VITAL INFORMATION ON FUNERAL PLANNING AND SAVING MONEY ON
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS. PROFESSIONAL ADVICE BY FUNERAL
DIRECTOR. MAKING FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS IS A DIFFICULT PROCESS
AND CAN BE VERY STRESSFUL, THAT IS WHY I HAVE PREPARED THIS SITE
TO GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE FUNERAL ARRANGEMENT PROCESS.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
TYPES OF FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS: WHEN YOU MAKE YOUR FUNERAL
ARRANGEMENTS IN ADVANCE YOU ARE MAKING A PRE-ARRANGEMENT.
BY DOING THIS YOUR FAMILY DOES NOT HAVE THE STRESS OF DEALING
WITH ARRANGEMENTS WHEN DEATH OCCURS. ALSO, IT GIVES YOU
COMFORT IN KNOWING THAT YOUR FUNERAL WILL TAKE PLACE
ACCORDING TO YOUR OWN WISHES. AT NEED ARRANGEMENTS MEAN
THAT THERE IS A DEATH AND ARRANGEMENTS HAVE TO BE MADE OR
FINALIZED. BE ADVISED THAT SOME FUNERAL SERVICE PROVIDERS WILL
LOCK IN THEIR CURRENT FUNERAL HOME CHARGES WHEN YOU MAKE A
PRE-ARRANGEMENT. WHAT THIS MEANS IS THAT SHOULD THEIR
FUNERAL HOME CHARGES INCREASE IN THE FUTURE , IT WILL NOT
EFFECT YOUR PRE-ARRANGEMENT. REMEMBER NOT ALL FUNERAL
HOMES OFFER THIS SERVICE.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
WHAT YOU NEED TO ASK YOUR DIRECTOR WHEN INQUIRING OR MAKING
A PRE-ARRANGEMENT?
CAN I CANCEL THE CONTRACT AT ANY TIME AND GET A FULL REFUND.
CAN THE PRE-ARRANGEMENT BE TRANSFERRED TO ANOTHER FUNERAL
HOME. WHAT HAPPENS TO THE INTEREST ON THE ACCOUNT, WHAT
HAPPENS IF THE FIRM GOES OUT OF BUSINESS, WHAT HAPPENS TO THE
MONEY ON THE ACCOUNT,
STATES HAVE DIFFERENT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE HANDLING OF FUNDS
PAID FOR PRE-ARRANGED FUNERALS. WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMEONE IS ON
MEDICAID OR SSI AND WILL BE ENTERING A NURSING HOME, DOES
MEDICAID AND SSI ALLOW THEM TO SET ASIDE MONIES FOR A
PRE-ARRANGEMENT. SOME STATES ALLOW FUNERAL SERVICE
PROVIDERS TO ACCEPT LIFE INSURANCE, FOR PRE-ARRANGEMENTS. IF I
MAY OFFER SOME ADVICE, WHEN MAKING FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS,
WHETHER AT NEED OR A PRE-ARRANGEMENT, HAVE A FRIEND OR A
RELATIVE GO WITH YOU, SOMEONE WHO IS NOT EMOTIONALLY
INVOLVED IN THE ARRANGEMENTS. THIS WILL HELP YOU KEEP A CLEAR
PERSPECTIVE ON THE FUNERAL COSTS. REMEMBER WHEN YOU MAKE A
PRE-ARRANGEMENT IT RELIEVES SOME OF THE STRESS WHEN DEALING
WITH THE DEATH OF A LOVED ONE.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
FUNERAL SERVICES: THE LEAST EXPENSIVE SERVICE IS A DIRECT
CREMATION/DIRECT BURIAL. NO FAMILY PRESENT AT CEMETERY OR
CREMATORY, NO EMBALMING AND NO RELIGIOUS SERVICE. FULL
SERVICE FUNERAL INCLUDES VIEWING, EMBALMING AND RELIGIOUS
SERVICE. SPEAK WITH YOUR DIRECTOR, THEY WILL GO OVER THEM
WITH YOU IN DETAIL. MAKE SURE TO ASK QUESTIONS DURING THE
ARRANGEMENT CONFERENCE, IF YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND A
PARTICULAR TYPE OF SERVICE, AND REMEMBER DO NOT BE PRESSURED
INTO PURCHASING A SERVICE YOU CANNOT AFFORD. MOST FUNERAL
HOMES WILL ASSIST YOU IN PURCHASING A SERVICE THAT IS WITHIN
YOUR BUDGET. IF YOU CHOOSE CREMATION , YOU WILL NEED TO
PURCHASE A URN, TO PLACE THE CREMAINS IN. YOU CAN PURCHASE ONE
AT THE FUNERAL HOME OR CREMATORY. WHERE TO KEEP THE URN,
SPEAK WITH YOUR DIRECTOR, THERE ARE SEVERAL OPTIONS AVAILABLE
TO YOU. THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION REQUIRE ALL FUNERAL
HOMES TO SUPPLY YOU WITH A GENERAL PRICE LIST , CASKET PRICE
LIST, OUTER BOX OR VAULT PRICE LIST. THERE ARE TWO BASIC TYPES
OF CASKETS , METAL AND WOOD . HARDWOOD CASKETS, SUCH AS
MAHOGANY, MAPLE,CHERRY AND OAK ARE MORE EXPENSIVE THAN SOFT
WOODS SUCH AS YOUR BASIC POPLAR OR PLAIN WOOD. METAL CASKETS
ARE USUALLY PRICED ON THE THICKNESS OF THE METAL. SPEAK WITH
YOUR FUNERAL DIRECTOR THEY WILL HELP YOU MAKE THE RIGHT
CHOICE. MOST FUNERAL HOMES HAVE A CASKET SHOWROOM WHERE
YOU CAN MAKE YOUR SELECTION. ALL CASKETS IN THE SHOWROOM
MUST HAVE THE PRICE DISPLAYED. BURIAL VAULT PROTECTS THE
CASKET WHEN IT IS PLACED IN THE GRAVE. SOME CEMETERIES REQUIRE
A BURIAL VAULT, YOUR DIRECTOR WILL ADVISE YOU. WHEN MAKING
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS , YOU WILL BE PRESENTED WITH A FORM
CALLED STATEMENT OF FUNERAL GOODS AND SERVICES. THIS
DOCUMENT WILL SHOW THE PRICE OF EVERY ITEM THAT YOU HAVE
PURCHASED. YOU WILL NOTICE AS YOU CONTINUE ON THIS PAGE, THAT I
WILL REPEAT CERTAIN DEFINITIONS& INFORMATION THAT IS VITAL FOR
YOU TO MAKE INFORMED CHOICES WHEN MAKING OR INQUIRING ABOUT
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
TELEPHONE INQUIRIES: BE ADVISED THAT FUNERAL HOMES ARE
REQUIRED TO QUOTE THEIR GENERAL PRICE LIST WHEN CONSUMERS
CALL FOR FUNERAL PRICES.
