Plan Ahead Archives - Funeral Basics

Sep 30

Will vs. Estate Plan: What’s the Difference?

By christy.kessler Educational, Estate Planning

According to a recent survey, around 68% of Americans don’t have a legal will, and the number of Americans with a full estate plan is even lower. Why are so few Americans looking to the future and preparing for the inevitable? Part of the issue may be that financial planning can feel complicated and confusing. To remove some of that hesitation, let’s talk about 4 key differences between a legal will and an estate plan. They aren’t the same thing!

But first, let’s start with a couple of definitions.

What is a Legal Will?

A legal will is a signed and witnessed document that outlines your wishes on three main topics: your financial assets, your property, and your dependents. In a legal will, you will break down how you want your money distributed and to whom, what should be done with your property (house, car, furniture, clothing, etc.), and who will act as guardian to minor children or pets. Additionally, you will name an executor, who’s responsible for carrying out every detail of your legal will.

Without a legal will, the fate of your assets, property, and dependents is left up to your state of residency. In some cases, your surviving family members may spend a lot of time, money, and energy gaining access to your assets, if they ever do.

What is an Estate Plan?

An estate plan refers to a broader strategy regarding your end-of-life wishes. While a legal will is one piece of an estate plan, a full estate plan focuses on providing clarity in additional areas like healthcare and powers of attorney.

From outlining your medical care wishes to designating a trusted person to act financially on your behalf, each estate planning document plays a role in creating a clear plan to understanding your preferences. Because everyone’s situation is different, chat with an estate planning attorney to confirm which documents best fit your circumstances.

But what are the key differences between a legal will and an estate plan? Let’s dive in!

4 Differences Between a Legal Will and an Estate Plan

Difference #1: A legal will focuses only on your wishes after death, while an estate plan looks at your preferences while still living.

With a legal will, you are only recording instructions for what to do after your passing. These directions largely relate to designating a guardian for minor children and stating who gets how much money and which property items (car, collectibles, jewelry, etc.).

On the other hand, an estate plan also provides direction on what to do should you become incapacitated or unable to make decisions on your own. For example, if you were to develop dementia or go into a coma after a car accident, a healthcare power of attorney would allow your chosen representative to make medical decisions on your behalf based on your outlined preferences.

Takeaway: A legal will provides guidance on the distribution of assets and the care of children. An estate plan includes a legal will but also covers other financial and medical concerns.

Difference #2: An estate plan includes more official documents than a legal will.

Because an estate plan has a wider focus, it makes sense that there are more documents to complete. While you may not need all these documents, it’s wise to thoughtfully assess and determine which ones make the most sense for your circumstances.

To learn more about each of the five most important estate planning documents, check out the resources below:

Takeaway: There are several documents to consider when creating an estate plan. When you complete the ones that make the most sense for you, you give your family a clear path to understanding how to accurately follow your wishes when it matters.

Difference #3: A legal will does not provide guidance on medical concerns.

With its narrow focus, the legal will does not allow you to outline your wishes regarding standard or life-saving medical care. That’s where advance care directives like a living will and a healthcare power of attorney step in.

When you complete these documents, you give your family a clear understanding of your medical dos and don’ts. Having this clarity is particularly important when you can’t speak for yourself and your family needs to know what to do.

You will work with your primary care provider to complete a living will and discuss the medical treatments you may or may not want performed.

Takeaway: By providing guidance on both financial AND medical concerns, you empower your family to make decisions with confidence if the day comes when they must act on your behalf.

Difference #4: An estate plan with a living trust allows your family to avoid probate court while a legal will does not.

Probate is the legal process where the court oversees the distribution of a person’s property after death. When the legal will is presented to and validated by the court, the executor will work with the court to ensure all directives in the will are carried out.

However, in most cases with a living trust, you can avoid probate court entirely. Because of the way trusts are set up, they allow you to bypass the court system and rely on your designated trustee to distribute your assets after your passing. Many families save time and money by setting up a trust instead of relying on probate court.

Takeaway: Talk with your estate planning attorney about whether a living trust makes sense for your situation. While having a written legal will should make probate court easy for your family, a living trust may help them skip the court system altogether.

Senior man talking about estate planning with son

So, do you need both a legal will and an estate plan? Absolutely! While a legal will can stand alone, if you pair it with a thoughtful estate plan, you can provide your family members with greater insight into your financial and healthcare wishes. With that information in hand, they can make decisions with confidence and ensure that you and your assets are taken care of just the way you want.

Additional Estate Planning Resources

How to Make an Estate Planning Checklist
5 Steps to Getting Your Affairs in Order
11 Reasons Why You Should Start Estate Planning Now
Avoid These 6 Estate Planning Misconceptions

DISCLAIMER: Individual circumstances and state laws vary, so any estate planning should only be undertaken with the help and assistance of an attorney licensed in your state.

Sep 30

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Separating Fact from Fiction: 5 Estate Planning Myths

By christy.kessler Educational, Estate Planning

Are you on the fence about estate planning? Does it seem like something that’s distant or a task for the future? You’re not alone. Many people put off estate planning or fail to complete it altogether. But estate planning is essential to both ensuring that your physical and financial assets are distributed the way YOU want and to communicating your medical care preferences if you become incapacitated.

So, the question is – do you believe any of these 5 myths? And are any of them preventing you from putting together an estate plan that will make your wishes clear to everyone?

DISCLAIMER: Individual circumstances and state laws vary, so only undertake estate planning with the help and assistance of an attorney licensed in your state.

Myth #1: Estate Planning is Only for the Wealthy

There’s no set magic number you need in your bank account to qualify for an estate plan. In reality, everyone has assets, such as a home or vehicle, bank accounts, personal belongings, or even digital accounts.

It does not matter if you have $500 or $50,000 to your name. Your survivors still need to know what to do with your money and belongings after your passing. They also need to know which of your digital accounts to cancel and which to turn into memorial pages.

Your life has more threads than you may think, and with an estate plan, you can provide clear direction for how you want everything taken care of.

