Choosing a funeral home early on is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and loved ones. Making your own arrangements allows you to choose a funeral home that meets your needs and accommodates your wishes. Rather than having this process drag on, come with a list of expectations. This way, you can compare funeral homes and select the best one for your wishes.
Below we share helpful tips for selecting a funeral home.
What Requirements Do You Have?
The first thing to consider is what requirements you have. For example:
- What city and state should the funeral home be in?
- Do you want the funeral home to have religious affiliations? Cultural affiliations?
- If you’re planning on cremation, do you want the funeral home to have its own crematory services?
- If you’re planning a burial, do you want the funeral home to have its own cemetery?
- What types of accommodations do you expect, such as handicap bathrooms, a private holding room, etc.?
- What budget were you hoping to stay at?
Selecting a Funeral Home
Choosing a funeral home is an emotional decision, so it can help to bring someone along who can help you make smart decisions. Visit several funeral homes and bring your list of questions along. Ask for a price list so you have an idea of what to expect. You can also ask to see the urns and caskets and meet with the staff.
Funeral directors should be patient and compassionate through the process. Your comfort level with the director is a good indication of how happy you’ll be with the services. After your tour, ask for an itemized quote. At home, you can review the quotes and discuss them with your family. Like any product, you want to be sure that you are getting the best services for the cost.
When you are ready to make a decision, you’ll likely need to pay a deposit and fill out pre-planning paperwork. Take things a step further and put your wishes in writing. Give a copy to loved ones, your lawyer, etc. If anything were to happen prematurely, you would want those closest to you to know your wishes.