Thinking about your own funeral may not be pleasant, but having a funeral directive in place is a thoughtful and helpful thing you can do for your loved ones. By making these decisions now, you can provide your family with clear guidance and give them one less thing to worry about during an already difficult time.
What Is a Funeral Directive?
A funeral directive is a legal document that allows you to outline your wishes for your funeral. It gives you the opportunity to:
- Appoint a trusted individual to make funeral arrangements on your behalf
- Specify how your funeral or memorial service should be conducted
- Indicate how expenses should be paid
- Direct whether your organs should be donated
- State whether you want burial, cremation, or another form of disposition
Why You Should Have a Funeral Directive
When someone passes away without a funeral plan, family members are often left scrambling to make quick decisions while grieving. A funeral directive:
- Reduces conflict among family members
- Eliminates uncertainty about your wishes
- Provides peace of mind knowing your preferences will be honored
- Speeds up the decision-making process for funeral arrangements
Appointing a Designated Funeral Representative
A funeral directive lets you appoint a designated funeral agent or representative to carry out your wishes. This person will have the authority to make decisions about your funeral, cremation or burial, and the disposition of your remains.
Choose someone you trust, and make sure they are willing to serve in this role. You should also communicate your preferences to them in writing—and verbally if possible.
Deciding How the Funeral Will Be Paid For
Your funeral directive can include instructions on whether your funeral should be paid for out of funds from the estate, and if so how much. Planning for costs in advance helps ensure your family won't be financially burdened or left guessing about what you would have wanted.
What Can You Include in a Funeral Directive?
A funeral directive can be simple or detailed. You can choose to include:
- Your preference for burial, cremation, or donation to science
- The location of the service (e.g., a church, funeral home, or other venue)
- Religious or cultural traditions to follow
- Who should be notified or invited
- Music, readings, or speakers you'd like
- What kind of memorial (if any) you would prefer
How to Create a Funeral Directive
You can use our online software to create a funeral directive by answering a simple questionnaire.
Helpful Resources
- Nolo: Funeral Planning Guide
- Funeral Consumers Alliance
- FEMA Funeral Assistance Program
- FTC Guide to Funeral Costs and Services
While no one enjoys thinking about their own funeral, taking the time to create a funeral directive shows care and consideration for your loved ones. It gives them peace of mind, helps avoid unnecessary stress, and ensures your wishes are honored exactly as you intended.
Start your funeral directive today as part of your overall estate planning. Your family will thank you.