Pre-Planning Your Funeral

Give your family peace of mind by planning ahead. Learn the benefits of pre-planning and how to get started with funeral arrangements in Chattanooga.

Why Pre-Plan Your Funeral?

Reduce Family Stress

Spare your loved ones from making difficult decisions during an emotional time. Your wishes will be clearly documented.

Lock In Todays Prices

Funeral costs typically increase 4-5% annually. Pre-paying can protect against future price increases.

Ensure Your Wishes

Make your own choices about the type of service, burial or cremation, and personal touches you want.

What is Funeral Pre-Planning?

Funeral pre-planning involves making decisions about your funeral arrangements before they are needed. This can include:

  • Choosing between burial and cremation
  • Selecting a funeral home
  • Deciding on the type of service (traditional, memorial, celebration of life)
  • Choosing a casket, urn, or other merchandise
  • Selecting a cemetery plot or columbarium niche
  • Planning music, readings, and other personal touches

Pre-Planning vs. Pre-Paying

Pre-Planning Only

Document your wishes without making payment. Your family will know your preferences but will pay at the time of need.

✓ No financial commitment

✓ Easy to change

△ Prices may increase

Pre-Paying (Pre-Need)

Pay for your funeral in advance, either in full or through a payment plan. Locks in current prices.

✓ Price protection

✓ No burden on family

△ Funds may be restricted

How to Get Started

  1. 1

    Think About Your Preferences

    Consider whether you prefer burial or cremation, what type of service you want, and any special requests.

  2. 2

    Research Funeral Homes

    Compare funeral homes in your area. Look at services, reputation, and pricing.

  3. 3

    Meet with a Funeral Director

    Schedule a consultation to discuss your options and get detailed pricing information.

  4. 4

    Document Your Wishes

    Put your decisions in writing and share copies with family members and your attorney.

  5. 5

    Decide on Payment (Optional)

    If you choose to pre-pay, understand the terms and ensure funds are protected.

Important Considerations

Understand the Contract

Read all documents carefully. Know what happens if you move, change your mind, or the funeral home closes.

Ask About Transferability

Can your pre-paid plan be transferred to another funeral home if needed?

Know the Refund Policy

What happens to your money if you cancel? Are there penalties or fees?

Tell Your Family

Make sure your loved ones know about your plans and where to find the documentation.

Pre-Planning Checklist

  • ☐ Burial or cremation preference
  • ☐ Type of service desired
  • ☐ Funeral home selection
  • ☐ Cemetery/columbarium choice
  • ☐ Casket or urn preference
  • ☐ Music and readings
  • ☐ Obituary information
  • ☐ Charitable donations preference
  • ☐ Special requests
  • ☐ Payment arrangements

Ready to Start?

Browse funeral homes in Chattanooga that offer pre-planning services.

Find Funeral Homes

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