THE AVERAGE COST OF A FUNERAL IN THE UNITED STATES IS OVER
$6,200 WHICH INCLUDES CASKET AND BURIAL VAULT.
THIS DOES NOT INCLUDE CEMETERY COSTS, MEMORIAL CARDS,
FLOWERS, OBITUARY NOTICE AND LIMOUSINES. SOME TRADITIONAL
FUNERALS COST OVER $10,000. PROTECT YOURSELF. YOU NEED TO HAVE
LIFE INSURANCE. THIS SITE PROVIDES INFORMATION ON HOW TO
OBTAIN LOW COST LIFE INSURANCE.
IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A CEMETERY PLOT PURCHASE ONE BEFORE THERE
IS A DEATH, SOME CEMETERIES HAVE PAYMENT PLANS, SPEAK WITH
YOUR DIRECTOR. OR LOG ON TO GOOGLE CUSTOM SEARCH FOR
IMMEDIATE INFORMATION.
IF YOUR RELIGION PERMITS CREMATION IS LESS EXPENSIVE
THAN TRADITIONAL BURIALS. IF YOU SELECT CREMATION PACE MAKERS
AND OTHER MEDICAL DEVICES MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE DECEASED
PRIOR TO THE CREMATION. THE REASON BEING THAT THESE DEVICES
COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE EQUIPMENT. SPEAK WITH YOUR
FUNERAL DIRECTOR FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE CREMATION
PROCESS.
FOR SOCIAL SECURITY SURVIVOR BENEFITS LOG ON TO
www.socialsecurity.gov OR CALL 1-800-772-1213. ALL FUNERAL HOMES
ARE REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF DEATH TO ADVISE THE SOCIAL SECURITY
ADMINISTRATION, THEN IF APPLICABLE SOCIAL SECURITY WILL
CONTACT THE NEXT OF KIN TO ADVISE THEM ABOUT BENEFITS. FOR
MORE INFORMATION , LOG ON TO THE SOCIAL SECURITY
ADMINISTRATION WEB SITE. PLEASE NOTE, THAT YOU CAN APPLY FOR
BENEFITS ON LINE.
WILLS AND ESTATE PLANNING. FOR MORE INFORMATION LOG ON TO
www.nolo.com OR CONTACT YOUR ESTATE ATTORNEY. WHEN YOU HAVE
A WILL YOU ARE SECURE IN KNOWING THAT YOUR FINAL WISHES WILL
BE CARRIED OUT. TALK WITH AN ESTATE ATTORNEY TODAY.
VETERANS WHO RECEIVE A HONORABLE DISCHARGE ARE ENTITLED TO
FREE BURIAL AT A NATIONAL CEMETERY.
FOR MORE INFORMATION LOG ON TO www.va.gov OR CALL
1-800-827-1000. OR LOG ON TO GOOGLE CUSTOM SEARCH TO CONNECT
TO V.A. SITES . YOU MUST HAVE YOUR DISCHARGE PAPERS DD214 TO
ORDER A NEW GRAVE . FOR FUNERAL SERVICE EMERGENCIES FOR
VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES CALL 1-866-770-6791
BE ADVISED THAT MOST FUNERAL HOMES ACCEPT LIFE INSURANCE FOR
AT NEED ARRANGEMENTS AND MAJOR CREDIT CARDS. THERE ARE SOME
STATES THAT ALLOW FUNERAL SERVICE PROVIDERS TO ACCEPT LIFE
INSURANCE FOR PRE-ARRANGEMENTS. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU ASK
YOUR FUNERAL DIRECTOR WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT THE FUNERAL
HOME ACCEPTS.
IF YOU NEED TO FILE A COMPLAINT AGAINST A FUNERAL HOME, YOU CAN
DO THE FOLLOWING, CONTACT YOUR STATE FUNERAL DIRECTORS
ASSOCIATION OR YOUR STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH.
SO THAT YOU CAN MAKE INFORMED DECISIONS WHEN MAKING OR
INQUIRING ABOUT FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS , YOU WILL NEED TO
KNOW THE DEFINITION OF CERTAIN ITEMS THAT YOU WILL BE
PURCHASING DURING THE ARRANGEMENT
CONFERENCE. REMEMBER YOU WILL BE PROVIDED WITH A DOCUMENT
CALLED STATEMENT OF FUNERAL GOODS AND SERVICES WHICH WILL
SHOW THE PRICE OF EVERY ITEM YOU HAVE PURCHASED.
EMBALMING- TEMPORARY PRESERVATION OF HUMAN REMAINS
THROUGH CHEMICAL INJECTION. EMBALMING MAY NOT BE REQUIRED BY
THE LAWS OF YOUR STATE, HOWEVER,
IF YOU SELECT A SERVICE WITH VIEWING THE FUNERAL HOME CAN MAKE
IT A REQUIREMENT.
