The Benefits Of Planning Ahead

 

Most of us plan for the possible misfortunes of life, yet few of us prepare for the inevitable.

 

Many individuals and families are making the decision to prearrange and pre-fund their funerals before the need arises.

 

The advantages of funeral planning make sense.

 

Planning Your Funeral:

 

            Provides a peace of mind

            Relieves your loved ones of unnecessary concern

            Assures that your wishes are known

            Eases the financial burden on your family

 

The Purpose Of A Funeral

 

     A funeral service fills several important needs in today's society. First, it provides for the respectful care of the deceased, by providing a special tribute to a unique life. Equally important the funeral service helps survivors face the reality of death -- the first step in overcoming grief. A funeral brings together relatives and close friends who can lend support and comfort when needed most.

     A funeral also gives friends and relatives the opportunity to express the love and respect they feel for someone who was very important to them. Just seeing how much others cared can be a tremendous help to a family adjusting to their loss.

 

Providing For The Funeral

 

Traditionally, there have been three ways a family has provided for a funeral.

 

1. Level Death Benefit Life Insurance

      normally intended to cover ongoing living expenses for the family.

      usually requires waiting weeks or even months until proceeds are available.

      with inflation, proceeds may erode over time

      may involve disputes over contested claims.

 

2. Savings

     often depleted by the costs of illnesses before death.

     may be tied up in probate.

     may not be really accessible at the time of death.

     long-term savings may be reduced by taxes and early withdrawal penalties

 

3. Friends and Relatives

     places unexpected burden on those you care about most.

     may put survivors in an uncomfortable and embarrassing situation.

     can cause friction between loved ones.

     borrowed money must be repaid.

 

It's All Taken Care Of

 

When death occurs, one can call the funeral home is all that is needed to begin the funeral process. Your funeral director will carry out all the arrangements per your wishes, and benefits from your Forethought life insurance policy will be paid directly to the funeral home.

 

Paying For Your Funeral In Advance

 

Funeral planning has been designed to protect you and your family from future price increases. Although the average funeral is priced lower today than many people might assume, a funeral will almost surely cost more in the future. Therefore, if you are truly seeking peace of mind, it is important that the funding method you choose provides adequate growth to offset future price increases.

 

Areas of Special Concern

 

No matter what funeral plans you make, it is important to keep good records and to be sure that loved ones know where records are kept.

 

Drawing Up A Will Is Important

 

Every adult should have a will, regardless of age or financial situation. A will is a legal document that can prevent many serious problems for those you leave behind.

 

If you do not already have a will you should have one drawn up as soon as possible. It is in your own and your family's best interests.

 

Keeping Accurate Records

 

For your family's sake, write down everything you think the executor of your estate will need to know to carry out your wishes.

 

Be sure to list all biographical and financial information, including:

 

     location of your will

     information about insurance policies

     children's names, addresses, and telephone numbers

     bank accounts and securities

     safe deposit boxes

     benefit entitlements

     any other important documents

 

 

Make your arrangements before the need arises....for those you love.

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