Whether it's expected or it occurs suddenly, a person's loss places emotional strain on the remaining loved ones. For many, that stress magnifies as they make arrangements for the funeral while trying to find the time to mourn appropriately. Funeral preplanning is a solution that benefits everyone. It ensures that your final wishes are observed while also alleviating the burden placed on your friends and family. To better understand the preplanning process, consult the guide below. 

What Should Be Part of Your Funeral Preplan? 

1. An Updated Will

A detailed estate plan is a way to provide one final gift to your loved ones. Money, holdings, and property can be distributed appropriately, ensuring the right individuals receive what they deserve. Unfortunately, many people pass away with outdated or incomplete wills, and more than half of Americans don't have an established estate plan. Without the direction of a will, the assets are placed into probate or intestacy. Either process can lead to contention between family members and may result in the court providing a solution that doesn't reflect your actual wishes. 

2. Type of Service

A traditional funeral will display the casket or urn of the deceased, allowing friends and family members a chance to say their goodbyes. While many traditional funerals are often religious in nature, with a priest, pastor, or minister providing a sermon, you can choose a secular option instead. Rather than a religious figure, a friend or loved one may instead deliver a eulogy. 

Some people prefer a celebration of life service, where the tone is more upbeat. Loved ones may sing or dance to uptempo music and will share happy memories and anecdotes about the deceased. 

3. Preferred Resting Place

Many more people are embracing cremation memorials rather than traditional wakes. The deceased's ashes are displayed in an urn for the wake or viewing in a traditional ceremony. Depending on your wishes, the ashes can then be scattered or buried. Family members may also keep possession of the remains, so you're always with them. 

4. Prepayment for Arrangements

Funeral preplanning is about decreasing the burden on family members, including financial stress. You can pay for the service ahead of time, either in one lump sum or through monthly payments. Prepaying is beneficial, as it ensures you have the specific funeral you want. The amount will not be adjusted for inflation, making the service more affordable. In some areas, your beneficiaries may be entitled to a refund if the funeral ends up costing less than the amount of money set aside. 

The preplanning process is a simple one when making arrangements with Cremation Service Of Western New York. For 30 years, Rochester, NY, residents have relied on them for comprehensive and compassionate guidance. Their full-service offerings include the transportation and the respectful handling of the remains for the deceased's final wishes. Together, you'll create a plan that honors your memory and eases the burden placed on your loved ones. For more information on their funeral preplanning services, visit their website or call them at (585) 544-4500.