DIRECT BURIAL/DIRECT CREMATION- THE LEAST EXPENSIVE TYPE OF
SERVICE. NO EMBALMING, USUALLY NO RELIGIOUS SERVICE, NO FAMILY
PRESENT AT CEMETERY OR CREMATORY.
FULL SERVICE FUNERAL/TRADITIONAL FUNERAL SERVICE- SERVICE
WITH OPEN CASKET(EMBALMING USUALLY REQUIRED) VISITATION AT
FUNERAL HOME AND RELIGIOUS SERVICE. YOU CAN STILL HAVE A
TRADITIONAL SERVICE IF YOU CHOOSE CREMATION.
CASKETS- BASICALLY TWO TYPES OF CASKETS METAL AND WOOD.
CREMATION, USUALLY REQUIRES A WOODEN CASKET.
BURIAL VAULT- TO PROTECT THE CASKET WHEN IT IS PLACED IN THE
GRAVE . SOME CEMETERIES MAKE IT A REQUIREMENT. SPEAK WITH
YOUR FUNERAL DIRECTOR.
URN- RECEPTACLE TO HOLD THE CREMAINS (ASHES)
CAN BE PURCHASED AT THE FUNERAL HOME OR CREMATORY.
NICHE- A PERMANENT RECEPTACLE TO HOLD THE URN, USUALLY
LOCATED IN THE CEMETERY OR CREMATORY.
DISPOSITION- REFERS TO ANY MANNER IN WHICH HUMAN REMAINS ARE
FINALLY TAKEN CARE OF. EXAMPLE : EARTH BURIAL, CREMATION,
ENTOMBMENT (ABOVE GROUND BURIAL)
DEATH CERTIFICATE- LEGAL DOCUMENT SIGNED BY THE CORONER OR
OTHER MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL CERTIFYING THE DEATH OF AN
INDIVUAL.
EXECUTOR/EXECUTRIX- MALE OR FEMALE NAMED AS THE PERSON WHO
ADMINISTERS AN ESTATE, AND THEY CAN MAKE FUNERAL
ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE DECEASED.
OPENING & CLOSING OF A GRAVE- CEMETERY CHARGES FOR THE DIGGING
AND REFILLING OF A GRAVE.
MAUSOLEUM- STRUCTURE OFTEN LOCATED AT A CEMETERY THAT
HOLDS CASKETS AND HUMAN REMAINS.
FINDING THE RIGHT FUNERAL HOME YOU CAN DO THE FOLLOWING,
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL CLERGY, STATE FUNERAL DIRECTORS
ASSOCIATION (USUALLY LOCATED IN YOUR STATE CAPITAL) OR LOG ON
TO www.nfda.org, NATIONAL FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION. THE
FOLLOWING CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS CAN HELP YOU SELECT THE RIGHT
FUNERAL HOME, YOUR LOCAL CHAPTERS OF THE KNIGHTS OF
COLUMBUS OR MASONS. ALSO, YOUR LOCAL
AMERICAN LEGION OR VFW POST .YOU CAN ALSO SHOP AROUND, VISIT AT
LEAST 3 FUNERAL HOMES AND ASK FOR THEIR GENERAL PRICE LIST,ASK
QUESTIONS AND VIEW THEIR FACILITIES. WHEN DEATH OCCURS YOU
NEED TO CONTACT YOUR FUNERAL SERVICE PROVIDER AS SOON AS
POSSIBLE, SO THAT DECEASED CAN BE TRANSFERRED FROM THE PLACE
OF DEATH TO THE FUNERAL HOME FOR CARE AND PREPARATION. THEN
YOU WILL MEET WITH YOUR FUNERAL DIRECTOR SO THAT THEY CAN
COORDINATE THE ARRANGEMENTS AND THE FINAL DISPOSITION OF THE
DECEASED. WHEN YOU HAVE A DEATH EMERGENCY , IT IS IMPORTANT
TO PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION TO YOUR FUNERAL
DIRECTOR: FULL NAME OF THE DECEASED, PLACE OF DEATH, DATE OF
DEATH, NEXT OF KIN, AND THEIR ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBER,
SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER OF THE DECEASED. THIS INFORMATION MUST
BE GIVEN TO YOUR FUNERAL SERVICE PROVIDER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
ALSO, YOU MUST ADVISE YOUR FUNERAL DIRECTOR IF YOU HAVE A
PRE-ARRANGEMENT ON FILE AT THE TIME OF DEATH.
GRIEVING THE LOSS OF A LOVED ONE, YOU NEED TO DO THE FOLLOWING:
SEEK THE SUPPORT OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND IF NECESSARY A
BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU TALK TO OTHERS ABOUT YOUR
FEELINGS. TO LOCATE A BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP
LOG ON TO www.griefshare.org . ALSO, MANY RELIGIOUS
ORGANIZATIONS AND HOUSES OF WORSHIP HAVE SUPPORT GROUPS. YOU
CAN ,ALSO, ASK YOUR DOCTOR FOR A REFERRAL TO A COUNSELING
CENTER. WHEN SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS IN MOURNING , THE BEST
ADVICE I CAN GIVE YOU IS JUST BE SUPPORTIVE. NEVER SAY TIME HEALS
ALL WOUNDS OR I KNOW WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH. JUST BE
THERE FOR THEM.
EXPRESSIONS OF SYMPATHY- YOU CAN SEND A FUNERAL FLORAL PIECE,
MAKE A DONATION TO A CHARITY AS CHOSEN BY THE FAMILY OF THE
DECEASED, HAVE A TREE PLANTED IN MEMORY OF THE DECEASED, SEND
A SYMPATHY GIFT BASKET.