Myth #2: Estate Planning is Only for the 65+ Age Group

While it would be wonderful if estate planning were only needed for the 65+ age group, the truth is that life is unpredictable. Most of us have seen a young, vibrant friend or family member pass away long before they reached retirement age.

With illness, accident, or tragedy always a possibility, adults of every age and family situation benefit from outlining their wishes in an estate plan. This is especially true for parents with minor children. An estate plan allows you to designate your preferred guardian and set up a fund that will financially support your children should the worst occur.

Also, young adults often have a larger total debt amount (mortgage, student loans, credit cards, car loans, etc.), and depending on the fine print, these debts may become your family’s responsibility to pay off. However, by speaking with an estate planning attorney, you can identify the best ways to address your debt and hopefully alleviate some of the financial burden left behind.

Myth #3: All I Need is a Legal Will

A legal will is an essential part of any estate plan, but it does not cover the full scope of what a thoughtfully prepared estate plan can cover. A will only discusses what to do after your passing; it does not say what to do if you become incapacitated or unable to make decisions on your own.

For example, if you are placed in a medically induced coma or develop Alzheimer’s, any wishes you’ve stated in the will do not apply because you are still alive. But who should look after your children? Who should pay your monthly bills? These questions can be answered with estate planning documents outside the will.

The most common documents to consider are the financial power of attorney, healthcare power of attorney, living will, and revocable living trust. These forms ensure that your needs and your family are taken care of no matter what circumstances may arise.

Myth #4: Estate Planning is Too Expensive or Time-Consuming

While the process can be intricate, a knowledgeable guide makes everything smoother and easier. You will need to pay some attorney fees, of course, but you will save on future legal fees, taxes, and court costs that often arise if there is no estate plan.

Ask your friend group or call around your area to find an honest, affordable estate planning attorney. You get to choose who you work with, so take your time to find the best fit. You’ll want someone with experience who is transparent about their fees and unfailingly committed to answering your questions and setting up an estate plan focused on your wishes.

Myth #5: My Family Will Sort Everything Out

Even the closest family members can become stressed and overwrought during a time of grief and financial indecision. And unfortunately, informal discussions with family about your wishes don’t hold up in court. If there are no legal documents stating your directives, your estate will go to probate court, and state law will determine what happens to your assets. It won’t matter what you’ve discussed with your family.

But what if your spouse has a power of attorney (POA)? Can’t they take care of everything? The POA is only valid while you are still living. Once you have passed, the will or trust takes over, and the POA becomes obsolete. While your spouse will have rights in the probate court, the POA does not give them any additional power or standing during the proceedings.

To ensure the smoothest transition and prevent any family disagreements, it’s always best to complete a full estate plan with a licensed attorney. You can prevent complications and provide clear guidance to your family and the courts regarding your wishes.

Remember, Estate Planning is an Ongoing Responsibility

Now that the facts have replaced fiction, remember that estate planning is fluid because life is always changing. You may have more children, get divorced or remarried, get promoted and receive a pay increase, or lose a family member who was listed as a beneficiary.

As a rule of thumb, regularly review your estate planning documents every 3-5 years, paying special attention to beneficiaries. There have been unfortunate cases where a former spouse received the inheritance because they were never removed as a beneficiary after the marriage was dissolved.

By keeping tabs on your legal documents, you ensure that everything stays up-to-date and accurately reflects your changing life and priorities.

Pro Tip: Consider Preplanning for Your Funeral Wishes

In addition to putting together an estate plan, you can also complete advance funeral planning. After the death of a loved one, surviving family members must often answer between 100 – 200 questions before any kind of funeral or memorial service can take place.

Pulling together all the answers while grieving a loss can feel overwhelming. That’s why advance funeral planning is such a great idea. Read “10 Reasons to Plan Ahead” and “6 Ways You Can Save Money with Funeral Preplanning & Prefunding” to learn more.

Additional Estate Planning Resources

For more information about estate planning, check out these additional resources. Also, consider making an appointment with a reputable estate planning attorney in your area.

Sep 21

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Group of senior adult friends laughing together

Healthy Practices for Your Later Years: 70s

By christy.kessler Living Well, Plan Ahead

Your 70s are here. Let’s make them great!

While good habits benefit you throughout your life, it’s never too late to make positive changes. While you should continue good habits from previous decades, there are unique challenges that come with reaching your 70s. Let’s go over 10 helpful and healthy practices to maintain your health and organize your affairs in your golden years.

10 Best Practices for Healthy 70-Somethings

1. Strengthen your Body

While exercise may look quite different now, it’s still essential for your overall health and energy levels. Rather than engaging in high-intensity cardio sessions (unless your body is used to it already), look for low-impact cardio activities, such as walking, yoga, swimming, or indoor cycling. Also include stretching and strength training in your normal routine.

2. Manage Stress

Growing older doesn’t take away stress, though the specifics may change. If you’re on a fixed income, you may wonder if it will be enough. Or you may worry about getting sick or losing friends to illness. These types of concerns can lead to stress, depression, or anxiety, but there are ways to manage the stress.

To combat these three mood busters, try out a few easy tips:

Take time each day to focus on something you are thankful for.
Acknowledge and express your feelings, both positive and negative.
Embrace and find comfort in your spirituality.
Accept that some things are outside your control.
Try to keep your sense of humor.
Continue to build relationships with people – you need them!

3. Engage Your Mind

While some degree of forgetfulness is normal with age, significant decline is not an inevitable part of aging. If you challenge your brain, it will function well throughout your lifetime. The key is to regularly exercise your brain. A few ideas to get you started are:

Try new variations of familiar activities, like new types of puzzles, new recipes, or a different sport
Learn something entirely new, like a language or a skill
Seek new experiences and make new friends

4. Eat Well and Drink Plenty of Water

Healthy nutrition has a few added challenges as you age. For instance, your sense of taste and smell can change a bit, which affects your appetite. Slower digestion and metabolism change how your body processes food, and you may begin to lose your sense of thirst. To combat these challenges, be intentional about your food and water intake.

