Pre Plan My Funeral: A Practical 10-Step Guide

Key Highlights

• Pre-planning your own funeral spares your family from making over 125 decisions while grieving.
• Thoughtful funeral planning can significantly reduce funeral costs by allowing you to compare prices.
• Making funeral arrangements in advance provides immense peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
• This guide provides a 10-step process to help you document your wishes and make informed choices.
• Understanding your rights, like the FTC's Funeral Rule, protects you from unexpected expenses.
• Communicating your plans is a final act of love, reducing family stress and potential conflict.

Introduction

Thinking about planning your own funeral might seem uncomfortable, but it's one of the most considerate gifts you can give to your family. Making funeral arrangements ahead of time removes the burden of difficult decisions from your loved ones during a stressful period. This guide is designed to walk you through the process, helping you document your wishes and find peace of mind, knowing that your final farewell will reflect your life and values.

Understanding Funeral Pre-Planning

Funeral pre-planning is the process of making decisions about your funeral service and final disposition before you pass away. This involves everything from choosing between burial and cremation to selecting the music you'd like played.

By engaging in advance planning, you work with a funeral director or provider to document your preferences. This ensures your wishes are known and can be followed, sparing your family from guessing what you would have wanted during a difficult time.

Why Consider Pre-Planning Your Funeral

Making funeral arrangements for your own funeral is a truly good idea that provides clarity and comfort. When you take the time to plan, you remove the guesswork for your family. They won't have to wonder if they are making the right choices because you will have already made the important decisions for them. This thoughtful act ensures your final wishes are honored just as you intended.

The process of pre-planning allows you to consider what is most meaningful to you. Do you envision a traditional service or something more unique? By outlining these details, you shape your own legacy. This provides a profound sense of control and completion, allowing you to focus on living your life to the fullest.

Ultimately, pre-planning brings peace of mind not just to you, but to everyone who cares about you. Knowing that everything is taken care of is an incredible relief. It transforms a potentially stressful situation into a well-managed process, guided by your own thoughtful choices.

The Emotional and Financial Benefits for Your Family

When a loved one passes away, family members are often overwhelmed by emotional stress. Having to make dozens of decisions about funeral arrangements under the pressure of time only adds to their burden. Pre-planning is a true act of love that lifts this weight from their shoulders, allowing them to grieve without the added strain of logistical planning. It gives them the space to heal and remember you.

Beyond the emotional relief, pre-planning can also shield your family from high funeral costs. Grieving families may sometimes overspend due to guilt or sales pressure. By making sensible choices with a clear mind, you can lock in prices and avoid unexpected expenses, preventing your loved ones from facing a sudden financial burden.

This foresight brings lasting peace of mind. Your family will find comfort in knowing they are honoring your exact wishes, which helps prevent potential disagreements about service details or costs. It is one of the most compassionate gifts you can provide.

Key Elements to Know Before You Start

Before you begin creating your funeral plans, it's helpful to understand some of the basics. Familiarizing yourself with common terms and the types of services available will make the process much smoother and less intimidating. This knowledge empowers you to make confident choices.

Advance planning is about being informed. Knowing what to expect from funeral directors and what your rights are ensures that you can navigate the conversations with ease. Let's look at some key terms and service options you'll encounter.

Common Terms Used in Funeral Planning

When you start discussions with a funeral home, you will encounter specific terminology. Understanding these terms is crucial for making informed funeral arrangements. For instance, the service type refers to the kind of ceremony you want, while a cemetery plot is the specific piece of land for burial.

One of the most important documents you'll encounter is the General Price List (GPL). The Federal Trade Commission’s "Funeral Rule" requires funeral homes to provide this itemized list at the start of any discussion. This allows you to see the costs for each service and product individually.

Here are a few other terms you should know:

• Direct Cremation/Burial: A simple option without embalming or a formal service.
• Viewing/Calling Hours: A time for friends and family to pay respects before the main service.
• Memorial Service: A service held without the body present.

Types of Funeral Services and Ceremonies

Choosing the type of service is a central part of funeral planning. A traditional funeral often includes a viewing or visitation, a formal service at a funeral establishment or house of worship, and then a procession to the cemetery for burial. This is a familiar structure for many cultures and religions.

