10 Things to Include in Your Funeral Planning Checklist
Planning ahead can ease the burden on your loved ones. This funeral planning checklist helps you make sure nothing important gets missed. Whether you’re pre-planning for yourself or helping a loved one, these 10 simple steps will guide you through the funeral planning process with clarity and compassion. ORCA is here to protect what matters most, giving your family peace of mind during a difficult time.
For extra help, ORCA also offers a complimentary Final Wishes Planning Guide. It’s a simple booklet that helps you record your final wishes, financial information, and key contacts, all in one place.
1. Decide Between Burial or Cremation
The first big choice is whether you prefer a traditional burial or cremation. This decision affects many other parts of your funeral arrangements.
Consider Religious or Personal Beliefs
Faith and family traditions often shape this choice. Some prefer a traditional funeral with a viewing and graveside service, while others may want direct cremation followed by a celebration of life.
Understand the Cost Differences
Traditional burials often include a casket, headstone or grave marker, burial permit, and cemetery space. Cremation usually has fewer expenses, especially when using a crematory. Either way, ORCA’s Final Expense insurance can help cover these costs and protect your family from unexpected bills.
2. Choose a Funeral Home
A caring funeral home makes a big difference during a difficult time. A funeral director will help with important details like the death certificate and service planning.
Ask About Packages and Pricing
Most funeral homes offer service packages. These may include preparation, viewing, obituary assistance, and coordination with a cemetery or crematory. Ask for a clear price list. If you have a life insurance policy through ORCA, bring that information along.
Look for Local Options with Good Reviews
Choose a provider with strong reviews and compassionate service. ORCA helps families connect with trusted funeral homes to carry out their final wishes with care.
3. Write Down Your Service Preferences
Listing your preferences helps your memorial service reflect your life and values.
H3: Music, Readings, and Speakers
Write down favorite songs, scriptures, or poems. You can also name someone to give your eulogy or serve as a pallbearer.
Religious or Cultural Traditions
Whether you want a traditional funeral, a graveside service, or a celebration of life, be sure to include your wishes. These details help your family plan something meaningful and respectful.
4. Make a List of People to Notify
Planning ahead includes helping loved ones know who to contact.
Family and Friends
List the names and contact info for close friends and family. This makes it easier to send the obituary, arrange the type of service, and notify everyone you’d want there.
Insurance Companies and Employers
Your loved ones should contact your life insurance provider, like ORCA. They may also need to notify your employer or Social Security for final paperwork and benefits.
5. Set a Budget and Prepay if Desired
Funeral costs can add up quickly. Planning your budget ahead of time prevents stress later.
Final Expense Insurance Can Help
ORCA’s Final Expense insurance is designed to help cover funeral arrangements and related costs. It can ease the burden for your family, covering expenses like a graveside service, cremation, headstone, or even a celebration of life.
Keep Payment Records with the Plan
Keep your payment receipts, life insurance policy, and funeral contracts in one place. Include your date of birth, burial permit, and any documents your funeral director may need.
6. Store Your Funeral Planning Checklist in a Safe Place
Once your checklist is complete, keep it in a safe but accessible location.
Tell a Trusted Person Where It Is
A family member or friend should know where your final planning documents are. Include your checklist, life insurance information, and instructions for your final resting place, whether it’s a cemetery or elsewhere.
5 Simple FAQ
Q: What is a funeral planning checklist?
A: A funeral planning checklist is a list of steps and choices to help organize funeral or memorial plans in advance.
Q: Why is a funeral planning checklist important?
A: It helps loved ones know your wishes and reduces stress during a hard time.
Q: Should I include financial details in my funeral planning checklist?
A: Yes. Include your budget, any Final Expense or life insurance coverage, and pre-planned services.
Q: Can I change my funeral planning checklist later?
A: Yes, you can update it anytime if your preferences or situation change.
Q: Who should know about my funeral planning checklist?
A: A trusted family member or friend should know where it is and what it includes. This may include your pallbearers, final resting place, and type of service.
Taking the time to create a funeral planning checklist is a gift to your loved ones. It ensures your funeral arrangements, from the obituary to the headstone, are handled just the way you want. Whether you choose a traditional burial or cremation, a large funeral service or a quiet celebration of life. ORCA is here to help you protect what matters most. Ask your agent about Final Expense coverage, and don’t forget to request your complimentary Final Wishes Planning Guide to help you get everything organized in one place. Contact ORCA today to take the next step in protecting what matters most.
Founded with a commitment to protecting what matters most, ORCA Life Insurance Company offers a range of innovative insurance products designed to provide peace of mind and financial security and are tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals and families. At Orca, we prioritize customer satisfaction and strive to deliver exceptional service through a dedicated team of professionals. With a focus on transparency and integrity, we empower our clients to make informed decisions about their financial futures. To explore our offerings and discover how ORCA Life can help safeguard your dreams, visit https://orca.life/ or contact us at 844-851-3846.
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