Eat plenty of protein, calcium, and fiber, and drink lots of water. On average, people in their 70s drink too little. You actually need anywhere from eleven to fifteen cups of water per day! Try not to skip meals, and if you’re having trouble maintaining a healthy diet, discuss it with a family member, your health care provider, or a nutritionist.

5. Rest Well and Deeply

You may think you need less sleep now that you’re a little less active, but that’s not the case. Adults in their 70s still need 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Of course, as an older adult, you may experience sleep complications, like insomnia, daytime sleepiness, health conditions, or aches and pains that keep you awake at night.

To achieve ample rest, set good sleep habits in place. Make sure that your room is dark, quiet, and not too warm. Stop using the TV or your electronic devices at least one hour before bed. And if you suffer from insomnia, try to exercise during the day and avoid naps so you feel tired when bedtime comes around. If you are still having trouble sleeping, speak to your health care provider.

6. Be Aware of Elder Crime

Unfortunately, older adults are at risk for certain types of crime, particularly elder abuse and fraud (identity theft, fake checks, and various kinds of scams). Most often, fraud is perpetrated by someone you don’t know, but elder abuse is a different story. Elder abuse can be physical, emotional, or psychological and often involves neglect, abandonment, or financial exploitation.

To guard against elder abuse, keep the people you trust close. Also, be on the lookout for these signs of an abusive caregiver: lack of affection, don’t allow you to be alone with others, are angry or aggressive toward you, don’t clean the home or help you with personal hygiene, speak about you as if you were a burden, or give conflicting stories to explain an incident. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, reach out to someone you trust for help or call the elder abuse hotline in your state.

7. Prevent Falls

Now is a time to be especially aware of your bone health. Osteoporosis is a significant concern for those who are aging because it can cause bones to break more easily. By adding low-impact cardio, strength training, and calcium and vitamin D to your routine, you can increase your bone mass and decrease the likelihood of broken bones.

In addition to exercise, assess the potential risks in your home and identify any tripping hazards, like throw rugs, cords, or clutter. Consider removing these hazardous items completely. Also, if you are having trouble now, use a cane or walker when needed and wear supportive shoes. Above all, take your time when doing things. There’s no rush.

8. Pursue Good Eye, Ear, and Heart Health

As you grow older, take special care of your eyes, ears, and heart. As you age, many people more frequently experience dry eye, so drink plenty of fluids, limit your screen time, and schedule screenings for glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

If you start to experience hearing loss, bring your concerns to your health care provider. They can help you understand the best way to move forward. And for your heart, it’s never too late to start good habits. Discuss your heart’s current health with your doctor, take any medications, eat well, and exercise. These activities can protect your heart in the long run.

9. Plan Ahead

One of the best things you can do for your family is to get your affairs in order. The clearer and more organized your affairs are, the easier it will be for your surviving family members to carry out your wishes. While it’s hard to think about your mortality, it’s always a good idea to take care of these important aspects of planning while you’re still in good health and able to make sound decisions.

The most important estate planning concerns to address are: a legal will, financial or medical power of attorney, a living will, advance care directives, and funeral planning. Feel free to bring your family members into any part of the process and get their valuable input. And once your plans are in place, designate at least two emergency contacts and make sure they have access to your information.

10. Find Joy in Each Day

As you grow older, try to maintain your sense of purpose and find joy in each day. Having a positive attitude will help you face each day with excitement and anticipation.

Find things to be grateful for. Face any limitations you may have with a good sense of humor. Stay connected to others to increase healthy longevity. Pick up a new hobby, find ways to volunteer, spend time outdoors, join a club, or visit places you’ve always wanted to go. With each new day, continue to find ways to enjoy life and the people you love.

With friends, family, and these 10 tips by your side, you have a wonderful decade to look forward to. May the 70s be some of the happiest and most fruitful years of your life!

Jun 10

Love0

Senior woman sitting on couch and smiling up at adult daughter

How to Share Your Funeral Plan with Family in 7 Easy Steps

By christy.kessler Estate Planning, Plan Ahead

If you’ve decided to preplan your funeral, you are giving your family a true gift. Not only is preplanning an expression of your great love, but it also puts everyone’s minds at ease, knowing that all the details have been taken care of. While the decision to preplan may have been easy to make, it can be harder to tell family about it. Today, let’s talk about 7 easy steps to sharing your funeral plans and helping your family understand the benefits.

7 Easy Steps to Sharing Your Funeral Plans with Family

The time and method of sharing your funeral plans is entirely up to you. You can chat over the phone or in person, whatever works best for your family.

Before you begin, prepare yourself for some possible pushback. Some people shy away from talking about death and anything related to it. Your children or relatives may try to brush the topic aside or protest that they will take care of everything. If that happens, tell them firmly but kindly that you have specific wishes that you want them to know.

1. Start off by talking about your health

When possible, it’s best to have this conversation when you are in good health. If you are in good health, reassure your children that everything is fine and that you are just thinking ahead. Perhaps mention that you’d rather have this discussion now than when you are ill. On the other hand, if you are already fighting an illness, let them know that you are thinking about what’s best for them. Explain that you want to do this because you love them.

2. Acknowledge that the conversation isn’t easy

Let them know that you don’t take this conversation lightly. Share with them how you have thoughtfully considered the best way to impart this information. Acknowledge that the topic isn’t easy for you either, but you want to ensure they know what to do after you’re gone. You want to make things as straightforward and simple for them as possible.

3. Share why you preplanned your funeral

Highlight the reasons why you decided to preplan your funeral. Perhaps you wanted to ease some of the decision-making burdens they will feel when the time comes. Or you wanted to have some sense of control over what your final disposition will be.

It could also be that you want to save money and pay for the funeral costs over time rather than have the burden fall on your children. Or you want to protect your family from emotional overspending by ensuring they don’t pay for unnecessary merchandise. No matter your motivation, speak from the heart and share your personal “why” behind planning ahead.

