Cremation service arrangements can be outlined and planed for either after a death has occurred or in advance of a passing. Preplanning can be done to guarantee your wishes are honored, to reduce an emotional burden on family, and for financial reasons to allow for budgeting and cost reduction. It is important to note, that preplanning does not necessarily require pre-payment. A plan can be made, and decisions can be outlined without necessarily contracting for goods and services.

First Step of Planning – Learning and exploring

The first step in planning a cremation is to learn about the different creation service options and explore the different placement alternatives both within and outside of a cemetery. Based on the type of service and the final placement of the cremated remains, the selection of the specific cemetery and funeral home will be easier and more appropriate. To learn more about cremation service options and cemetery options for cremated remains, please read the respective cemetery.com articles here.

Second Step of Planning – Shopping and choosing

The second step in planning a cremation is to learn about the specific goods and service offered by local cemeteries, funeral homes, and crematories. Based on the wishes you outlined in the first step, you will be able to make the most appropriate selection of firms to serve you and your family. To explore specific funeral homes and cemeteries use the cemetery.com directory.

Third Step of Planning – Arrangements and payments

The third step in planning a cremation is to make the specific selections of rites, rituals, goods, and services. These arrangements should be officially documented in both your records and the records of the cemetery, funeral home, and cremation provider. Pre-planning typically then involves legal contracting and pre-payment. Pre-payment may be made via an insurance contract or trusted funds. While the specifics of pre-payment vary by state, it is always important to make sure that the pre-paid monies are protected from the potential closure, merger, or acquisition of the firm.

Final Step of Planning – Share

Pre-planning is largely for the benefit of loved ones after you are gone. It is imperative that the responsible parties know that pre-arrangements have been made, with which firm(s), and who to contact at the time of a passing. Pre-arrangements should not be kept exclusively in a safety deposit box because most times the box will not be accessed until days or weeks after a funeral or cremation service. It may be uncomfortable for loved ones to hear, but pre-planning is truly a gift and they need to know if plans have been put into place.