Today, more people are recognizing that planning a funeral in advance of need demonstrates love and consideration toward their family members. It is a thoughtful decision that reduces the stress of indecision and uncertainty when death occurs.

The following information has been prepared to answer some of the questions we frequently receive about pre-arrangement.

Why do people pre-arrange a funeral service for themselves or a family member? There are many good reasons. Some plan ahead because there will be no one who is capable of making responsible decisions. Others have a definite preference concerning their funeral service, and they want their families to be informed and involved in those decisions.

Many people pre-arrange because they like the peace of mind knowing there will be adequate funds to cover funeral expenses. Also pre-payment can provide real benefits when you are applying for Medicaid in the U.S.

Most importantly, pre-arrangement guarantees that rational decisions can be made ahead of time without the usual urgencies when death takes place.

What steps are involved? After you determine your funeral preferences, we will explain your options and guide you in establishing your own plans. You should find the advice of your family, clergy, and your funeral director especially helpful when considering the options. We will record certain vital information and gather documents for the required forms.

Next, you can select a casket, burial vault, and other merchandise associated with the services. Finally, you may pay for the services and merchandise ahead of time through our funding program.

What will the pre-arranged funeral service cost? The cost is based on your choice. All of your selections and options are featured in our itemized pricing guide. This guide provides factual information concerning each item and its price.

Funding the pre-arranged service is a choice most people make to ease possible financial pressures on their family. Pre-funding allows you to pay for the funeral service at current prices. As your plan grows over time, it offsets inflation and should provide adequate funds for the future cost of the funeral.

Funding those arrangements with insurance coverage in advance of need is a relatively new idea that is offered by funeral homes. An individual may insure his or her life for the full present day cost of the funeral arrangements. For those who qualify, our program can provide immediate and considerable cost savings.

Who Qualifies? Individuals between the ages of 0 and 99 may apply. No medical examination is required for the life insurance, just a simple questionnaire that is completed after advance funeral plans have been made.

Pre-Planning Advantages...

Increasing Death Benefits - Reduce the impact of inflation, which would otherwise increase the cost of your funeral.

Extended Payment Options - Our insurance plans are underwritten by Fortis Family Life Insurance Company. There are various payment options available. Even people on a tight budget can gain the advantages of funding their pre-planned funeral service.

Funding Options

How Do You Pre-Pay For A Funeral? - You may select one of two ways to pre-pay for a funeral.

Pre-Payment In Full - The first method is to make payment in full. This will guarantee the price of the funeral and merchandise selected.

Pre-Funding Through Life Insurance - Pre-funding funerals is a growing trend in America because of the peace of mind that comes from having one's affairs in order. Funding those arrangements with insurance coverage or a trust are the two ways we handle pre-funding.

Your Funding Is Secure - Your funding is backed by Fortis Family - and industry leader for more than 60 years. Today, Fortis Family provides preneed insurance with nearly 1.5 million policies. They consistently earn high marks for financial stability from the top financial ratings companies in the country.

Tax Free Value, Tax Free Death Benefits - Our plan provides life insurance benefits that are exempt from federal income tax when paid to a named beneficiary. Neither the increasing value of the coverage nor the total benefits paid at the time of death are federal income taxable.

WHY PLAN AHEAD?

Planning in advance of need provides peace of mind. The death of a loved one is a time of great loss and advance planning can reduce stress for your family with the knowledge that your preplan has been completed. This allows your loved ones to devote more time to coping and understanding the loss and less time concerned with funeral arrangements and financial details.

MERCHANDISE AND FUNERAL COST

Your Funeral Director understands that your personal choices are of the utmost importance. Your Funeral Director will meet with you to show the quality merchandise, assist you with the selection of the necessary merchandise and help you make the proper arrangements. Through pre-planning the cost of a funeral will be controlled. Merchandise selection during your pre-planning helps insure that you do not exceed what you want to pay. Pre-payment also offsets the risk of rising funeral costs in the future due to inflation.

Life Insurance Protection

Contact your insurance agent. Learn about the types of coverage and which your family will need. Keep your policies in a safe place. Notify your beneficiaries about your insurance and the location of the policy certificates.

Your Will

Ensure your affairs will be administered after your death correctly. A properly prepared will is essential. Without a will, your property and holdings will be distributed according to law and a court will appoint an administrator to probate your estate.

Contact your attorney soon if you do not have a will. If you do have one, review and update it regularly.

To start your pre-arrangement please fill out the form below.