4. Present your plan

Make sure that you’ve written a comprehensive plan before you share it with your family. Your relatives may have ideas that are different from yours, and you need to know which items are non-negotiable so that you can stand your ground, if necessary. Don’t feel the need to expound on every small detail of the plan. Just make sure they know your wishes and which funeral home you are partnering with.

5. Ask if there’s anything they’d like to contribute or include

While the funeral honors the dead, it’s a healing balm for the living. If you’d like to invite your family to make suggestions, feel free to do so.

Your relatives may have creative ideas to share that will enhance your plans. Or there may be something you haven’t thought of that will be particularly meaningful to them if it’s included in the service. For example, your child who plays the violin may want to perform one of your favorite songs. Or your artistic sibling may want to put together a decorative collage of your growing up years together.

There’s value in understanding what will help others heal and incorporating those details into the service. You, of course, maintain all veto powers! Not every idea is a good idea, and it’s okay to set boundaries.

6. Answer their questions

It’s natural to have questions. Let your family ask theirs and listen to what’s on their hearts and minds. Be willing to change a few things on your funeral plan. If their responses seem negative, try to understand the fear that is motivating them, and address that fear directly. It is hard to face the reality of death, even if it’s far distant. But if you are committed to preplanning and ensuring that everything is taken care of for your family’s benefit, then the hard conversations have to happen.

7. Reassure them

As your conversation draws to a close, remind your family how much you love them. Reiterate that you have created a plan that you hope will bring them peace and comfort when you cannot physically be with them. As you end the discussion, reassure everyone that this is an ongoing conversation. If they have questions or concerns later, you are open to discussing this topic as much as they would like.

Group of senior adults talking together

Hopefully these 7 steps will help you successfully navigate the preplanning conversation with your family. Even if they aren’t enthusiastic about hearing that you’ve made funeral plans, in the end, they will be grateful that you are thinking ahead. If you haven’t already, make sure to finalize your funeral plans with your chosen funeral home and consider the benefits of pre-paying. Check out the resources below for more helpful information!

Jun 10

Love1

Woman in striped sweater writing a list in a journal

6 Things Your Emergency Contacts Need to Know

By christy.kessler Estate Planning, Plan Ahead

All kinds of documents require that you list an emergency contact. But why? Because the unexpected happens, and at some point, you’re going to need a trustworthy person to represent you when you can’t do it yourself.

Most of the time, an emergency contact is a close friend or family member, and they may already be somewhat familiar with your wishes and preferences. But to be most effective, there are 6 things you should discuss with your emergency contacts. The more information they have, the more able they are to support your wishes and make decisions on your behalf. Let’s talk about it!

1. The Location of Your Legal Documents and Insurance Policies

Your emergency contacts need to know where to find important documents like your legal will, birth and marriage certificates, deeds, titles, insurance policies, powers of attorney documents, health care directives, funeral planning documents, and records of creditors and assets, including digital assets and passwords.

If you’re using a safe for your documents, share the combination with your emergency contacts. You could also opt for a safe deposit box and coordinate with the bank to give your emergency contacts access. As an alternative, you might consider purchasing a watertight, fire-proof, easily transportable container. This way, your documents are safe and transportable if there’s a fire, flood, or some other unexpected event.

2. The Terms of Your Will and Trusts

Sit down with your emergency contact and go over your legal will. This includes your wishes for the distribution of your assets, heirlooms, furniture, and keepsakes.

To ensure your wishes are honored, include as many details in the will as possible and appoint a trusted executor. If there are any belongings or assets that are not directly addressed in the will, it’s best to update your will to include them.

Additionally, you may also wish to set up financial trusts to provide for your children or grandchildren. Consider appointing one of your emergency contacts as trustee and discussing the terms of those trusts.

3. Your Wishes for Medical Care

If you have specific wishes regarding your medical care, it’s best to outline those wishes with an advance care directive and discuss your choices with your emergency contacts. Advance care directives are documents that will protect you in case you are incapacitated and/or unable to make medical decisions for yourself. They will clearly outline your wishes for medical treatment and life-saving measures. You can learn more by reading “Understanding the Living Will & Why It Matters.”

4. Allergies and Blood Type

If you have allergies to food or medications, your emergency contacts should know so they can alert medical professionals if you are unable to do so. It is also a good idea to provide your emergency contacts with a record of your blood type in case of emergency.

5. The Care of Your Dependents and Pets

If you are responsible for children or pets, talk with your emergency contacts about their care. Let your emergency contacts know whom you name as the children’s guardian and how you’ve set up any insurance policy benefits, 401(k) funds, or other assets to provide financially for your children.

For pets, identify a friend or family member who can take in your furry (or non-furry) friends and provide a loving home. You can write down any pertinent details for your pets’ care and ask your emergency contact to pass the information along.

6. Your Funeral Wishes and Plans

One way you can love and protect your loved ones is by putting together a healing and meaningful funeral plan. By making the decisions now, you can ensure that your family doesn’t have to make hard decisions at an emotional time.

The best way to preplan is with a licensed funeral director at your trusted funeral home. They can review your options and ensure that your plan is practical, legal, within your budget, and healing for your grieving family.

Give your emergency contacts a copy of your funeral plans and keep a copy on file at the funeral home of your choice.

IMPORTANT: After prearranging your funeral, it is essential to share your plans with your family and emergency contacts. If you don’t, you run the risk that your family will never learn about your plans and may spend more money than you would have preferred. On top of that, if you’ve prepaid for your funeral and no one knows, your family may go to a different funeral home and pay for everything out of their own pocket. If this happens, the amount you’ve already paid toward your funeral may go to the state’s unclaimed property office. While the state will continue to try to contact your family, this may take years and is subject to state laws. To avoid this possibility, it’s best to share your plans.

What Next?

For a complete list of information your emergency contacts need to know, download this helpful checklist: What Your Emergency Contacts Should Know. By gathering all these documents, you are taking the first steps to getting your affairs in order. While the process takes time, it removes a lot of confusion and uncertainty. When your wishes are clear and understandable, your family can make decisions with confidence. As needed, consult trusted professionals, such as an estate planning attorney and your local funeral director. In the end, you will be glad you did!

