How to Get Started With Pre-Need Burial Planning
Not sure what steps you need to take? Follow this step-by-step burial planning guide.
Plan For the Future
Get our free guide to help you start the process
- Different burial options
- Helpful tips and advice
- Why to plan now
- Securing Peace of Mind
- How to get started
Plan For the Future
1: Who Are You Planning For?
The first part of the process is understanding who it is you are burial planning for. While you may be only planning for yourself, often time spouses or entire families will plan ahead together Our Family and Friends Referral Program extends to non-immediate family members and our advisors are also equipped to handle planning for large groups and organizations as well.
Depending on the circumstance, anticipated time horizon, and most importantly the wishes of the person you are planning for, there are few things to consider. If this is a pre-need burial plan for yourself and/or spouse as a way to complete a financial life plan or to take the burden off of your family later, you should complete a funeral planning checklist and speak to one of our sales counselors to begin planning how your life story will be told. If you are planning for a loved one to ensure their final wishes are carried out, you should use this planning guide to capture their thoughts on how they want their legacy to be honored. You can also call and speak to a sales counselor who will help you uncover the important things to consider and plan for. If you are planning for someone who is currently unable to assist with this process due to their condition or personal preference, it would be helpful to have a copy of their living will on hand if it exists so we can identify some of those important things to consider.
2: What Options Do You Have?
There are many things to consider when deciding on your burial plan: what type of burial you would prefer, how and where you would like to be memorialized and cost are just a few of the options.
The first thing to consider is what type of burial you would prefer. Note that not all options are available at all of our properties, so its best to speak to one of our family service counselors at your preferred cemetery or funeral home. However, the most common options are:
- In-Ground Burial
- Above Ground in a Private or Community Mausoleum
- Lawn Crypt
- Cremation
- Natural Burial
Not only are there many different types of burial choices, but there are also a variety of funeral service options available as well. Some of the most common include traditional religious services, non-religious services, direct cremation and a green or natural funeral. Again, our family service counselors can help advise you on what options are available and how to pick one that best tells your story.
Needed Burial Items
Different Ways to Get Started
Did You Know?
Many Families are Planning Ahead
3: Find a Location Near You
There are many different cemeteries and funeral homes and many different reasons to choose what feels right for you and your family. One important discussion to have when pre-planning your burial is where you would like to have your services. Waiting may limit your options or may force your loved ones to have your arrangements done in a different area than you would have preferred.
Use our cemetery and funeral home finder to see locations that are closest to where you would like to have your final arrangements.
Want to advance plan in a different city or state than your currently reside in? That's not a problem, as our advisors can meet to discuss options with you either over the phone or through a video chat in addition to meeting with families in home or at the cemetery.
4: Get Started with Your Pre-Need Burial Plan Now
Ready to get started with your Advance burial plan? Just use the box to the right to find a cemetery near you, fill out some information and get a free burial planning guide. You will also receive a call from a friendly representative to help get you started as well with setting a consultation.