Another popular choice is a memorial service. Unlike a traditional funeral, a memorial service is held without the deceased's body present and can take place weeks or even months after death. This offers great flexibility in terms of location, timing, and style, allowing for a more personalized celebration of life.

Ultimately, the right type of service depends on your personal, spiritual, and cultural preferences. You can also opt for a simple graveside service, a family-led gathering at another location, or no ceremony at all. The decision is entirely yours, and documenting your preference is a key step in pre-planning.

What You’ll Need to Pre Plan Your Funeral

To effectively pre-plan your funeral arrangements, you'll need to gather some specific information and documents. Having these items on hand will make the process of outlining your funeral service much more straightforward and ensure all the important details are covered.

This preparation helps you create a comprehensive plan that is easy for your loved ones to follow. Let's review the personal documents you should collect and the essential information required to arrange a meaningful service.

Important Personal Documents to Gather

Having the right personal documents organized is a critical part of pre-planning. These papers provide legal and financial information that your family will need. A will or trust is essential for asset distribution, but it's often read too late to guide funeral decisions, so separate documentation of your funeral wishes is key.

An advance directive, or living will, is another vital document that outlines your medical wishes but does not typically cover funeral plans. However, it may include instructions for organ donation. Your life insurance policy is also important, as it can provide the funds to cover funeral expenses.

Make sure to gather and keep these documents in a safe, accessible place where your family can find them. Some of the most important personal documents include:

• Will and/or Trust documents
• Life insurance policy information
• Advance directive
• A written record of your funeral wishes

Essential Information for Funeral Arrangements

Beyond formal documents, you'll need to record the specific service details that reflect your final wishes. This information provides a clear roadmap for your family members, ensuring your funeral service is a true reflection of you. Think about the atmosphere you want to create and the elements that are most important to you.

Consider details like the location of the service, who you'd like to speak or perform a eulogy, and whether you prefer burial or cremation. Other personal touches, such as specific music, readings, or flowers, make the ceremony more meaningful. Documenting these preferences removes ambiguity and helps your family honor you in the way you wanted.

Communicating this information is just as important as writing it down. Share a copy of your plan with a trusted family member or your designated executor. A simple conversation about your choices can prevent confusion and give your loved ones confidence that they are fulfilling your final wishes correctly.

Exploring Your Funeral Service Options

A key part of pre-planning is exploring the different types of funeral service options available to you. Your final wishes can be as traditional or as unique as you are. Understanding the choices will help you select a path that aligns with your values, beliefs, and budget.

From the long-standing traditions of burial to modern, eco-friendly alternatives, there is a wide range of possibilities. Let's look at the differences between burial and cremation, as well as some other green choices you might consider.

Burial vs. Cremation: How to Decide

One of the first and most significant decisions in your final arrangements is choosing between burial and cremation. A burial typically involves interring the body in a casket at a cemetery. This option provides a permanent physical location for family to visit, which can be a source of comfort for many. However, the cost of a funeral with burial is often higher due to expenses for the plot, casket, and vault.

Cremation, which uses heat to reduce the body to ashes, offers more flexibility. The remains can be scattered, kept in an urn, or buried. Generally, cremation has lower funeral costs than a traditional burial. Your decision may be influenced by personal, religious, or financial factors. There is no right or wrong answer—only what feels right for you.

Here is a simple comparison to help you decide:

Feature

Burial

Cremation

Process

Body interred in a casket in the ground.

Body reduced to ashes using high heat.

Cost

Generally higher due to plot, casket, and vault.

Typically more affordable.

Flexibility

Limited to a cemetery location.

Ashes can be scattered, kept, or buried.

Environmental Impact

Higher due to land use and materials.

Lower land use but uses fossil fuels.

Alternative and Green Funeral Choices

If you are concerned about the environmental impact of traditional end-of-life options, there are several alternative funeral service choices available. A growing number of people are interested in green options that are more sustainable and gentler on the planet. These choices allow you to return to nature in a meaningful way.

Green burial is one popular alternative. This practice avoids embalming fluids and non-biodegradable materials. The body is placed in a simple shroud or biodegradable casket and buried in a natural setting, allowing it to decompose naturally. Other modern, eco-friendly options are also gaining traction.