THE FOLLOWING WEB SITES WILL PROVIDE YOU DETAILED
INFORMATION ON HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS
AND FUNERAL GOODS AND SERVICES. www.dignifiedcaskets.com
www.funeralprice.com www.us-funerals.com www.netquote.com
www.nolo.com www.cemeterypropertybook.com
www.gravesolutions.com www.memoriallending.com www.va.gov
www.military.com www.cemetery.va.gov www.socialsecurity.gov
www.sbliusa.com www.legalzoom.com www.griefshare.org
www.neptunesociety.com www.nfda.org www.teleflora.com
www.stewleonardsgifts.com www.canadianfunerals.com
www.usaflorists.com
TO CONNECT TO THESE SITES IMMEDIATELY LOG ON TO GOOGLE CUSTOM
SEARCH THEN MAKE YOUR SELECTIONS. THESE SITES WILL PROVIDE YOU
WITH VITAL CONSUMER INFORMATION.
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS. PROFESSIONAL ADVICE BY FUNERAL
DIRECTOR. MAKING FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS IS A DIFFICULT PROCESS
AND CAN BE VERY STRESSFUL, THAT IS WHY I HAVE PREPARED THIS SITE
TO GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE FUNERAL ARRANGEMENT PROCESS.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
TYPES OF FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS: WHEN YOU MAKE YOUR FUNERAL
ARRANGEMENTS IN ADVANCE YOU ARE MAKING A PRE-ARRANGEMENT.
BY DOING THIS YOUR FAMILY DOES NOT HAVE THE STRESS OF DEALING
WITH ARRANGEMENTS WHEN DEATH OCCURS. ALSO, IT GIVES YOU
COMFORT IN KNOWING THAT YOUR FUNERAL WILL TAKE PLACE
ACCORDING TO YOUR OWN WISHES. AT NEED ARRANGEMENTS MEAN
THAT THERE IS A DEATH AND ARRANGEMENTS HAVE TO BE MADE OR
FINALIZED. BE ADVISED THAT SOME FUNERAL SERVICE PROVIDERS WILL
LOCK IN THEIR CURRENT FUNERAL HOME CHARGES WHEN YOU MAKE A
PRE-ARRANGEMENT. WHAT THIS MEANS IS THAT SHOULD THEIR
FUNERAL HOME CHARGES INCREASE IN THE FUTURE , IT WILL NOT
EFFECT YOUR PRE-ARRANGEMENT. REMEMBER NOT ALL FUNERAL
HOMES OFFER THIS SERVICE.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
WHAT YOU NEED TO ASK YOUR DIRECTOR WHEN INQUIRING OR MAKING
A PRE-ARRANGEMENT?
CAN I CANCEL THE CONTRACT AT ANY TIME AND GET A FULL REFUND.
CAN THE PRE-ARRANGEMENT BE TRANSFERRED TO ANOTHER FUNERAL
HOME. WHAT HAPPENS TO THE INTEREST ON THE ACCOUNT, WHAT
HAPPENS IF THE FIRM GOES OUT OF BUSINESS, WHAT HAPPENS TO THE
MONEY ON THE ACCOUNT,
STATES HAVE DIFFERENT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE HANDLING OF FUNDS
PAID FOR PRE-ARRANGED FUNERALS. WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMEONE IS ON
MEDICAID OR SSI AND WILL BE ENTERING A NURSING HOME, DOES
MEDICAID AND SSI ALLOW THEM TO SET ASIDE MONIES FOR A
PRE-ARRANGEMENT. SOME STATES ALLOW FUNERAL SERVICE
PROVIDERS TO ACCEPT LIFE INSURANCE, FOR PRE-ARRANGEMENTS. IF I
MAY OFFER SOME ADVICE, WHEN MAKING FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS,
WHETHER AT NEED OR A PRE-ARRANGEMENT, HAVE A FRIEND OR A
RELATIVE GO WITH YOU, SOMEONE WHO IS NOT EMOTIONALLY
INVOLVED IN THE ARRANGEMENTS. THIS WILL HELP YOU KEEP A CLEAR
PERSPECTIVE ON THE FUNERAL COSTS. REMEMBER WHEN YOU MAKE A
PRE-ARRANGEMENT IT RELIEVES SOME OF THE STRESS WHEN DEALING
WITH THE DEATH OF A LOVED ONE.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
FUNERAL SERVICES: THE LEAST EXPENSIVE SERVICE IS A DIRECT
CREMATION/DIRECT BURIAL. NO FAMILY PRESENT AT CEMETERY OR
CREMATORY, NO EMBALMING AND NO RELIGIOUS SERVICE. FULL
SERVICE FUNERAL INCLUDES VIEWING, EMBALMING AND RELIGIOUS
SERVICE. SPEAK WITH YOUR DIRECTOR, THEY WILL GO OVER THEM
WITH YOU IN DETAIL. MAKE SURE TO ASK QUESTIONS DURING THE
ARRANGEMENT CONFERENCE, IF YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND A
PARTICULAR TYPE OF SERVICE, AND REMEMBER DO NOT BE PRESSURED
INTO PURCHASING A SERVICE YOU CANNOT AFFORD. MOST FUNERAL
HOMES WILL ASSIST YOU IN PURCHASING A SERVICE THAT IS WITHIN
YOUR BUDGET. IF YOU CHOOSE CREMATION , YOU WILL NEED TO
PURCHASE A URN, TO PLACE THE CREMAINS IN. YOU CAN PURCHASE ONE
AT THE FUNERAL HOME OR CREMATORY. WHERE TO KEEP THE URN,
SPEAK WITH YOUR DIRECTOR, THERE ARE SEVERAL OPTIONS AVAILABLE
TO YOU. THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION REQUIRE ALL FUNERAL
HOMES TO SUPPLY YOU WITH A GENERAL PRICE LIST , CASKET PRICE
LIST, OUTER BOX OR VAULT PRICE LIST. THERE ARE TWO BASIC TYPES
OF CASKETS , METAL AND WOOD . HARDWOOD CASKETS, SUCH AS
MAHOGANY, MAPLE,CHERRY AND OAK ARE MORE EXPENSIVE THAN SOFT
WOODS SUCH AS YOUR BASIC POPLAR OR PLAIN WOOD. METAL CASKETS
ARE USUALLY PRICED ON THE THICKNESS OF THE METAL. SPEAK WITH
YOUR FUNERAL DIRECTOR THEY WILL HELP YOU MAKE THE RIGHT
CHOICE. MOST FUNERAL HOMES HAVE A CASKET SHOWROOM WHERE
YOU CAN MAKE YOUR SELECTION. ALL CASKETS IN THE SHOWROOM
MUST HAVE THE PRICE DISPLAYED. BURIAL VAULT PROTECTS THE
CASKET WHEN IT IS PLACED IN THE GRAVE. SOME CEMETERIES REQUIRE
A BURIAL VAULT, YOUR DIRECTOR WILL ADVISE YOU. WHEN MAKING
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS , YOU WILL BE PRESENTED WITH A FORM
CALLED STATEMENT OF FUNERAL GOODS AND SERVICES. THIS
DOCUMENT WILL SHOW THE PRICE OF EVERY ITEM THAT YOU HAVE
PURCHASED. YOU WILL NOTICE AS YOU CONTINUE ON THIS PAGE, THAT I
WILL REPEAT CERTAIN DEFINITIONS& INFORMATION THAT IS VITAL FOR
YOU TO MAKE INFORMED CHOICES WHEN MAKING OR INQUIRING ABOUT
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
TELEPHONE INQUIRIES: BE ADVISED THAT FUNERAL HOMES ARE
REQUIRED TO QUOTE THEIR GENERAL PRICE LIST WHEN CONSUMERS
CALL FOR FUNERAL PRICES.
