We are often asked questions about funerals and funeral planning and we hope that this section of the website is helpful to you.
What are pre-arrangements and how can they benefit my family and me?
Pre-arrangements are making your wishes and desires known in advance in regard to your funeral arrangements. People who choose to pre-plan feel like they are saving their loved ones the burden at a time of great emotional stress by taking the time to make some very important decisions now. Pre-arrangements can be as simple as telling us what type of arrangements you want. These plans may include a traditional service and burial, cremation or direct burial. We also co-ordinate all arrangements when there is an out of town burial.
I made my pre-arrangements at another funeral home. Can I transfer them whether I've paid for them or not?
We get this question often and the answer is yes. It’s as simple as contacting us and we will get the paperwork in order for you to make the transfer. You do not have to contact the other funeral home. We will take care of everything for you.
I heard that pre-planning can save my family money. How does this work?
We choose to place all of our pre-funding with secure and trustworthy insurance companies. We place your money in an insurance policy. This allows us to guarantee the cost of the funeral in today’s price. You and your family will never see an increase in the price of the funeral. Essentially, we lock in a lower cost that results in savings for your family.
I purchased burial insurance thru another funeral home. Can I use that insurance at your funeral home?
Yes, you can. The insurance policy is owned by the insured; therefore it is transferable to any funeral home.
I would like to make pre-arrangements, but I’m not financially able to pre-pay at this time. What should I do?
You are on the right track already because you have made the important decision to pre-plan your funeral. Your family will appreciate that they do not have to determine the type and cost of your funeral. Contrary to belief, you do not have to pay any money at the time of pre-planning. Some people choose to set up a payment plan based on their budget. We help others to organize their records so we get a true picture of the life insurance policies and what funds are available. Others elect to pay for the funeral services all at one time. Basically, it is your decision and we strive to work with each individual family based on your needs.
Is it true that Social Security will pay toward funeral expenses?
The answer to this question varies from individual to individual. For people who qualify, Social Security will pay up to $255. This amount is paid to the family, not the funeral home. It is our policy to file all necessary documents – death certificates, insurance claim forms, and Social Security notification – for the family and we will assist the family in determining what Social Security will pay.
My husband is a veteran. What is he entitled to at the time of his death?
When requested by the family, the basic Military Funeral Honors ceremony is conducted for the deceased veteran. It includes the playing of the Taps and the folding and presentation of the United States flag to the veteran’s family. Also, veteran’s who qualify are entitled to a grave marker supplied by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs. To establish veteran eligibility, the family needs to provide the DD Form 214 to us. This form is the certificate of release or discharge from active duty. If a family does not have this form, we can help to acquire it for them.
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