Easy Guide to Funeral Planning
Planning a funeral can be emotional and costly, especially when you're unsure where to start. Talking about end-of-life wishes ahead of time can make things easier, but many people avoid this tough conversation. Without a plan, the decisions and choices can feel overwhelming during an already difficult time.
Here’s a simple guide to help you understand what’s involved in planning a funeral.
Common Steps for Planning a Funeral
Below is a list of things to think about when organizing a funeral or memorial service. Not all of them are required, but they can help you stay organized and ensure nothing is forgotten.
- Confirm the Death
Get an official death confirmation from a doctor, hospice nurse, or first responders. - Choose a Funeral Home
Decide on a funeral home to handle arrangements. - Move the Body
Arrange for the body to be taken to the funeral home or coroner (if needed). - Prepare the Body
Choose if you want embalming or other preparations. - Pick Clothing
Decide what the person will wear. - Write the Obituary
Gather important details for their obituary. - Check for Benefits
See if they qualify for special funeral benefits, like veterans' honors or religious services. - Decide Burial or Cremation
Choose how the body will be handled (burial, cremation, etc.). - Pick a Casket or Urn
Select the container for burial or cremation. - Choose a Burial Spot
Decide on a cemetery, mausoleum, or other resting place. - Plan the Service
Choose what kind of service to hold (e.g., memorial, wake, celebration of life) and where it will happen. - Add Personal Touches
Pick flowers, music, photos, or readings to include. - Transportation
Arrange transport for family members and the casket. - Legal Documents
Order copies of the death certificate and get a burial permit. - Food and Gathering
Plan any meals or gatherings for after the service.
Finding Pre-Planned Funeral Details
If your loved one made pre-arrangements, locate their funeral plan and contact the funeral home they worked with. It’s also helpful for families to encourage loved ones to write a “letter of instruction.” This document outlines their funeral wishes, making decisions easier and potentially saving money.
Understanding Funeral Costs
Funerals can be expensive, but knowing your rights can help you avoid unnecessary costs. Here’s how costs are generally divided:
- Basic Service Fee
This includes the funeral home’s services, like managing paperwork and coordinating with cemeteries. - Optional Services
These might include embalming, transport, casket or urn selection, or using the funeral home for a viewing. - Cash Expenses
These cover services like flowers, music, catering, and obituary notices.
Know Your Rights
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires funeral homes to provide a clear price list of all services. You can choose only the services you need—no need to pay for a package deal if it’s not what you want.
For more details about your rights, visit the FTC Funeral Rule website.
Planning a funeral is never easy, but having a clear plan and understanding your options can help ease the process.
Contact Us
📞 Phone: 531-325-7170
📧 Email: Office@xtrakare.com
📍 Address: 319 S 17TH ST, SUTE 418 OMAHA,NE 68102
