End-of-Life Plan Information:
An End-of-Life Plan, or also known as a Funeral Plan, is used in order for one to set out what their wishes are in regard to their funeral once they pass away. An End-of-Life Plan may include the following information: what type of funeral or memorial service the person may want, what is to be done with the person’s remains, what information is to be included in an obituary, and how the funeral services will be paid.
By creating an End-of-Life Plan /Funeral Plan, a person can help relieve their family members from making such decisions and can help to prevent conflict by clearly stating specific wishes and requests that the person wants to be carried out once they pass.
An End-of-Life Plan is an extension of estate planning. A person can ensure themselves with peace of mind by creating this End-of-Life Plan. However, it is important to note that an End-of-Life Plan is different from a Last Will and Testament. The End-of-Life Plan deals with funeral and services planning, while a Last Will and Testament deals with distribution of assets.
Important considerations to think about when creating an End-of-Life Plan include how and where one’s remains will be handled – will they be buried, entombed or scattered; where do you want to be buried or have your ashes scattered? What kind of memorial service would you like to have? Would you like there to be any readings, compositions or music played at your service? By putting your preferences in writing and giving copies of your End-of-Life Plan /Funeral Plan document to family members and others, as well as keeping one copy in a safe place, you can ensure that your wishes are carried out as you want. You can also set aside funds to that your family does not have to plan while grieving.
In the End-of-Life Plan one can also designate whom they want to appoint to carry out their wishes. However, it is important to note that your appointee is not required by law to follow your instructions. It is important to discuss your wishes and plans with your appointee and your loved ones so that they can follow those wishes to the best of their ability. Having your wishes written down in one place helps avoid conflicts, doubts, confusion and discord among family members and loved ones.
If you have designated such wishes in a Last Will and Testament, be aware that most times your Will is not read or found until after the funeral. With an End-of-Life Plan /Funeral Plan document, you can avoid such issues.
Related Documents:
While planning your estate other documents to create include:
Medical Power of Attorney
Living Will
Financial Power of Attorney.