THE AVERAGE COST OF A FUNERAL IN THE UNITED STATES IS OVER
$6,200 WHICH INCLUDES CASKET AND BURIAL VAULT.
THIS DOES NOT INCLUDE CEMETERY COSTS, MEMORIAL CARDS,
FLOWERS, OBITUARY NOTICE AND LIMOUSINES. SOME TRADITIONAL
FUNERALS COST OVER $10,000. PROTECT YOURSELF. YOU NEED TO HAVE
LIFE INSURANCE. THIS SITE PROVIDES INFORMATION ON HOW TO
OBTAIN LOW COST LIFE INSURANCE.
IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A CEMETERY PLOT PURCHASE ONE BEFORE THERE
IS A DEATH, SOME CEMETERIES HAVE PAYMENT PLANS, SPEAK WITH
YOUR DIRECTOR. OR LOG ON TO GOOGLE CUSTOM SEARCH FOR
IMMEDIATE INFORMATION.
IF YOUR RELIGION PERMITS CREMATION IS LESS EXPENSIVE
THAN TRADITIONAL BURIALS. IF YOU SELECT CREMATION PACE MAKERS
AND OTHER MEDICAL DEVICES MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE DECEASED
PRIOR TO THE CREMATION. THE REASON BEING THAT THESE DEVICES
COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE EQUIPMENT. SPEAK WITH YOUR
FUNERAL DIRECTOR FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE CREMATION
PROCESS.
FOR SOCIAL SECURITY SURVIVOR BENEFITS LOG ON TO
www.socialsecurity.gov OR CALL 1-800-772-1213. ALL FUNERAL HOMES
ARE REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF DEATH TO ADVISE THE SOCIAL SECURITY
ADMINISTRATION, THEN IF APPLICABLE SOCIAL SECURITY WILL
CONTACT THE NEXT OF KIN TO ADVISE THEM ABOUT BENEFITS. FOR
MORE INFORMATION , LOG ON TO THE SOCIAL SECURITY
ADMINISTRATION WEB SITE. PLEASE NOTE, THAT YOU CAN APPLY FOR
BENEFITS ON LINE.
WILLS AND ESTATE PLANNING. FOR MORE INFORMATION LOG ON TO
www.nolo.com OR CONTACT YOUR ESTATE ATTORNEY. WHEN YOU HAVE
A WILL YOU ARE SECURE IN KNOWING THAT YOUR FINAL WISHES WILL
BE CARRIED OUT. TALK WITH AN ESTATE ATTORNEY TODAY.
VETERANS WHO RECEIVE A HONORABLE DISCHARGE ARE ENTITLED TO
FREE BURIAL AT A NATIONAL CEMETERY.
FOR MORE INFORMATION LOG ON TO www.va.gov OR CALL
1-800-827-1000. OR LOG ON TO GOOGLE CUSTOM SEARCH TO CONNECT
TO V.A. SITES . YOU MUST HAVE YOUR DISCHARGE PAPERS DD214 TO
ORDER A NEW GRAVE . FOR FUNERAL SERVICE EMERGENCIES FOR
VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES CALL 1-866-770-6791
BE ADVISED THAT MOST FUNERAL HOMES ACCEPT LIFE INSURANCE FOR
AT NEED ARRANGEMENTS AND MAJOR CREDIT CARDS. THERE ARE SOME
STATES THAT ALLOW FUNERAL SERVICE PROVIDERS TO ACCEPT LIFE
INSURANCE FOR PRE-ARRANGEMENTS. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU ASK
YOUR FUNERAL DIRECTOR WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT THE FUNERAL
HOME ACCEPTS.
IF YOU NEED TO FILE A COMPLAINT AGAINST A FUNERAL HOME, YOU CAN
DO THE FOLLOWING, CONTACT YOUR STATE FUNERAL DIRECTORS
ASSOCIATION OR YOUR STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH.
SO THAT YOU CAN MAKE INFORMED DECISIONS WHEN MAKING OR
INQUIRING ABOUT FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS , YOU WILL NEED TO
KNOW THE DEFINITION OF CERTAIN ITEMS THAT YOU WILL BE
PURCHASING DURING THE ARRANGEMENT
CONFERENCE. REMEMBER YOU WILL BE PROVIDED WITH A DOCUMENT
CALLED STATEMENT OF FUNERAL GOODS AND SERVICES WHICH WILL
SHOW THE PRICE OF EVERY ITEM YOU HAVE PURCHASED.
