Planning a Funeral How does one plan for a funeral? There are several phases to funeral arrangement. Phase One: Gathering Information We first gather all the information needed for legal documents and notices. For example, you may be a veteran and wish burial in a national cemetery. We would obtain copies of the proper documents needed at the time of death. We would also get the information for death certificates, life insurance and retirement boards. At this time we would present all the options in the way of the actual funeral service. Would there be a church service or one at the funeral home? Would there be a viewing or visitation? Do you want burial or cremation after the service? Phase Two: Choosing the Type of Service Once you have all the information, you can choose the type of service you want. When your decision making process is completed we can then price out the type of service you selected. At this point you may want to place these funds into a pre-arrangement account. This insures that your wishes will be carried out in the future. You have the peace of mind that the funds are there and no more monies will be required due to inflation. Phase Three: Payments Now or Later Once the decisions are made, the price of the funeral service can be determined. PAY NOW You can pay for the service at this time, which allows you to do the following: · Protect the Cost of the Service From Inflation. Our funded Pre-Arrangements have inflation protection. Regardless of the rate of inflation, we will guarantee the funeral service for the future. This is possible because your account earns interest tax-free. · The Funds for the Service Are Protected. If you would ever have to qualify for Medicaid due to long-term care the government cannot take these funds. PAY LATER You can also decide not to fund the Pre-Arrangement. This option allows you to express your wishes, thus still giving the family guidelines to follow. Paying later, however, does not guarantee the price or that those wishes could be carried out for the future.