Begin Your Planning by Organizing

We all have documents and information which others would have trouble locating: military discharge papers, Social Security numbers, bank accounts, safety deposit box keys, insurance policies, relatives' addresses. All of these items should be organized to be certain everything will be found. Insurance companies report that life insurance benefits are often unclaimed because survivors were unaware a policy existed.

Government Benefits

With the number of revisions in government benefits over the years, it is important for each person to, not only be aware of these changes, but also understand how to protect their benefits.

• Social Security: Your Social Security account should be verified periodically to ensure contributions are properly posted. All benefits must be applied for - payment is not automatic. Since qualifications vary, we recommend personally discussing your particular situation with your local social security office. Upon death, dependents and survivors may be eligible for certain death benefits such as Death Payments, Survivors' Benefits and Medicare. Qualifications depend on age, marital status, number of dependents and if employment was under Social Security.
• Veterans' Benefits: Because qualifications and benefits vary, we recommend a personal review of your situation. There are many misconceptions regarding Veterans' death benefits. Honorably discharged veterans may qualify for cemetery plot and burial allowances, headstone, burial flag and/or a pension for survivors. These benefits may effect decisions about funeral arrangements.
• Medicaid: We can explain the provisions under Federal Title 19 to you. Few people are aware of the provisions under Federal Title 19 where an individual can shelter funds to serve the family later by providing for pre-need funeral arrangements.

Information you need when coming to make your loved one's arrangements

We have to get information to meet state requirements. Here is what you need to know about your loved one:

• Social Security Number
• Full name
• Maiden name or any aliases
• Birthplace, date of birth.
• Parents names. Mother’s maiden name.

There are other decisions you must make when meeting with our staff when planning your funeral:

• Have you selected a cemetery or memorial location?
• Are certain religious or fraternal customs to be followed?
• Do you wish to have a military service?
• Do you prefer a particular charity as recipient of memorial gifts?
• Do you wish to name pallbearers?
• Do you wish to be buried in particular clothing or jewelry?
• Are there any special readings, biblical passages, or musical selections you prefer?
• What type of monument or marker do you prefer?

Most people are unsure how to secure benefits and to be certain everything will be carried out according to their wishes. Often people delay making a Will because they feel they have little of value to leave behind. Your Will is vital to ensure your belongings are properly distributed and to avoid excess taxes on your estate. A Will allows you to name an executor -- someone whom you are confident will carry out your wishes. You should have an attorney prepare your Will to be sure legal requirements are met.

This list is far from complete, but it gives you an idea of the many decisions involved in planning a funeral.

Of course you can save your family from having to come up with this information or make these decisions by making pre-need arrangements. We can assist you in all stages of planning, from completing paperwork to helping and counseling the bereaved. We retain a complete record of your plans to ensure they are carried out on your behalf. A funeral trust account or final expense insurance is not a requirement of pre-arrangement, but the benefits merit serious consideration. Finally, be sure to advise your loved ones of your decisions and the arrangements you have made. Knowing everything is taken care of will give both you and your loved ones peace of mind.