, including:

  • Eliminating Time Pressure: Decisions don’t have to be made in hours or days and can evolve as time goes on.
  • Reducing Stress: Give your family clarity during a difficult time.
  • Ensuring Your Wishes Are Met: From service style to music, your preferences are respected.
  • Financial Relief: Lock in today’s prices and avoid future inflation.
  • Organized Legacy: Leave behind a clear plan that reflects your values.