EMBALMING- TEMPORARY PRESERVATION OF HUMAN REMAINS
THROUGH CHEMICAL INJECTION. EMBALMING MAY NOT BE REQUIRED BY
THE LAWS OF YOUR STATE, HOWEVER,
IF YOU SELECT A SERVICE WITH VIEWING THE FUNERAL HOME CAN MAKE
IT A REQUIREMENT.
DIRECT BURIAL/DIRECT CREMATION- THE LEAST EXPENSIVE TYPE OF
SERVICE. NO EMBALMING, USUALLY NO RELIGIOUS SERVICE, NO FAMILY
PRESENT AT CEMETERY OR CREMATORY.
FULL SERVICE FUNERAL/TRADITIONAL FUNERAL SERVICE- SERVICE
WITH OPEN CASKET(EMBALMING USUALLY REQUIRED) VISITATION AT
FUNERAL HOME AND RELIGIOUS SERVICE. YOU CAN STILL HAVE A
TRADITIONAL SERVICE IF YOU CHOOSE CREMATION.
CASKETS- BASICALLY TWO TYPES OF CASKETS METAL AND WOOD.
CREMATION, USUALLY REQUIRES A WOODEN CASKET.
BURIAL VAULT- TO PROTECT THE CASKET WHEN IT IS PLACED IN THE
GRAVE . SOME CEMETERIES MAKE IT A REQUIREMENT. SPEAK WITH
YOUR FUNERAL DIRECTOR.
URN- RECEPTACLE TO HOLD THE CREMAINS (ASHES)
CAN BE PURCHASED AT THE FUNERAL HOME OR CREMATORY.
NICHE- A PERMANENT RECEPTACLE TO HOLD THE URN, USUALLY
LOCATED IN THE CEMETERY OR CREMATORY.
DISPOSITION- REFERS TO ANY MANNER IN WHICH HUMAN REMAINS ARE
FINALLY TAKEN CARE OF. EXAMPLE : EARTH BURIAL, CREMATION,
ENTOMBMENT (ABOVE GROUND BURIAL)
DEATH CERTIFICATE- LEGAL DOCUMENT SIGNED BY THE CORONER OR
OTHER MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL CERTIFYING THE DEATH OF AN
INDIVUAL.
EXECUTOR/EXECUTRIX- MALE OR FEMALE NAMED AS THE PERSON WHO
ADMINISTERS AN ESTATE, AND THEY CAN MAKE FUNERAL
ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE DECEASED.
OPENING & CLOSING OF A GRAVE- CEMETERY CHARGES FOR THE DIGGING
AND REFILLING OF A GRAVE.
MAUSOLEUM- STRUCTURE OFTEN LOCATED AT A CEMETERY THAT
HOLDS CASKETS AND HUMAN REMAINS.
FINDING THE RIGHT FUNERAL HOME YOU CAN DO THE FOLLOWING,
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL CLERGY, STATE FUNERAL DIRECTORS
ASSOCIATION (USUALLY LOCATED IN YOUR STATE CAPITAL) OR LOG ON
TO www.nfda.org, NATIONAL FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION. THE
FOLLOWING CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS CAN HELP YOU SELECT THE RIGHT
FUNERAL HOME, YOUR LOCAL CHAPTERS OF THE KNIGHTS OF
COLUMBUS OR MASONS. ALSO, YOUR LOCAL
AMERICAN LEGION OR VFW POST .YOU CAN ALSO SHOP AROUND, VISIT AT
LEAST 3 FUNERAL HOMES AND ASK FOR THEIR GENERAL PRICE LIST,ASK
QUESTIONS AND VIEW THEIR FACILITIES. WHEN DEATH OCCURS YOU
NEED TO CONTACT YOUR FUNERAL SERVICE PROVIDER AS SOON AS
POSSIBLE, SO THAT DECEASED CAN BE TRANSFERRED FROM THE PLACE
OF DEATH TO THE FUNERAL HOME FOR CARE AND PREPARATION. THEN
YOU WILL MEET WITH YOUR FUNERAL DIRECTOR SO THAT THEY CAN
COORDINATE THE ARRANGEMENTS AND THE FINAL DISPOSITION OF THE
DECEASED. WHEN YOU HAVE A DEATH EMERGENCY , IT IS IMPORTANT
TO PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION TO YOUR FUNERAL
DIRECTOR: FULL NAME OF THE DECEASED, PLACE OF DEATH, DATE OF
DEATH, NEXT OF KIN, AND THEIR ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBER,
SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER OF THE DECEASED. THIS INFORMATION MUST
BE GIVEN TO YOUR FUNERAL SERVICE PROVIDER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
ALSO, YOU MUST ADVISE YOUR FUNERAL DIRECTOR IF YOU HAVE A
PRE-ARRANGEMENT ON FILE AT THE TIME OF DEATH.
GRIEVING THE LOSS OF A LOVED ONE, YOU NEED TO DO THE FOLLOWING:
SEEK THE SUPPORT OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND IF NECESSARY A
BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU TALK TO OTHERS ABOUT YOUR
FEELINGS. TO LOCATE A BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP
LOG ON TO www.griefshare.org . ALSO, MANY RELIGIOUS
ORGANIZATIONS AND HOUSES OF WORSHIP HAVE SUPPORT GROUPS. YOU
CAN ,ALSO, ASK YOUR DOCTOR FOR A REFERRAL TO A COUNSELING
CENTER. WHEN SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS IN MOURNING , THE BEST
ADVICE I CAN GIVE YOU IS JUST BE SUPPORTIVE. NEVER SAY TIME HEALS
ALL WOUNDS OR I KNOW WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH. JUST BE
THERE FOR THEM.
