Let’s talk about something none of us really want to discuss: Funeral planning. For the great majority of us out there, we would rather do anything else than think about what will happen when it is time for our funeral. While no one can blame you for feeling that way, would you rather leave all of the decisions to your loved ones?
By not having a plan and your wishes listed out, you are essentially putting the entire burden of your funeral and disposition of your body on your loved ones. If those decisions are ones you feel your loved ones can handle, then a setting funeral plan may not be necessary. Keep in mind, however, that your family and friends will already be grieving. The last thing many of them will feel equipped to do is plan your funeral or burial.
In a typical estate plan, you are able to prepare what is called a funeral planning declaration. The document lists out any specific wishes you have for your funeral or final plans. The plan can be whatever you want it to be. If it is important to you that you be cremated or that your funeral be a religious ceremony in a specific church, you can list that information in detail. You can designate the funeral home where you would like your arrangements to be, songs played at your funeral, or who your pall bearers will be. You do not have to necessarily plan out all of the above. A funeral planning declaration simply gives you the ability to be as specific as you wish to be. After you pass away, your funeral plan will be kept with your estate documents and will be easily accessible to your loved ones. Be sure that your personal representative or trustee is aware that a funeral plan does exist and make sure he or she knows where to find the document.
Yes, the topic is not an easy one to discuss, but it is one that is necessary for all of us. The more you plan now, the easier you make life for your loved ones following your death. If you have any questions about what a funeral planning declaration entails or wish to discuss setting up your estate plan, contact Sullivan Law at 248-917-1351 or email at asullivan@sullivanlawonline.com.