DISCLAIMER: Individual circumstances and state laws vary, so any estate planning should only be undertaken with the help and assistance of an attorney licensed in your state.

Apr 21

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Officiant reading from book at graveside service

10 Funeral Costs That Are Often Overlooked

By christy.kessler Educational, Plan Ahead, Planning Tools

Every funeral is different, which means the cost can vary widely. While funeral homes provide clear pricing for their services through the General Price List, funerals often require additional services that can only be supplied by a third party. Because these items are provided by an outside entity, the pricing isn’t up to the funeral home. However, the funeral home staff know what to do and can ensure these services aren’t overlooked!

Today, let’s talk about 9 third-party funeral costs that are often overlooked but can be essential to creating a meaningful final tribute for a loved one.

1. Cemetery and Monument Charges

Whether you choose burial or cremation, you will likely need to consider cemetery costs in your plans. Cemetery charges would include the cost of a burial plot or a niche in a columbarium or mausoleum, plus any fees associated with opening and closing the grave.

Also, consider the cost of a grave marker or monument, along with a monument installation fee. Cemetery proprietors and monument companies determine these fees because many funeral homes do not own a cemetery or monument company themselves.

If you don’t already have a plan in place for cemetery needs, your funeral director can provide a recommendation or discuss your local cemetery options.

2. Death Certificates

Most people don’t realize how many death certificates they will need. As a rule of thumb, purchase multiple copies – more than you think you will need. Copies of a death certificate are typically requested as proof of death for life insurance policies, social security or veterans’ benefits, stocks, bonds, and banks, to name a few.

The state or municipality determine the cost of a death certificate, and that amount can change over time. While death certificates are typically inexpensive, you can make the process a bit easier by relying on the funeral home to complete all the paperwork and request certificates on your behalf. Just let your funeral director know how many you want.

3. Obituary/Death Notice

Many people are surprised at the cost associated with publishing an obituary or death notice in a newspaper, especially in a larger city. In most cases, the funeral home will publish an obituary to the funeral home’s website at no cost, but if you wish to post it elsewhere, the fee may be higher than you expect. If there’s a particular place you’d like to publish the obituary, let your director know so you can discuss any fees or requirements.

4. Church or Venue Charges

If you choose to have a funeral or memorial service outside the funeral home’s facility, the venue you choose may charge a fee to use the space. Your funeral director will help you coordinate and discuss any rental fees for the location you’ve selected. Choosing a special location can add a beautiful touch to the ceremony and may be just the right way to honor your loved one’s life.

5. Flowers

Depending on the time of year, the cost of flowers will fluctuate. Unfortunately, this makes it hard to pin down the actual cost. While most funeral homes don’t have their own florists, they do have positive working relationships with local businesses. If you’d like, the funeral home can purchase floral arrangements on your behalf. You can work with your funeral director to set a budget and discuss which types of flowers you prefer.

6. Live Music

Music is a very personal and touching way to create a one-of-a-kind tribute. If you elect to have live music, it is likely that an honorarium (monetary token of appreciation) will be necessary. Most of the time, the musician or group you choose to hire will determine the honorarium amount. If you don’t already have a musician in mind, you can ask your funeral director for recommendations.

7. Officiant Honorarium

It’s common practice to have an officiant at the funeral, who will act as host for the service and ensure that events move along smoothly. It is customary to offer this person an honorarium for their time and effort.

In many cases, the officiant will be a clergy person or a celebrant. A celebrant is a non-clergy person who has trained to eulogize and coordinate funeral services. However, anyone can do it. If you have a friend who is willing to officiate for free, you can do that.

No matter whom you choose, discuss that person’s fee expectations before you hire them.

8. Pallbearers

In many cases, pallbearers are family members and friends. However, for some, it is difficult to identify six to eight pallbearers. If you require assistance, the funeral home can help by hiring the extra hands needed. This service will come with a small fee for each hired pallbearer, which your funeral director will discuss with you before anyone is employed.

9. Police Escort

In many states, it is common practice to request a police escort for the funeral procession to the final resting place. With an escort, the funeral procession can move through traffic in an orderly way and without traffic delays. The cost for this service is determined by the local police department, and your funeral director is likely to already know the cost (if any).

Urn sitting on table with red rose floral arrangement

10. Catering

And finally, if you choose to have a reception following the service, don’t forget to count the cost of catering. Whether you decide to serve refreshments or a full meal, pricing will be subject to whatever catering service or restaurant you select. You can, of course, make any food yourself (or go potluck style), but catering can make a stressful time a bit easier. If you aren’t sure how to proceed with catering, your funeral director can help you get everything ordered and set up.

While not all-inclusive, you now have a better understanding of these 9 often overlooked funeral costs. Thankfully, you have an advocate and a guide in your trusted funeral director. They can help you navigate through the funeral planning process from beginning to end.

Whether you are planning ahead for your own funeral wishes or creating a meaningful final tribute for a loved one, your funeral director will sit down with you to discuss all the options, ensuring that nothing is forgotten or left unconsidered.

Mar 10

Love0

11 Meaningful Ways to Honor Your Loved One’s Ashes

By christy.kessler Cremation, Memorial, Plan Ahead, Planning Tools

Have you considered how to honor a loved one’s ashes after their passing? In today’s world, there are so many options available, and you’re sure to find one that perfectly matches your loved one’s preferences and personality. To help you get started with choosing the best option, let’s discuss 11 meaningful ways that you can honor a loved one’s cremated remains. With the information gained, you can thoughtfully decide what’s best for your family’s specific needs.

1. Burial

Did you know that you can bury an urn? Just like a casket, you can hold a graveside service and bury an urn in a cemetery of your choosing. Additionally, many cemeteries allow you to bury an urn alongside a casket, in case two loved ones had differing burial preferences. If you wish, you can also look for a cemetery with an urn garden, where there’s a dedicated and landscaped area for urn fountains and benches.

