Have the Conversation
Discussing your final wishes probably won’t come up naturally in conversation, so it’s up to you to get the ball rolling. When preparing for a ”final wishes” conversation, it is best to write down your thoughts first and maybe even practice what you want to say out loud. Decide whom you would like to talk with and whether it will be a one-on-one conversation or in a group setting. While your loved one’s might try to steer away from the conversation by asserting that you have plenty of time to make such arrangements, explain that having a plan will give you peace of mind.
Consider also putting together letters for loved ones reiterating your wishes and explaining why this is important to you right now. Be sure to outline your preferences, but also include resources to help them in the event of your death.
Appoint Someone to Act on Your Behalf
A big piece of making end-of-life arrangements is appointing someone to carry them out. This can be accomplished by giving a family member or trusted friend the authority to act on your behalf to ensure that your wishes are met. To do so, you must establish a power of attorney, set up a living will and appoint a Social Security representative. While writing out a will puts you in complete control, a power of attorney will carry out what is laid out in your will should you become unable to do so, so choose wisely. The ideal power of attorney should be someone who lives close by and whom you trust with such a large responsibility. This person should be able to deal with pressure and carry out your wishes no matter what.
It’s OK to Revise Your Will
Perhaps you wrote your will years ago, but things change and your will may need to be updated. For example, perhaps your spouse is no longer living, a child has a name change due to a marriage, or you’d like to add grandchildren. In addition, your wishes 15 years ago could be drastically different now, so review and revise your will as necessary. Meet with an estate-planning attorney (especially if you’re planning an estate sale) to ensure any changes are legal and will be carried forward. Furthermore, if you’ve yet to create a will, don’t fret. It can be accomplished using free, online software. Have an attorney look it over to be sure it meets your state’s laws/regulations.
Plan Your Service
There’s a lot more that goes into planning your service than you might think. Will you have a traditional funeral or would you prefer a memorial service or wake? You also need to pinpoint specific details such as who will speak at the service, special music/readings, and any special items or photos you would like on display. In addition, now would be a good time to write down any information you’d like included in the obituary such as family information, personal details and whether you’d prefer flowers or donations to a particular charity. To be sure you have everything covered, get in touch with Mountain View today.
Planning for Cost
Unfortunately, funerals can get pricey, especially when you factor in funeral home fees. While family members may have worked with a particular funeral home, you may find that they aren’t a good fit for you whether due to the price or services offered. It might sound odd, but it is best to shop around and compare prices, taking into account all service fees and payment plans. Take advantage of savings in any form they come in. For example, did you know you can add a death benefit to your life insurance policy to help pay for your final expenses? Or that you can prepay for final expenses with a funeral home, often locking in prices to protect against inflation? You may also be eligible for assistance via your Social Security or veteran’s benefits.
Life can change in an instant, so it is best to be prepared. By planning your end-of-life arrangements, you give yourself the gift of peace of mind. For family and friends, you give them the gift of knowing that everything is taken care of and your wishes and needs are met.
