Complete Guide to Planning Ahead
Our comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to understanding, organizing, and completing your preneed plans.
Preparing for the future is one of the most loving decisions you can make. This cornerstone guide breaks down the preplanning process into clear, manageable steps.
Prerequisites for Planning
Before you begin, we recommend taking a quiet moment to reflect on your personal values, talk with your family about their comfort level, and gather any existing insurance or legal records you have in place.
Start the Conversation
Share your intention with loved ones. Keep it gentle and focused on organization and peace of mind.
Define Your Choices
Decide on major services, such as burial vs. cremation, and the type of memorial or celebration of life.
Organize Vital Documents
Gather legal, financial, and military records. Keep them in a single, accessible folder.
Action Checklist
Use this list to track your progress:
Planning Steps Checklist
- Discuss preplanning with at least one close family member
- Determine preference between burial and cremation
- Write down preferences for memorial music or readings
- Locate power of attorney and advance directive documents
Download the Print-Friendly Guide
Keep a physical copy of this guide or fill out our planning worksheets offline.
Comprehensive Planning Guide
A print-friendly PDF companion containing all planning worksheets and checklists.
Course Completed!
You have successfully learned the core concepts. Are you ready for the next step? We can connect you with a vetted professional near you to help execute your plan.