2. Columbarium

An above-ground structure, the columbarium exclusively houses cremated remains. The columbarium is filled with niches (wall spaces) where urns are placed and interred. A bronze plaque with an epitaph will be placed on the exterior of the niche to mark a loved one’s final resting place. This is perhaps the most familiar option for cremation, aside from scattering.

3. Scattering

Scattering is the act of taking a loved one’s ashes to meaningful places and scattering them. This could be by the ocean, in the mountains, at a special place, or near home. Alternatively, you could opt for a scattering garden, which is a designated space often attached to a cemetery. Regardless of where you choose to scatter your loved one’s ashes, always review local laws and regulations first.

4. Keep the Ashes at Home

More people are starting to keep the cremated remains of a loved one at home. This option is definitely viable, but make sure you indicate in your will what to do with the ashes after your passing. Whoever handles your estate may not know about your loved one’s urn and could dispose of it unknowingly. So, if you do keep a loved one’s ashes in your home, make sure you communicate a plan for their care after you are gone.

5. Memorial Jewelry

Another popular option is to place a small amount of a loved one’s ashes in memorial jewelry. The jewelry design often includes a small interior space (like a locket) where the ashes are placed. You can choose from various styles, metals, and types (e.g. necklaces, rings, pendants, etc.). Selecting this option allows you to take a small part of your loved one with you, no matter where you go.

6. Under the Sea

For a loved one who adored the ocean, there are now options available at sea. For example, you can place an urn in an underwater mausoleum. Or you can create an artificial coral reef with a loved one’s ashes that will assist in the repair and conservation of natural coral reefs. As a memorial to your loved one, consider affixing a plaque to the artificial reef. Also, in many cases, it’s possible to be present as the reef is placed in the ocean.

7. Plant the Ashes

With the proper treatment, it is now possible to plant a memorial tree with a loved one’s ashes. With this option, you will place a special, biodegradable urn in the ground. The top section of the urn contains seeds and soil, while the bottom holds the treated ashes (making them safe for plants). Once the roots grow deep enough, they will mingle with the ashes. Speak with a trusted funeral director to learn more about this option.

8. Launch into Space

Interestingly enough, you can send a person’s ashes into space. If your loved one adored space and all its mysteries or was always looking for the next big adventure, you might consider this option. Of course, there will be regulations and stipulations to follow, but it is an option available to you.

9. Stained Glass or Hand-Blown Glass Keepsakes

Another possibility is to have the ashes of a loved one infused with glass to create beautiful pendants, paperweights, orbs, hourglasses, and other glassware. During the creation process, layers of hot glass encase the ashes. The process fuses the two (glass and ashes) together permanently. As with memorial jewelry, this option requires only a small portion of the ashes.

10. Press into a Diamond

A growing trend is to forge a loved one’s ashes into diamonds, which are made of crystallized carbon. This is possible because the second most abundant element in the human body is carbon. After the diamond-making process is complete, the family can design memorial jewelry or other items of significance to remember someone loved.

11. Memorial Stones

With memorial stones, the cremated remains are compressed into a collection of 40-80+ stones. Each stone possesses its own unique color, texture, and shape. To create the stones, the ashes are mixed with a clay-like material, shaped into stones, and then fired in a kiln. The finished stones can be placed in a garden, given to individual family members, taken to mountain peaks, or whatever else would be meaningful for your family.

As you can see, there are many ways to honor the cremated body of someone dearly loved. The most important thing is to determine which will be the most meaningful for you and your family. And keep in mind that these are only some of the options. There may be something else out there just right for you!

Jan 14

Love0

Two girls looking at an estate sale's items

Tips for Hiring a Professional Estate Sale Company

By Rachael Ray Estate Planning, Plan Ahead

When someone you love passes away, there are many things to consider, including what to do with their house and possessions. As you walk through a loved one’s home, you may see yourself keeping a few cherished items, but you cannot see yourself keeping everything. What can you do? Consider having an estate sale!

While you could host an estate sale yourself, that can get complicated. Instead, consider hiring an estate sale company. There are many companies to choose from, so take a look at these 8 tips for hiring a professional estate sale company.

1. Choose a Company that Respects Your Wishes for Personal Involvement

As you start your search, look for an estate sale company that makes you feel comfortable with your level of control and personal involvement.

For some people, a lost loved one’s home may be out of state, which can make logistics tricky. The distance may require you to conduct your business through phone calls and virtual communication.

If that’s the case, choose a company that maintains frequent communication and is used to working with out-of-town family members. Whether you’re local or not, hiring an estate sale company that lets you be as much or as little involved as you want is worth considering.

2. Choose a Company with Good Word-of-Mouth Recommendations

To find a trustworthy business, consider asking your friends and family about their experiences with professional estate sale companies. Chances are, they’ll know someone local with whom they’ve had a good experience.

Alternatively, you could also attend local estate sales in your area and ask about the company they hired. If the heirs aren’t present, take the opportunity to speak with the company associates themselves.

Lastly, your estate sale company search can also be conducted online by reading reviews. Star ratings, photos, and testimonials allow you to discern whether the company you’re looking at is the right choice for you.

3. Choose a Company that Focuses on Your Service Priorities

Once you compile a list of potential estate sale companies, think about the services you would like to employ. You’ll want to ask yourself questions like:

Am I looking for help with pricing items?
Does staging the house feel like too much right now?
Would I prefer to oversee the sale itself, or would I rather be absent from it?
Would I prefer the company to advertise the estate sale?
How do I want to handle negotiations with buyers?
Do I have any specialty items that require attention?
Would I prefer the company to handle any leftover items that aren’t sold?

As you answer these questions, you’ll hone in on your own priorities and can hire a company that takes those priorities seriously.

4. Choose a Company that Fits Your Budget

After figuring out which services you need, ask yourself how much you are willing to spend on an estate sale company. Making a budget is a smart way to keep your costs within your means.