EXPRESSIONS OF SYMPATHY- YOU CAN SEND A FUNERAL FLORAL PIECE,
MAKE A DONATION TO A CHARITY AS CHOSEN BY THE FAMILY OF THE
DECEASED, HAVE A TREE PLANTED IN MEMORY OF THE DECEASED, SEND
A SYMPATHY GIFT BASKET.
THE FOLLOWING WEB SITES WILL PROVIDE YOU DETAILED
INFORMATION ON HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS
AND FUNERAL GOODS AND SERVICES. www.dignifiedcaskets.com
www.funeralprice.com www.us-funerals.com www.netquote.com
www.nolo.com www.cemeterypropertybook.com
www.gravesolutions.com www.memoriallending.com www.va.gov
www.military.com www.cemetery.va.gov www.socialsecurity.gov
www.sbliusa.com www.legalzoom.com www.griefshare.org
www.neptunesociety.com www.nfda.org www.teleflora.com
www.stewleonardsgifts.com www.canadianfunerals.com
www.usaflorists.com
TO CONNECT TO THESE SITES IMMEDIATELY LOG ON TO GOOGLE CUSTOM
SEARCH THEN MAKE YOUR SELECTIONS. THESE SITES WILL PROVIDE YOU
WITH VITAL CONSUMER INFORMATION.
FUNERAL PLANNING SHEET FOR CONSUMERS
____________________________________________________________
TYPES OF FUNERAL SERVICES:
_____________________________________
TRADITIONAL SERVICE WITH BURIAL
TRADITIONAL SERVICE WITH CREMATION
TRADITIONAL SERVICE WITH ENTOMBMENT
ENTOMBMENT-ABOVE GROUND BURIAL
DIRECT BURIAL/DIRECT CREMATION
TRADITIONAL SERVICE INCLUDES VIEWING (EMBALMING USUALLY REQUIRED)
RELIGIOUS SERVICE EITHER AT THE FUNERAL HOME OR YOUR PLACE OF WORSHIP.
THERE ARE USUALLY OTHER FUNERAL SERVICE ITEMS THAT ARE PURCHASED WITH THIS TYPE OF
SERVICE, I WILL EXPLAIN THEM TO YOU AS WE CONTINUE WITH THIS FUNERAL PLANNING CONSUMER
WORKSHEET.
DIRECT BURIAL/DIRECT CREMATION NO FAMILY OR FRIENDS PRESENT AT THE CEMETERY OR
CREMATORY, NO EMBALMING AND NO RELIGIOUS SERVICE.
USUALLY THERE IS A MEMORIAL SERVICE SCHEDULED . WHAT IS A MEMORIAL SERVICE? SERVICE AT
THE FUNERAL HOME OR YOUR PLACE OF WORSHIP WITHOUT THE DECEASED BEING PRESENT.
MOST FUNERAL HOMES HAVE A STANDARD PRICE FOR A DIRECT CREMATION/DIRECTBURIAL,
ADDITIONAL COSTS WOULD BE THE OPENING OF THE GRAVE OR CREMATORY CHARGES, PLUS THE COST
OF THE DEATH CERTIFICATES.
IF YOU CHOOSE A DIRECT CREMATION THE DECEASED IS USUALLY PLACED IN ALTERNATIVE CONTAINER.
WHAT IS AN ALTERNATIVE CONTAINER? IT IS A PLAIN CARDBOARD TYPE BOX. WITH A DIRECT BURIAL
THE DECEASED IS PLACED IN A PLAIN WOOD CASKET. KEEP IN MIND YOU HAVE THE OPTION OF
UPGRADING TO A MORE EXPENSIVE CASKET. ALSO, IF YOU CHOOSE CREMATION WITH A TRADITIONAL
SERVICE YOU WILL NEED TO PURCHASE A WOODEN CASKET.
THIS IS USUALLY A REQUIREMENT BY THE CREMATORY.
WHERE TO PLACE THE CREMATED REMAINS AFTER THEY ARE PLACED IN A URN.
USUALLY IN A COLUMBARIUM, A STRUCTURE WITH NICHES(SMALL SPACES)FOR PLACING CREMATED
REMAINS IN URNS. COLUMBARIUM IS USUALLY LOCATED IN A SPECIAL SECTION OF THE CEMETERY.
SPEAK WITH YOUR DIRECTOR FOR MORE INFORMATION.
WHEN YOU MAKE FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS (INCLUDING PRE-ARRANGEMENTS)
MOST FUNERAL HOMES WILL PRESENT YOU WITH A DOCUMENT CALLED "STATEMENT OF FUNERAL
GOODS AND SERVICES". THIS DOCUMENT WILL SHOW THE PRICE OF EVERY ITEM THAT YOU HAVE
PURCHASED.
EXAMPLE "STATEMENT OF FUNERAL GOODS AND SERVICES"
removal of deceased (place of death) $_______charges for traditional service
embalming $_______charges for traditional service
dressing and casketing $_______charges for traditional service
(cosmetology)
arrangement conference $_______charges for traditional service
(with funeral director)
supervision at funeral home $_______charges for traditional service
(supervision by funeral director)
supervision at cemetery/crematory $_______charges for traditional service
(supervision by funeral director)
supervision at house of worship $_______charges for traditional service
(supervision by funeral director)
use of facilities (funeral home) $_______charges for traditional service
hearse $_______charges for traditional service
limousine(s) $_______charges for traditional service
flower car $_______charges for traditional service
casket $_______charges for traditional service
burial vault(to protect casket $________charges for traditional service
in grave or crypt)
crypt(space in mausoleum
that holds human remains)
when remains are placed in
a crypt in a mausoleum
it is a above ground burial
(entombment)
opening of grave $_______charges for traditional service & direct burial
cost of cremation $______charges for traditional service & direct cremation
flower car is usually requested by the family (depends on the volume of flowers sent)
there are items that you would purchase for a traditional service that are optional:
limousine(s)
prayer cards/acknowledgement cards
register book for visitation
religious items
flowers
death notice(newspaper)
burial clothing
religious service additional cost for pallbearers if service is at your place of worship.
