Why to Consider Funeral Planning

from Cache Valley Family Magazine Fall 2021

David Archuleta to Return to Logan for Christmas Concert in November

Why to Consider Advanced Funeral Planning

JAMES STEPHENS funeral director, White Pine Funeral Services

Planning your own funeral may not be something you want to spend time considering, but advanced funeral planning benefits you and your family tremendously.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ADVANCED FUNERAL PLANNING? Primarily, you and your family receive peace of mind. You can rest easy knowing that your plan is in place and your family is relieved of having to make emotional and financial decisions.

Following an individual’s passing, there are over 100 decisions to be made within the first 48 hours. Advanced funeral planning allows family members to focus on their feelings and the grief process, knowing that the vast majority of decisions have already been made.

Additionally, you control the costs. By making selections at the funeral home and providing funding for them in advance, you control the cost, and funeral expenses are locked. Your surviving family will not need to make stressful and emotionally driven decisions regarding finances, and they can be certain you are receiving exactly what you want, without overspending.

Prefunding is a must for those who may need to qualify for government assistance, such as Medicaid. Prepaid plans may be irrevocable to ensure funds are protected for the specific purpose of final expenses.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO PREPLAN? No one really knows when their time will come. There are situations where advanced funeral planning doesn’t make sense. However, I would urge anyone approaching or beyond their retirement to consider advanced funeral planning.

There are options for everyone. For some, simply planning without funding is appropriate. For those who believe it’s in their best interest to fund in advance, plans range from singlepay plans and multi-year plans, which may be paid monthly, quarterly, or annually. Plans are also transferable. Should you decide to move out of the area, your plan travels with you.

CAN I MAKE CHANGES TO MY PLAN? Even if you have made decisions and paid for your funeral, you have the freedom to call any mortuary you’d like when the time comes. For example, if you’ve heard great things about White Pine Funeral Services and would like to switch, you certainly have the freedom to do so. You may lose a portion of your money, but White Pine will provide a discount to cover any fees or losses associated with switching.

White Pine Funeral Services focuses on serving families with excellent customer service, compassionate care, and integrity. Please call us or stop by for a visit. We are confident you’ll feel a difference.