Here are a few choices to consider:

• Soil Transformation (Human Composting): A process that gently transforms a body into nutrient-rich soil.
• Aquamation (Alkaline Hydrolysis): A water-based process that is more energy-efficient than flame cremation.
• Green Burial: A simple, natural burial that minimizes environmental impact.

How to Choose a Funeral Home or Provider

Selecting the right funeral home or provider is one of the most important steps in pre-planning. The funeral director you choose will be your partner in carrying out your final wishes, so it's essential to find one that is transparent, compassionate, and a good fit for your needs.

Don't hesitate to shop around. Prices and services can vary significantly between different funeral providers, even within the same town. Researching your options will help you find a trustworthy establishment that respects your choices. Let's explore what to ask and how to understand their offerings.

Questions to Ask When Selecting a Funeral Home

When you meet with a funeral director, being prepared with questions is key to finding the right funeral home. A reputable provider will be happy to answer your questions openly and provide clear information without pressure. Your primary goal is to understand their services, costs, and approach.

Always start by asking for a General Price List (GPL). The law requires them to give you this price list to keep, and it details the cost of every service type and product they offer. This is the best tool for comparing costs between different providers. If a funeral home is hesitant to provide a GPL or posts its prices online, consider it a positive sign of transparency.

Here are some important questions to ask:

• Can I have a copy of your General Price List?
• Do you offer packages, or can I select services and goods individually?
• What are my options for burial and cremation?
• How do you handle pre-payment plans and what are the protections?
• Are you willing to work with arrangements I make, like supplying my own casket?

Understanding Pre-Arranged Funeral Plans

Pre-arranged funeral plans allow you to formalize your funeral arrangements directly with a funeral establishment. When you create a pre-arranged plan, you are documenting all your choices, from the type of service to the casket or urn, and leaving it on file with the funeral home. This ensures they have a clear record of your wishes.

Many pre-arranged funeral plans also include a pre-payment option, where you pay for the services in advance. This can be done through a trust or an insurance policy. The funeral home places the funds into a regulated account where they remain until they are needed. This can lock in today's prices and protect your family from future inflation.

It's important to understand how these plans work. Find out if the plan is revocable (can be canceled) or irrevocable, and whether it is transferable to another funeral home if you move. A transparent provider will clearly explain the terms of any pre-arranged funeral plans they offer.

Making Decisions About Ceremony Details

Once you've made the big decisions like burial or cremation, you can focus on the service details that will make your funeral arrangements unique. This is your opportunity to infuse your personality and personal preferences into the ceremony, creating a farewell that truly reflects who you were.

These personal touches are what make a service memorable and meaningful for your loved ones. From the music played to the readings shared, every detail helps tell your story. Let's cover how you can personalize the service and select other important elements.

Personalizing the Service: Music, Readings, and Rituals

Adding personal touches is what transforms a standard service into a heartfelt tribute. Think about the music that has been meaningful throughout your life. Do you have a favorite song, artist, or genre? Selecting the music is a simple yet powerful way to set the tone for your service and share a part of yourself with your guests.

You can also include specific readings, poems, or religious texts that reflect your beliefs and values. Consider including cultural traditions or rituals that are important to you and your family. These elements add depth and authenticity to the service details. You can even write notes for your own eulogy or ask a specific person to speak.

Communicating these choices is essential. Documenting them in your funeral plan is the first step, but also be sure to discuss them with your family. This ensures everyone understands the significance of your selections. Consider including:

• A playlist of your favorite songs
• Copies of specific poems or readings
• Notes on any cultural traditions you want included
• A list of people you'd like to participate in the service

Selecting Attire, Flowers, and Keepsakes

Other service details, such as attire, flowers, and keepsakes, also contribute to a personalized farewell. Your personal preferences on these items should be included in your plan. If you have a favorite outfit or type of clothing you'd like to be dressed in, make a note of it. This small detail can be very meaningful.

When it comes to flowers, do you have a favorite bloom or color? Or would you prefer that guests make a donation to a charity in lieu of flowers? Specifying your wishes for flowers can guide your loved ones and prevent them from guessing. Your choices should reflect what is most important to you.

You might also consider keepsakes for your guests, such as a small photo, a packet of seeds, or a bookmark with a favorite quote. Documenting all these preferences in a legally recognized funeral plan or an advance directive that covers final wishes is the best way to ensure they are followed.

