Funeral pre-planning really doesn't have any downside, provided a person does a little homework beforehand. Pre-planning is the process of gathering information on the more than 50 decisions that need to be made at the time of death. These typically include the disposition arrangements, decisions about visitation, funeral or memorial services, and merchandise. These are basic decisions that determine the major portion of the cost of funeral arrangements. These decisions should be written down and communicated to a trusted friend or relative who may be in charge of carrying out the wishes. Funeral providers generally have forms that can be used for this purpose and will maintain the decisions in their files if you wish. Completing these decisions removes a large emotional burden from families at the time of death.

What questions should I ask before pre-paying for a funeral?
   Pre-paying funeral expenses can be a good way to complete the planning process. It is always a good idea to first make sure all the prices for the services to be rendered are a good value. If the funds are held in trust, ask who manages the trust; Gethers Funeral Home, Inc. deposits these funds in a federally insured financial institution. If an insurance product is being used, make sure the company is reputable and has a good record of claims payment. Also determine if there are any tax consequences to you, and make sure you understand completely what is guaranteed and what is not.

How can I get pricing information?
   The Federal Trade Commission rules require all funeral homes to give price information over the phone. You don't need to give your name or address if you uncomfortable doing so.

Why do I need to prepay funeral expenses if I already have a lot of insurance?
   If a person's financial portfolio is extensive or there is ample insurance coverage, prepaying for funeral expenses may not be necessary from a strict financial perspective. There may be reasons other than financial, however, for a person to prepay funeral expenses. This may be a way of insuring that the funeral plans are carried out exactly as specified or it may be a way of completing the circle of planning.

Is it a good idea to put your funeral plans in your will?
   Since wills are not usually read until after the funeral, it may not be effective to rely on this to make sure funeral plans are carried out. A better way is to execute a preplanning document and distribute copies to the parties who are likely to be involved, such as the funeral provider and a trusted family member or friend.