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of Americans have not planned for their funeral
average cost of a funeral with burial
annual increase in funeral costs
of families say planning ahead reduced stress
Planning Ahead Is an Act of Love
Nobody likes to think about their own mortality, but the reality is that planning for the inevitable is one of the most caring and responsible things you can do for your family. When you plan and fund your funeral in advance, you're not just making arrangements for yourself - you're giving your loved ones the gift of clarity, comfort, and peace of mind during what will be one of the most difficult times of their lives.
Many people assume that funeral planning and funding can wait, but the truth is that planning ahead offers numerous benefits that simply aren't available when arrangements must be made after a death. From financial protection to emotional relief, the advantages of planning ahead are significant and lasting.
Six Reasons to Plan Your Funeral in Advance
Each of these benefits provides lasting value for you and your family.
When a loved one passes, family members are often overwhelmed with grief. Making important decisions during this emotional time can be incredibly stressful. By planning ahead, you spare your family from having to take care of this at the time of your death.
- Eliminates family disagreements at this stressful time
- Removes the pressure of making rushed decisions
- Allows your family to focus on grieving and healing
- Ensures your specific wishes are documented and followed
Funeral costs have been rising steadily for decades, with prices increasing an average of 4-5% annually. By planning now, you can reduce the effects of inflation.
- The average funeral costs $7,848-$12,500 today
- In 10 years, that same funeral could cost over $16,000
- Flexible payment options available to fit any budget
Only you truly know how you want to be remembered. Whether you prefer a traditional service, a celebration of life, or something entirely unique, documenting your decisions ensures it reflects your values, beliefs, and personality.
- Choose between burial, cremation, or alternative options
- Select music, readings, and other personal touches
- Specify religious or secular preferences
- Include special requests that matter to you
Get your My Life personal organizer HERE or call us at 855-PLAN-NOW to connect with one of our specialists.
Unlike arranging a funeral after a death, planning ahead gives you the luxury of time. There's no rush, no pressure, and no emotional urgency. You can research options, compare costs, and make thoughtful decisions.
- Take days, weeks, or months to finalize your plan
- Discuss options with family members if you choose
- Make changes to your plan as your preferences evolve
- Work with specialists who can answer all your questions
Your funeral is the final story others will tell about your life. Planning ahead allows you to shape that narrative and create a meaningful experience that honors your memory and provides comfort to those you leave behind.
- Share your life story and accomplishments
- Choose how you want to be remembered
- Create a celebration that reflects your personality
- Leave a lasting impression on friends and family
Planning and funding your funeral is often described as one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give your loved ones. It shows that you care about their well-being even after you're gone, and it removes a significant burden during an already difficult time.
- Demonstrate your love and consideration
- Provide peace of mind for your family
- Reduce stress during an emotional time
- Show responsibility and forward-thinking
The True Cost of Waiting
Funeral costs have increased dramatically over the past several decades, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. By waiting to plan, you're essentially guaranteeing that your family will pay more for the same services.
Rising Costs
Funeral prices increase 4-5% annually, outpacing general inflation.
Financial Protection
Assurance that the funds will be available when they're needed.
Informed Decisions
Take time to compare options and make choices that fit your budget.
Cost Comparison Over Time
*Based on average 5% annual increase. Actual costs may vary.
Should I Prepay My Funeral Expenses?
Prepaying goes a step beyond planning. While planning documents your wishes, prepaying secures the funds so your family never has to worry about the cost.
Planning for Your Funeral
Documenting your funeral wishes and preferences so your family knows exactly what you want.
- Records your wishes in detail
- Removes guesswork for your family
- No financial commitment required
Prepaying
Funding your funeral plan in advance so your family faces zero financial burden when the time comes.
- Everything planning offers, plus...
- Locks in today's prices permanently
- Eliminates all financial burden on family
- Funds protected in state-regulated trust
Why Prepaying Makes Sense
Inflation Protection
Funeral costs rise 4-5% annually. A $10,000 funeral today could cost $16,000+ in just 10 years. Prepaying freezes the price at today's rates, potentially saving your family thousands.
Zero Burden on Family
Without prepayment, your family must come up with thousands of dollars within days of your passing. Prepaying ensures they never have to scramble for funds during their grief.
Medicaid Asset Protection
Prepaid funeral plans are generally exempt from Medicaid spend-down requirements. This means you can protect these funds while still qualifying for benefits if needed.
Flexible Payment Options
You don't have to pay everything at once. Choose from single lump-sum payments, monthly installments, or other plans that fit your budget comfortably.
Guaranteed Service
Once prepaid, your funeral services are guaranteed regardless of future price increases. Your family will never be asked to pay the difference.
100% Refundable
Change your mind? You can cancel your plan and receive a full refund within 30 days.
“Planning my funeral was one of the most thoughtful things I've ever done for my children. Knowing they won't have to make difficult decisions while grieving gives me tremendous peace of mind.”
- Margaret T., planned her funeral at age 67
Common Questions About Planning for Your Funeral
“I'm not ready to think about this yet.”
That's completely understandable. But consider this: planning for your funeral doesn't mean you're expecting to die soon. It simply means you're being thoughtful and responsible. Many people who plan in their 50s and 60s live for decades more - but they have the peace of mind of knowing everything is taken care of.
“I don't know what I want.”
That's exactly why our compassionate specialists are here. They'll guide you through all your options, explain the differences between choices, and help you discover what matters most to you. There's no pressure to decide everything at once.
“What if I change my mind later?”
Your plan is not set in stone. Life changes, and so can your preferences. We make it easy to update your arrangements at any time. Plus, our plans are 100% refundable if you ever decide planning isn't right for you.
“Is my money safe?”
Absolutely. Your funds are held in state-regulated trust accounts, separate from our operating funds. They're deposited in FDIC-insured institutions, and you can receive a full refund at any time. Your investment is completely protected.