Step-by-Step Guide to Pre Planning Your Funeral

Now that you understand the key elements, let's walk through the process of funeral planning. Following a step-by-step guide can make making your final arrangements feel manageable and less overwhelming. Each important step builds upon the last, leading you to a comprehensive and thoughtful plan.

This structured approach ensures you cover all the necessary details, from your biggest wishes to the smallest personal touches. Let's begin with the first decision you'll need to make.

Step 1: Determine Your Wishes for Burial or Cremation

The very first step in planning is to decide on your method of final disposition—primarily, choosing between burial and cremation. This is a foundational decision that will shape many of your other final wishes. Take time to consider your personal preferences, spiritual beliefs, and family traditions.

Think about what feels most authentic to you. A burial provides a permanent resting place, which can be comforting for some families. On the other hand, cremation offers flexibility for memorialization and is often a more affordable option. There are also green alternatives like natural burial or soil transformation if environmental stewardship is one of your core values.

Discuss your thoughts with your family to understand their feelings, but remember that the ultimate decision is yours. Once you have made a choice, you can move forward with planning the other elements of your service, confident that your most fundamental preference is established.

Step 2: Select a Funeral Home or Provider

Once you've decided on burial or cremation, the next step is to choose a funeral home or provider. This is a critical part of the funeral planning process, as this funeral director will be responsible for carrying out your wishes. It's wise to research and compare several funeral providers in your area.

Look for a funeral home that is transparent with its pricing and willing to answer all your questions. Ask for their General Price List to compare costs for the services you want. Consider visiting a few locations to get a feel for the atmosphere and the staff. A good provider will make you feel comfortable and respected, not pressured.

This is also the time to discuss pre-arranged funeral plans. Ask how they work, what's included, and what your payment options are. Choosing a trustworthy provider you connect with will give you confidence that your plan is in good hands.

Step 3: Outline the Details of Your Ceremony

With a provider selected, you can now focus on the service details. This is where you decide on the type of service you want. Will it be a traditional funeral, a memorial service, a simple graveside gathering, or something else entirely? Your choice should reflect your personality and how you wish to be remembered.

Think about the specific elements you want to include. Consider religious or cultural elements that are important to you. Plan the music, readings, and who you would like to speak. Do you want a formal tone or a more relaxed celebration of life? Outlining these details ensures your service will be a personal and meaningful event.

Don't forget the smaller touches, like flowers, photographs, or a memory table. Every detail you outline helps create a complete picture for your loved ones to follow, making the planning process much easier for them when the time comes.

Step 4: Document Your Choices and Store Them Safely

After you've decided on all the important details, the next crucial step is to write everything down. A formal, documented plan is the best way to ensure your funeral arrangements are carried out as you intended. Create a dedicated file that contains all of your choices, from the funeral home you selected to the songs you want played.

Include copies of any contracts you've signed, such as a pre-need agreement, along with other essential personal documents. This centralizes all the information your family will need, preventing a stressful search for paperwork. Make sure your documentation is clear, concise, and easy to understand.

Store this file in a safe but accessible place. Do not put it in a safe deposit box, as your family may not be able to access it immediately after your passing. Give a copy to your executor or a trusted family member and let them know where the original is located.

Step 5: Communicate Your Plans with Loved Ones

Documenting your final arrangements is essential, but this important step is incomplete without communicating your plans to your family members. Having a conversation about your funeral wishes ensures that everyone is on the same page and understands your choices. It can also be a meaningful opportunity for connection.

Choose a calm, private moment to talk. Frame the conversation as an act of love—you are doing this to make things easier for them later on. Walk them through your plan, explain your decisions, and answer any questions they may have. This openness can prevent misunderstandings or conflicts down the road.

Let your loved ones know where you've stored your documents and who is designated to carry out your plans. While it might feel like a difficult conversation to start, most families report feeling a sense of relief and gratitude once it's done. Clear communication is the key to ensuring a smooth process for everyone involved.

Step 6: Explore Pre-Payment Options and Protections

As you finalize your plans, you may consider pre-payment. Paying for your funeral in advance can lock in current prices, protecting your family from rising funeral costs and relieving them of a financial burden. However, it's crucial to approach pre-payment with caution and be fully informed.

There are different ways to pre-pay, such as setting up a trust with a funeral home or purchasing a final expense insurance policy. Funeral providers can explain the options they offer. Before you commit, understand the terms completely. Ask if the plan is revocable and if you can get a full refund if you cancel.

