Sunday, March 26, 2023 | Special Advertising Section 1 R 8 continued from page 7 Burial plot space where caskets are placed by depth versus side-by-side can cut costs, as can opting for a niche, a granite, marble or glass space where cremated ashes are stored. When comparing pricing at various burial plot locations, ask what’s included when you buy a plot in advance. Bargain-plot hunters can scout out selections on Craigslist and PMA’s website. Just don’t sign anything or hand over money until checking with the cemetery that the deed is valid, Parks says. Consider how to pay Some people set aside funds in a special account for death-related costs. Others prepay for funeral or burial costs to cover expenses and reduce any financial burden on the family. But prepaid funeral contracts can also be confusing, whether called “burial insurance” or “final expense insurance.” Before signing up for a prepaid plan, ask how the plan works, what happens if the funeral provider goes out of business, whether refunds are available, and if additional or unexpected costs might arise later. Find more questions and considerations on the PMA website. Create and share documents PMA suggests making a copy of your Disposition Authorization and Designated Agent Forms for death arrangements and discussing your wishes with survivors. Keep the original documents with essential papers, and ensure your survivors know where to find everything. At a minimum, a “values letter” can outline what’s important to you about your death care. “Your No. 1 concern might be that they don’t spend too much money, following the guidance of your religious leader, or making the most environmentally friendly choices possible,” Tryk says. “This helps prevent family from being locked into a plan that may not be the most costwise decision at the time of your death.” When and if a family member has preplanned, survivors usually just need to pick a date. “Families always ask if it’s inappropriate to be laughing, and I tell them no, because you have some closure,” Parks says. “Now that the pressures of these decisions are done, you’re free to start celebrating their life.” ! " # " $ % # # # $ " ! " ! "# $ % ! & " ' ( ! !
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