Ask each company for their pricing, their commission percentage, and their fees. This way, you can easily compare each company’s offerings and pricing. However, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Some companies may charge a higher rate but have a better understanding of the practice and market. On the other hand, some companies could charge a lower rate and have less experience and fewer connections. Always weigh the pros and cons before deciding whom to hire.

5. Choose a Company that Takes a Reasonable Commission

Once you have decided on your service priorities and an estimated spending range, consider the commission percentage the company will require. Keep in mind that since you have decided to hire an estate sale company, the profit you receive will be lower than if you choose to host the sale yourself.

Feel free to ask the companies you contact for price quotes and explanations behind their commission percentage. A trustworthy company will be transparent about their rates before you hire them. As stated in the previous tip, some companies may feel comfortable asking for a higher rate due to their experience and knowledge in estate sales.

6. Choose a Company that Meets Your Schedule

Your day-to-day life comes with numerous responsibilities, so you’ll want to choose a company that is flexible and can accommodate your schedule. Feel free to pull out your weekly calendar and suggest dates and times that are convenient for you.

As you start to coordinate meetings and the logistics of the estate sale, ask yourself these questions. When do you have time to meet with the companies you’re considering? How much time will it take to review everything you wish to sell? How long does the estate sale company expect the entire process to take?

You don’t want to feel rushed for time when working with an estate sale company, and a good company won’t try to hurry you.

7. Choose a Company that Helps You Decide What to Keep

When coordinating an estate sale, you must start thinking about what you would like to keep from your loved one’s estate. Once you’re done looking through your deceased loved one’s belongings, a good estate sale company will carefully review each item and help you price everything efficiently.

If you’re curious about a particular item’s value, they’ll also be able to help. These professionals are trained to look at and appraise items for a fair and reasonable amount.

8. Choose a Company with Consignment or Donation Opportunities

Once your estate sale concludes, you will likely have items left over that did not sell. That’s why it’s important to choose a company that has a plan for unsold items. Do they price items for consignment or offer to drop off the remaining items at a local donation center? Ask the company about their policies and offerings so you know what your responsibilities will be after the estate sale is over. This way, there are no loose ends following the estate sale.

Making a Decision

Hopefully, these tips will help you as you decide whether or not to hire an estate sale company to assist you with clearing out a loved one’s home after their passing.

By choosing a trustworthy and reliable estate sale company, you can rely on experts to take care of everything. They will appraise estate items appropriately, stage the house, and share extensive knowledge of the estate sale process with you. Not only will the estate sale conclude smoothly, but an incredible emotional weight will be lifted off your shoulders.

Whether you choose to hire an estate sale company or do it yourself, consider exploring these additional resources for more information.

Pros and Cons of Using a Professional Estate Sale Company

11 Tips for Planning a DIY Estate Sale

Dec 29

Love1

Man and woman greeting each other with a handshake in a professional setting

What to Expect at a Funeral Arrangement Conference

By christy.kessler Plan Ahead, Planning Tools

None of us are ever truly prepared to lose someone we love. Whether the loss comes suddenly or has been long expected, numbness and shock are common in the first two days, which is usually when the funeral arrangements are made. To help ease the burden you may feel so soon after a loss, it’s helpful to know what to expect when you head into an arrangement conference. Preparing ahead of time will help ease your mind and prepare your thoughts.

What is an Arrangement Conference?

An arrangement conference is a time specifically set aside to meet with a funeral director and discuss final disposition and the details of a meaningful tribute. Additionally, it’s an opportunity for the funeral director to get to know you better and learn how to best honor your loved one.

Dr. Alan Wolfelt, a nationally respected grief author and counselor, says that the funeral ritual is incredibly important for our individual grief journeys. He says, “Rich in history and rife with symbolism, the funeral ceremony helps us acknowledge the reality of the death, gives testimony to the life of the deceased, encourages the expression of grief in a way consistent with the culture’s values, provides support to mourners, allows for the embracing of faith and beliefs about life and death, and offers continuity and hope for the living.”

With this goal in mind, the arrangement conference gives you and the funeral director time to create a meaningful and healing funeral service. Most arrangement conferences take place in the funeral home, but if you are traveling from a long distance or can’t make it to the funeral home in person, you may also be able to work with your funeral director over the phone and via text, email, or other digital options.

What are the Main Objectives?

There are three main objectives for your time with the funeral director during the arrangement conference.

Gather the vital information of the person who died (full name, SSN, birthdate, etc.), which the funeral director will then use on your behalf to request death certificates and file for veterans’ burial benefits (if applicable) and life insurance claims.
Make your wishes known about how you want to remember and honor your lost loved one.
Select the most fitting funeral, cremation, and burial options.

Typically, the conference takes 2-3 hours on the day of or the day after a death. The funeral director will guide you through the available funeral service and memorial options, music selections, coordination with a church and cemetery (or other desired location for the service), and much more.

What Questions Should You Consider in Advance?

The funeral director is your partner and your guide throughout the funeral planning process. They have the experience and the knowledge needed to help you make informed decisions. Even though you will get thorough explanations from the funeral director, it’s a good idea to come to the arrangement conference having considered a few key questions:

Where and when should the services be held?
Do you want to publish an obituary? If you do, who will write it? Where will you publish it?
In lieu of flowers, do you want to offer charitable contributions as an option for sympathy gifts?
Have you chosen a cemetery or other final resting place?
Do you need assistance with selecting a monument or grave marker?
What kind of funeral service is most appropriate? Simple? Elaborate? Public? Private? Religious?
What would you consider to be the best way to honor and memorialize your lost loved one?
Should there be a viewing, visitation, funeral service, or committal service?
If there is a service, who will participate? Musicians, speakers, pallbearers?
Do you want floral arrangements present, and if so, what kind?
Will the final disposition be burial, cremation, or another type of interment?
Will the body be present at the funeral or memorial service?
If applicable, open or closed casket?
Do you know someone who will act as officiant, or will you need the funeral home’s assistance in finding one?

What Should You Bring?

The more information you bring, the smoother the meeting will be (and the less documentation you will need to bring back later). To help you prepare, print and review this Funeral Arrangement Conference Checklist. The list is fairly comprehensive and gives you an excellent place to start. However, please note that the funeral home may ask you for something not included.

