Pre-Planning FAQs

For many, it feels like there’s an overwhelming amount of things to think about! But in all honesty, taking control of the important things in life just feels good; you know it's the right thing to do for you and your family.


Pre-planning versus pre-funding? I've heard both terms, what is the difference?

Pre-planning is making all of your arrangements ahead of time so that everything can be conducted according to your wishes, for peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. Pre-funding is taking care of all costs for your pre-planning, so that everything is taken care of for you and your family.


Can I move a previously planned arrangement?

Yes. If you choose to move your arrangement to another cemetery, we can help transfer your plans to any cemetery in the United States that accepts the contract. You should never have to feel stuck in your decisions.


Can I take care of the costs now?

Yes. You are welcome to take care of all costs now, so that later on, all your family has to do is to focus on and celebrate your life. When you choose to pre-fund your final arrangements, your money is put in a state-approved funding option until needed. After your funeral is paid for in full, you will never have to pay more for the guaranteed items you listed on your contract.


If I pre-plan with West Gate Funeral Home, what are my options if I change my mind later on?

When you pre-plan with West Gate Funeral Home, your plan will go where you go. No matter where you reside at the time of your passing, no matter what funeral home you choose to work with, your plan will be transferable to any funeral home in the United States that accepts the contract. Your peace of mind is of the utmost importance to us.


I want to approach my family and talk to them about my plans. Do you have suggestions for doing this in the best way possible?

You are truly helping your family and doing a great deed by taking care of planning something that is so personal and important to you. Remember to respect their feelings and emotions, as this can possibly be a difficult subject to broach with them. Assure them that you are making these plans because you love them and want them to feel free to celebrate life and heal together when the time comes. Find additional resources here.


What do I do when I have completed all my pre-planning? Is there anything else I should be aware of or need to do?

Relax and rest assured knowing that your wishes will be met, your needs have been taken care of and there's a capable team at West Gate Funeral Home that is always available to answer your questions or thoughts.

Prepare

Laying the foundation for a well thought out plan for you or a loved one takes a bit of time, but, it's worth every moment spent. After all, you’re setting the stage for a more relaxed and enjoyable life, because you’ll have the peace-of-mind preparedness brings. Here’s what to do to get started:

- Prepare a contact list of individuals who should be notified in a medical emergency or death.

- Write an obituary or simply jot down information you would like included in an obituary.

- Decide where obituary and memorial information should appear.

Choose the type of service you would like including the burial you prefer and make those arrangements. You will need to decide:

- Cemetery lot location

- Casket type; cremation urn type

- Vault or sectional crypt

- Type of service: religious, military, non-denominational, or fraternal

- The contact details for the funeral home you designate to care for you

- Pallbearers, music, flowers, scripture or other readings

- Charity to receive donations in lieu of flowers, if donations are preferred

- Select the speakers and the eulogies that you would want to represent you.

- Decide what organizations or church will benefit from memorial donations in your name.

Arrange and Delegate

The people who know and care about you will be there when you need them. You only need to provide them with instructions, important financial details, and then relax. You’re in good hands.

- Give your Executor a copy of your Will. Safety deposit boxes are often opened up during the estate settlement process, long after the funeral. Any funeral planning documents therein can be of no help to your executor.

- Make sure your representative has a list of important account information or telephone numbers for retirement plans, insurance policies, investments, bank accounts, safe-deposit boxes, properties, preferred law and accountant firms and mortuaries. Remind your personal representative that the Social Security Administration will need to be called and, if you're receiving benefits such as those from the Veteran's Administration, they should be contacted as well.

- Designate a power of attorney to ensure that proper information can be accessed in the event of your illness or death. Make sure a durable power of attorney for health care and a living will are in place so that your wishes are carried out if you are unable to do so.

- Make arrangements for telephone and utilities services, and newspaper and magazine deliveries, to be cancelled.

Pay for:

- Cemetery and memorialization services

- Funeral arrangements, including clergy, florist and transportation

- Make arrangements for pets to find a new home.

You can also contact us for additional information. We're pleased to answer any questions you may have, without obligation.

We know that you may have other questions, so feel free to call us at any time at (601) 445-2008 or (601) 786-0326 so that we can walk you through your options and help you create the best possible plan for you.

(601) 445-2008 or (601) 786-0326