(charged by clergy)
hairdressing(for women)
if you select a traditional service (open casket) and you can not provide clothing
for the deceased, most funeral homes do sell clothing (sometimes called burial garments)
if you select a traditional service, you will be charged for the basic arrangement conference.
to be specific, this charge includes the funeral director and other staff , equipment and facilities to
respond to your initial request for service. the arrangement conference involves securing the necessary
authorizations and coordination of service plan with both parties involved in the final disposition of the
deceased.
the cost of death certificates are not optional (cost of death certificates vary from state to state).
you will need an official copy of the death certificate to apply for the following survivor benefits:
social security survivor benefits, veterans burial and survivor benefits, life insurance policy,
pension and retirement benefits, union survivor benefits. ask your funeral director if you need help in
applying for these benefits at the time of death.
.
THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION FUNERAL RULE REQUIRE ALL FUNERAL SERVICE PROVIDERS TO DO
THE FOLLOWING : TO ADVISE THE CONSUMER THAT THEY HAVE THE RIGHT TO CHOOSE THE FUNERAL
GOODS AND SERVICES THAT THEY WANT AND THAT THE FUNERAL HOME MUST STATE THIS IN WRITING
ON THEIR GENERAL PRICE LIST. IF A STATE LAW REQUIRES THE CONSUMER TO PURCHASE A
PARTICULAR ITEM , THE FUNERAL HOME MUST DISCLOSE THIS
ON THEIR GENERAL PRICE LIST WITH REFERENCE TO THE SPECIFIC LAW.
A FUNERAL HOME THAT OFFERS CREMATION MUST MAKE ALTERNATIVE CONTAINERS AVAILABLE TO
THE CONSUMER. THE FUNERAL HOME CANNOT CHARGE A FEE OR REFUSE A CASKET PURCHASED BY THE
CONSUMER ELSEWHERE, THIS MUST BE STATED ON THE GENERAL PRICE LIST. FOR DETAILED
INFORMATION ON THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION FUNERAL
RULE LOG ON TO THEIR WEB SITE, www.ftc.org
FUNERAL HOMES IN THE UNITED STATES ARE NOT ONLY REGULATED BY FEDERAL AGENCIES BUT BY
LOCAL AND STATE AGENCIES. THIS IS TO PROTECT THE CONSUMER.
I WILL MENTION AGAIN HOW IMPORTANT IT IS TO HAVE A WILL. REMEMBER YOUR
WILL IS THE CORNERSTONE OF YOUR ESTATE PLAN. IT SPELLS OUT HOW YOUR ASSETS WILL BE
DISTRIBUTED AND HOW YOUR DEPENDENTS AND LOVED ONES WILL BE CARED FOR AFTER YOU ARE
GONE. IF A WILL IS PROPERLY PREPARED, WITNESSED, AND SIGNED, IT ENSURES THAT YOUR FINAL
WISHES WILL BE CARRIED OUT.
GENERAL INFORMATION ON WILLS AND ESTATE PLANNING:
1. IDENTIFY WHO WILL INHERIT YOUR ESTATE
2. WHO WILL DISTRIBUTE YOUR PROPERTY
3.NAME GUARDIANS FOR YOUR MINOR CHILDREN
4. CREATE A TRUST IF ANY MINORS WILL BE INHERITING YOUR ASSETS
5. CHOOSE AN EXECUTOR , THE EXECUTOR WILL CARRY OUT YOUR FINAL WISHES
AFTER YOU DIE. AN EXECUTOR COULD BE A FAMILY MEMBER OR AN ATTORNEY WITH LEGAL AND
FINANCIAL EXPERTISE.
IT IS ADVISABLE TO CONTACT AN ESTATE ATTORNEY, BECAUSE IF YOU DIE WITHOUT A WILL
THE PROBATE COURT WILL APPOINT AN ADMINISTRATOR TO OVERSEE YOUR ESTATE.
EVEN IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A FAMILY YOU STILL SHOULD SPEAK WITH AN ESTATE ATTORNEY.
WHICH LEGAL DOCUMENTS ARE RIGHT FOR YOU? SPEAK WITH YOUR ESTATE ATTORNEY.
LAST WILL & TESTAMENT- IS USED TO DISTRIBUTE PROPERTY TO BENEFICIARIES, SPECIFY LAST
WISHES, AND NAME GUARDIANS FOR MINOR CHILDREN.
LIVING TRUST- IS USED TO TRANSFER PROPERTY TO BENEFICIARIES, BUT UNLIKE A LAST WILL
A LIVING TRUST IS NOT USUALLY SUBJECT TO PROBATE COURT.
LIVING WILL- LETS YOU OUTLINE VITAL HEALTH CARE DECISIONS IN ADVANCE , SUCH AS WHETHER
OR NOT TO REMAIN ON LIFE SUPPORT IF YOU BECOME TERMINALLY ILL. A LIVING WILL CAN INCLUDE ,
HEALTH CARE POWER OF ATTORNEY THAT ALLOWS YOU TO APPOINT SOMEONE YOU
TRUST TO MAKE CRITICAL HEALTH CARE DECISIONS FOR YOU.
POWER OF ATTORNEY- ALLOWS YOU TO APPOINT SOMEONE YOU TRUST TO MANAGE YOUR
FINANCIAL AND LEGAL MATTERS ON YOUR BEHALF. YOU CAN CHOOSE TO HAVE IT TAKE EFFECT
IMMEDIATELY.
DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY- CAN BE IN EFFECT EVEN IF YOU BECOME MENTALLY INCAPACITATED
AND CAN LAST UNTIL DEATH.
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