Additionally, the funeral home might also reach out to you before the arrangement conference to start planning digitally. Completing some information ahead of time means that the focus of the in-person meeting can be about planning a meaningful, personalized service for your loved one.

Some Final Tips

First of all, prepare as much as you can ahead of time. You can gather necessary documents, clothing and personal items, details for the obituary, and photos to be used in the service ahead of time.

Secondly, don’t feel rushed during the conference. Remember, the funeral director is there to help you with all your needs and is ready to serve you fully.

Thirdly, ask as many questions as you need. As you plan a tribute for your loved one, the funeral director is there to be a knowledgeable and available partner in a difficult situation. Make use of their experience and ask as many questions as you want.

Finally, take notes. You will receive a lot of information during the arrangement conference, and it’s unlikely you will be able to remember it all. Take a notepad (or a friend) with you and make sure to write things down.

Hopefully, you now feel a little more prepared for an arrangement conference and can go into the meeting with confidence!

One Last Thought

After planning a funeral for a loved one, you know how hard it can be. Instead, here’s a pro tip: If you’d like to make the planning process easier for your own family in the future, consider the benefits of preplanning. With a prearranged funeral plan already in place, your family won’t have to answer dozens of questions while under a cloud of stress and grief. Instead, with your wishes in hand, the arrangement conference will go very smoothly. Often, the only question left to answer is the date and time for the service to be held!

To learn more about funeral preplanning, check out these resources:

Dec 10

Love0

Young woman in pink sweater and glasses sitting at home and going over her estate plan

Avoid These 6 Estate Planning Misconceptions

By christy.kessler Educational, Estate Planning

A 2025 survey found that only 31% of Americans have a legal will and 55% of Americans have no estate plan at all. These figures tell us that most American families are unprotected and unprepared regarding legal matters should an unexpected death occur in the family.

You may be asking, “But what is an estate plan?” An estate plan refers to many documents, including but not limited to a legal will, a living will, a financial or healthcare power of attorney, and a trust. A combination of these documents will make up a person’s estate plan.

So, why aren’t Americans completing an estate plan? Let’s talk through 6 misconceptions around estate planning that lead many families to de-prioritize the planning process and create unintentional confusion and headaches for surviving family members.

Reason #1: “An estate plan is only for senior adults”

In many ways, estate planning has become associated with advanced age. Because senior adults (65+) have lived longer, worked longer, and often accumulated more wealth, the general thought is that they are more likely to need an estate plan.

However, a 20-something who’s just starting out has just as much need for estate planning documents as an 80-year-old at an assisted living facility. Why? Because both people have assets, possessions, and online accounts tied to their names.

Without a clear estate plan, both the family of the 20-year-old and the 80-year-old will have difficulty untangling an estate. In some ways, the 20-year-old’s estate may be harder. After all, the 80-year-old may have verbally conveyed some wishes while the 20-year-old probably never considered it. So, regardless of age, it’s always a good idea to have a plan for your estate.

Reason #2: “An estate plan is only for the wealthy”

Next, you may think that estate planning is only for the wealthy. While the wealthy do have more assets and properties to distribute, estate planning is not dependent on having a specific amount of wealth. In many ways, estate planning is about more than money.

It’s about the family heirlooms, the sock drawer money, the paid-off car, and the house you’ve lived in for years. Whether you have $100 to your name or $1 million, your family needs direction and guidance to understand your wishes and ensure that the right people inherit and receive what you want them to receive.

Reason #3: “Estate planning will be too expensive”

The cost of estate planning ultimately rests in your hands. While there are expensive options out there, you can choose an estate planning route that comes with minimal cost.

For those who have a complicated estate, it may be worthwhile to get in contact with an estate planning attorney who can help you walk through all the details. However, for those with uncomplicated, straightforward estates, you can complete basic estate planning documents for a nominal fee.

And if you prefer to work directly with an estate planning attorney no matter what, you can call around until you find a firm or attorney that fits into your budget and meets your needs.

Reason #4: “I have plenty of time”

Most of us don’t spend much time actively thinking about our mortality. It’s something we tend to avoid thinking about, which is why so many people assume they have plenty of time to complete an estate plan.

But the fact is that none of us know the length of our days. More than likely, all of us can name someone who died much too early or quite unexpectedly. Rather than leave things to chance, take charge and make decisions today.

By outlining your estate planning wishes now, not only will you have peace of mind that everyone you love is taken care of, but the people you love can experience incredible assurance that you’ve considered everything and made plans for the future.

Reason #5: “I don’t need an estate plan”

For some, you may think you don’t need an estate plan. Maybe you live paycheck to paycheck or you’ve never been able to buy a home or invest in anything. You’re not alone! According to a report put out by PNC Bank, around 67% of workers are living paycheck to paycheck.

While your financial situation may make it seem like you don’t need an estate plan, that’s not the case. Even if your financial assets are minimal, there are still many end-of-life concerns that need your input.

Let’s discuss a few examples. A legal will allows you to designate a guardian for any minor children or pets. A living will encourages you to outline your wishes regarding life-saving medical care. A power of attorney gives your chosen representative the ability to make decisions if you become incapacitated, including paying your bills, making medical decisions, and accessing your online accounts.

Whether you have monetary assets or not, you do have many reasons to complete an estate plan and ensure your wishes are known.

Reason #6: “I’ve never thought about it”

And lastly, it could be that you just haven’t thought about estate planning at all. It could be because you don’t feel you qualify, but it could also simply be not knowing. In life, we don’t know what we don’t know.

So, consider this your public service announcement: An estate plan matters, and by putting one together (no matter your financial situation), you will make closing your estate and distributing your assets and heirlooms much easier on your family during a time of grief.

So, What’s Next?

Now that you understand why estate planning matters and that it applies to you, how do you get started?

Download our free estate planning checklist (download here)
Make an appointment with an estate planning attorney
Look into community and online resources