Planning Ahead: A Gift to Your Loved Ones
Peace of Mind : Many who have undergone the emotional strain of arranging a funeral within hours of losing a loved one have made the choice to pre-plan their own funeral. Doing so lifts the burden from their loved ones by relieving decision-making pressure at a time of grief and emotional stress.
Personal Choice :Funeral arrangements are a deeply personal choice. Pre-planning provides you with the time needed to make practical, detailed decisions that reflect your standards, lifestyle, taste and budget. And we assure you and your family that the choices you make will be carried out as planned.
Lower Costs : When you finalize your plan, we can advise you of the total cost. You do not have to set aside funds for your plan, but doing so protects you against escalating funeral costs. By locking in today's funeral costs and ensuring that the necessary funds are set aside, you help relieve yourself of unnecessary future worry and your survivors of an unexpected expense.
Key Benefits of Pre-Planning
Pre-planning your funeral arrangements offers numerous advantages for both you and your loved ones.
Peace of Mind
Pre-planning gives you the comfort of knowing your wishes will be followed and your loved ones won't have to make difficult decisions during a time of grief.
Open Communication
Pre-planning creates an opportunity for open discussions with family members about your wishes, reducing uncertainty and potential conflicts.
Time for Thoughtful Decisions
Without the pressure of immediate need, you can take time to consider all options and make choices that truly reflect your wishes.
Financial Consideration
Pre-planning allows you to understand costs in advance and potentially lock in current prices if you choose to pre-fund your arrangements.
Personal Control
Pre-planning ensures that your life is celebrated in a way that reflects your values, beliefs, and personality.
Easing Family Burden
Pre-planning relieves your loved ones of having to make complex decisions while grieving, allowing them to focus on supporting each other.
The Pre-Planning Process
Pre-planning your funeral arrangements is a simple process that can be completed at your own pace. Here's how it works:
Initial Consultation
Schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of our pre-planning advisors. This can be done in person, by phone, or online, depending on your preference.
Discuss Your Wishes
Our advisor will guide you through various options and help you document your preferences for services, merchandise, and other details.
Record Your Plan
Your preferences will be documented in detail and kept on file with us. You'll receive a copy for your records, which you can share with family members if you wish.
Funding Options (Optional)
If you choose to pre-fund your arrangements, our advisor will explain various options, including funeral insurance, trusts, or payment plans.
Review and Update
Your pre-plan can be reviewed and updated at any time as your preferences or circumstances change. We recommend reviewing your plan periodically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about pre-planning funeral arrangements.
No, there is no fee for pre-planning your funeral arrangements with A. Barrett Funeral Services. Our pre-planning services are offered as a complimentary service to our community. Costs are only incurred if you choose to pre-fund your arrangements.
Your pre-planned arrangements can typically be transferred to another funeral home if you move. If you've pre-funded your arrangements, the funds can usually be transferred as well. We can help coordinate this process to ensure a smooth transition.
Yes, you can update or change your pre-planned arrangements at any time. Life circumstances and preferences change, and your funeral plan can be adjusted accordingly. We recommend reviewing your plan periodically to ensure it still reflects your wishes.
When you pre-fund your funeral arrangements, you're typically protected against future price increases for the services and merchandise you've selected. This is one of the financial benefits of pre-funding – you lock in today's prices regardless of future inflation.
Yes, we strongly recommend informing your family about your pre-arrangements. Let them know that you've made these plans and where the documentation is located. This ensures they're aware of your wishes and know to contact A. Barrett Funeral Services when the time comes. Open communication can prevent confusion and ensure your wishes are followed.