Also, inquire about what happens if you move or if the funeral home goes out of business. Ensure your money is held securely in a federally insured bank or state-regulated trust. A safer alternative might be a payable-on-death (POD) bank account, which gives you more control over the funds.

Step 7: Review and Update Your Plans Over Time

Funeral planning is not a one-time task. It is an important step to periodically review and update your plan to ensure it still reflects your wishes and circumstances. Life changes, and your preferences for your funeral might change too. It's a good idea to look over your plan every few years or after a major life event.

You may move to a new city, change your mind about burial or cremation, or want to update the music or readings you've selected. Reviewing your plan also allows you to account for changes in current prices and ensure your financial arrangements are still adequate.

Yes, you can absolutely change your funeral plans after pre-planning. Most pre-need agreements are adjustable. If your plan is revocable, you can make changes or even cancel it. If it's irrevocable, you can typically still transfer it to a different funeral home. Regularly updating your plan ensures it remains a true reflection of you.

Legal and Financial Considerations in Funeral Pre-Planning

When you pre-plan your funeral, it's important to be aware of the legal and financial aspects involved. Understanding your rights and the regulations that govern the industry can protect you and ensure your funeral wishes are honored. State laws can vary, so it's good to know the rules where you live.

From making your wishes legally binding to understanding your protections when paying for funeral costs in advance, being informed is your best defense. Let's look at how to secure your plan and what rights you have.

How to Ensure Your Funeral Wishes Are Legally Binding

While your funeral wishes are deeply personal, ensuring they are followed often depends on how you document them. In most places, simple instructions in a will may not be legally binding for funeral arrangements because a will is often read after the funeral. Therefore, taking additional legal steps is a good idea.

Some state laws allow you to create a legally binding declaration of your wishes. This can be done through a specific form or as part of an advance directive. This document legally appoints an agent to make your funeral decisions and directs them to follow your stated preferences. This is one of the strongest ways to ensure your choices are honored.

A pre-need contract with a funeral home is also a powerful tool. When you formalize your plan and especially when you pre-pay, you are creating a service contract. Check your state's laws to understand the specific requirements for making your funeral wishes legally enforceable.

Rights and Protections When Prepaying for Your Funeral

Yes, there are important rights and protections you should be aware of, especially when it comes to funeral costs. The most significant is the "Funeral Rule," enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This rule gives you the right to receive an itemized price list (the GPL) from any funeral home you visit and to buy goods and services individually rather than as a package.

This rule empowers you to compare costs and choose only the items you want, which is a key part of smart funeral planning. When prepaying, your protections often depend on state law. Some states, like New York, require 100% of prepaid funds to be placed in a trust and offer the right to a full refund on revocable plans.

Before signing any pre-payment contract, ask how your money is protected. Is it in an insured trust? Is the plan transferable? What are the cancellation policies? Understanding these protections is essential to safeguarding your investment and ensuring the funds will be there when needed.

Avoiding Common Mistakes in Funeral Pre-Planning

While creating funeral plans is a wise decision, there are a few common mistakes that can undermine your efforts. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you make smarter funeral arrangements and avoid creating new problems for your family, such as confusion or unexpected expenses.

From the risks of prepaying without proper research to failing to make your documents accessible, a little foresight goes a long way. Let's explore some common errors to watch out for so your plan provides the peace of mind it's supposed to.

Pitfalls to Watch Out for When Prepaying

Prepaying for funeral arrangements can be beneficial, but it also comes with risks if you're not careful. One of the biggest mistakes is assuming the prepaid amount will cover all future funeral costs. Due to inflation, the money you pay today might not be enough for a funeral years from now, potentially leaving your family with a surprise bill.

Another common pitfall is locking your money into an inflexible plan. If you move or simply change your mind, you may not be able to get a full refund. In some cases, the cash-out value of an insurance-funded plan is much less than what you paid in premiums. You lose access to that money for other emergencies.

Before prepaying, it's crucial to understand the contract fully. Watch out for these issues:

• Lack of Portability: The plan may not be transferable to another funeral home if you move.
• Hidden Fees: The contract may not cover everything, leading to additional costs later.
• Business Closure: The funeral home could go out of business, putting your funds at risk if not properly protected.

