Planning for the After Life

An individual's funeral or memorial service presents a unique opportunity to celebrate the life of a loved one. Most importantly, the service serves as an important part of the grieving process for those left behind.

There are many options once someone has passed, from a direct burial service (no embalming), to a traditional burial service, to a memorial service after cremation or organ donation.

There is no typical service. Each family has its own special needs, customs and traditions. Services vary from funeral home to funeral home. Be sure to find the funeral home that makes you feel comfortable at this stressful time in your life.

The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) regulations state that all funeral homes must price their services in a similar format and provide a copy of their General Price List to customers. This provides you the opportunity to select exactly the type of funeral or memorial ceremony you prefer.

Some funeral homes offer prepaid funeral services. If you know you will be in the same town or that you want to be returned to a certain town for burial at the end of your life, this option may make sense and may save you money. Also, this option allows you to plan the type of funeral you prefer while you are still living.