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Prepaid Funeral Plans – A Gift Of Love

Issue 49.12

In a previous article I discussed the peace of mind that comes from pre-planning a funeral or memorial service.  As we enter this Holiday Season another important reason comes to mind.  Pre-planning is one of the finest gifts you can give your loved ones.  It allows you to discuss arrangements with your loved ones and make plans together with a clear mind and in a more relaxed atmosphere.  Pre-planning also helps to protect your loved ones emotionally and financially, at a time when they need that security.  In short, it is a gift of love to those you love.

The following Q & A will answer some of your most important questions.

Do I need to pay for pre-arrangements?

No.  Although there are many benefits to pre-paying, you will have some benefit and comfort by having your wishes and plan on file with the funeral home.

What are the benefits of pre-paying?

You enter into a contract with a funeral home which guarantees the cost of the goods and services at current prices.  Pre-paying beats future inflation by freezing the cost of the funeral at today’s prices.  In addition, it ensures that the financial resources will be there when they are needed, thus lifting the financial burden from your loved ones.

What happens to the money I pay the funeral home?

Consumer protection laws do not allow the funeral home to receive money in advance.  Concurrent with the guaranteed funeral contract, the money is placed with an accredited life insurance company in either an annuity or life policy with you as owner.  This allows you to maintain control of your funds.

What happens if I move, relocate, or desire another funeral home?

Wherever you go, your money will follow.  Changing funeral homes is easy.  The funeral home which provides the funeral or memorial services simply files a claim with the insurance company showing it has provided the goods and services and is paid.

Will another funeral home honor the guaranteed pricing?

It depends on the funeral home.  We, as SereniCare Funeral Home, always honor contracts made by other funeral homes, even though we are not required by law to do so.

Aren’t all funeral homes offering the same services for roughly the same price?

No. There can be great differences in both costs and services provided.  However, price-shopping is made easy by consumer protection laws which require funeral homes to publish a detailed price list.  You can obtain one simply by asking.

Over the years that I have been helping families plan ahead, I have been blessed to see the wonderful gift of love that it becomes for those who are left behind.   Now you can see why I find fulfillment in my work of helping families.

Dick Johnson is a funeral planner and co-owner of SereniCare Funeral Homes.  You may contact Dick by dropping by the funeral home, just off riverside drive, at 1316 S. 400 E., St. George, UT, or call (435) 986-2085, or visit our website at www.serenicare.com.

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