Ensuring Your Documents Stay Accessible and Updated

One of the most common and easily avoidable mistakes is failing to make your plans accessible. You could create the most detailed plan for your final arrangements, but if your family can't find it when they need it, it's of no use. Never store the only copy of your funeral plan in a safe deposit box.

Instead, keep your personal documents and the important details of your plan in a clearly labeled folder at home. More importantly, give copies to your executor, a trusted family member, or your lawyer. Make sure they know where the original documents are stored and what their role is.

Regularly reviewing and updating your plan is just as crucial. Life circumstances and personal preferences change over time. A quick review every few years ensures your plan remains current. This simple habit guarantees that the final arrangements that are carried out are the ones you truly want.

Communicating Your Funeral Plans With Family

After you have thoughtfully prepared your funeral plans with a clear mind, the final and perhaps most crucial step is to share them with your family members. Openly communicating your funeral wishes is an act of kindness that prevents confusion and ensures everyone is on the same page.

This conversation, while potentially emotional, is invaluable. It provides an opportunity to explain your choices and answer questions, bringing comfort and clarity to those you love. Let’s explore how to start this discussion and reduce potential stress.

How to Start the Conversation

Bringing up the topic of your own funeral can feel awkward, but it doesn't have to be. The key is to approach the conversation with love and a clear purpose. You are not being morbid; you are being responsible and considerate of your family members.

Choose a time when everyone is relaxed and not rushed. You might frame the discussion by saying you've been doing some life planning and want to share your funeral wishes to make things easier for them in the future. Emphasize that this is a gift to them, designed to remove stress during an already difficult time.

To make it easier, try these conversation starters:

• "I was thinking about the future and wanted to make sure my final wishes are clear. Can we talk about it?"
• "I've made some decisions about my funeral plan, and I'd love to walk you through them so you know what I want."
• "This is important to me, and it would give me peace of mind to know we're all on the same page."

Tips for Reducing Family Stress and Conflict

A primary goal of pre-planning is to reduce the emotional stress on your family members. A lack of clear instructions can cause a lot of stress and sometimes lead to disagreements among loved ones who have different ideas about what you would have wanted. Your clear plan is the best tool for preventing this.

When you communicate your plan, listen to your family's feelings and answer their questions patiently. Explaining the "why" behind your choices can help them understand and accept your decisions. Reassure them that by following your plan, they are truly honoring you, which can be a great source of comfort.

Here are a few tips to ensure the process brings peace of mind, not conflict:

• Be Clear and Specific: Vague wishes can be misinterpreted. Put everything in writing.
• Appoint One Person: Designate one person as your agent or executor to make the final decisions.
• Share Copies: Give copies of your plan to key family members so there are no surprises.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pre-planning your funeral is a compassionate act that not only eases the burden on your loved ones but also allows you to express your personal wishes for how you want to be honored. By understanding the key elements of funeral planning and making informed decisions, you can ensure that your choices reflect your values and preferences. Whether it’s selecting the type of service or communicating your plans with family, being proactive helps avoid potential conflicts and stress during a difficult time. If you're ready to take the next step, consider booking a free consultation to discuss your options and ensure your wishes are respected.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best age to start pre planning my funeral?

There is no "best" age, but many people start funeral planning in their 50s or 60s. However, doing advance planning for your own funeral at any adult age is a wise decision. It provides peace of mind and ensures your funeral arrangements are in order, no matter what the future holds.

Can I change my funeral plans after pre-planning?

Yes, you can absolutely change your funeral plans. It's an important step to review and update your funeral arrangements periodically to reflect any changes in your final wishes. Most pre-need agreements are flexible, allowing you to modify service details or even transfer the plan to another provider.

How do pre-arranged funeral plans work with funeral homes?

Pre-arranged funeral plans involve working with a funeral director to document your funeral arrangements and service details. You formalize your choices with the funeral home, and you may also pre-pay. The funeral home keeps your plan on file, ensuring they can execute your wishes when the time comes.

What documents should I provide to ensure my wishes are followed?

To ensure your funeral wishes are followed, provide a written document detailing your funeral arrangements. Key personal documents include a pre-need agreement with a funeral home, a legally appointed advance directive covering final wishes, your will, and information about your life insurance policy to cover costs.