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 Thinking about one's own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that planning their own service offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With preplanning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. For your family's sake, write down everything you think the executor of your estate will need to know to carry out your wishes. This information should match the information in your will. We have attached a document that you can download to your computer that contains all the required information for your preplanning. Click on the link and follow the instructions on the first page of the document: Planning Ahead Document Biographical Information You should list all your biographical and financial information, including:
Every adult should have a will, regardless of age or financial situation. A will is a legal document that can prevent many serious problems for those you leave behind. It ensures that your personal property will be distributed according to your wishes. Without a will, your possessions will be distributed by a court appointed administrator. And it is unlikely that your possessions would be distributed the way you want. So if you don't already have a will, plan to have one drawn up as soon as possible. It's in your and your family's best interests to do so. When you have your will drawn up, you will also want to name an executor of your estate. The executor should be someone in whom you have complete confidence. That's because this person will be responsible for carrying out the provisions in your will. In addition, since wills may be contested due to legal technicalities, we recommend you use the services of a competent attorney to draw up your will, as well as to help settle your estate. Making Arrangements When the Need Arises Contact your insurance agents to update all insurance policies and annuities for beneficiary and ownership corrections. Make sure that the deceased is not listed as beneficiary on any policies in force. Notify all former pension fund accounts of the deceased to receive benefits and change accounts to show proper ownership. Correct stocks, bonds, mutual funds and other assets (real estate holdings, limited partnership, etc.) to show current name of owner. Contact banks, savings & loans and credit unions where finances are kept to make proper name change. (Review with your legal advisor to possibly add dependents or relatives names to accounts.) It's true. Making financial decisions rationally, before the need, affords you the time and patience it takes to make good choices. The emotional issues at the time of death can sometimes cloud judgment, and the stress of having to make these choices can get in the way of what's really important, healing. Powles Funeral Home offers you this prearrangement form as a way to get started. |  |
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