Issue 4.12
Last month we contributed an article to the Senior Sampler concerning the cremation pre-planning process. We have been overwhelmed by the response we received and by the number of misconceptions people had concerning pre-planning. Many of you are considering cremation for yourselves or for your loved ones and need accurate information.
What is the greatest misconception in prepaying your final expenses? These policies are completely transferable, even if you move out of state. When you prepay for your final expenses at a funeral establishment, your funds are held by a third party insurance company until the time of death. This is done as a protection to the consumer. The funds remain in your name to do with as you wish. Many people are not aware of this fact and feel that they will be or are “locked in” to a certain funeral home and unable to transfer their plan. This is not the case. You own your policy – not the funeral home.
In some cases, when you transfer your preplan you may even receive money back. Many funeral homes do not want you to have this information because, of course, they don’t want to lose your business. You will receive money back if the funeral home or cremation center you are transferring to is less expensive than the original establishment. The excess proceeds will therefore be returned to the family as a result of more competitive pricing. But remember – if a price sounds too good to be true, it usually is. One firm’s advertised price is rarely all-inclusive. Be sure to do your homework and compare an establishment’s stability, integrity, and complete pricing.
Our pre-planning professionals are available to give you advice. We will help you choose from the many options available, outline the costs, and make recommendations, if necessary. We will give you the honest answers you deserve. Pre-planning is easy and only takes about one hour.
The Cremation Center of Southern Utah is a fully-licensed funeral home specializing in cremation. W. Russell Atkin is a licensed Funeral Director and Licensed Insurance Agent with 14 years of experience. To obtain your copy of a free cremation planning guide, contact us today by visiting our office at 1316 S. 400 E., Ste. A5, St. George, or call (435) 986-9100.