A Helpful Pre-Planning Checklist

Planning funeral arrangements is never going to be a task we look forward to, but pre-planning has serious benefits. It locks in today’s prices, and it makes a difficult time so much simpler for your loved ones. Below is a helpful checklist for you to use if pre-planning is on your mind. Be sure to connect with the team at the Park; we’re here to help. 419-882-7151 or info@toledomemorialpark.com

Record Basic Personal Information

  • Full legal name

  • Social security number

  • Date and place of birth

  • Parents’ names, including your mother’s maiden name

  • Military service details, if applicable

  • Marriage/divorce history

  • Current address and emergency contact

Decide on Your Final Disposition Preference

  • Burial

  • Cremation

  • Donation to science

  • Alternative options

  • Note your cemetery preference if choosing this option

  • Note preference for ashes (urn, scatter, interment at cemetery)

Outline Your Service Preferences

  • Funeral, memorial service, celebration of life or none

  • Religious, secular or cultural traditions

  • Preferred location

  • Preferred music, readings, speakers, etc

  • Any other specific preferences

Budgeting

Compare Prices and Document Provider Preferences

  • Research local funeral service providers

  • Compare prices

  • Note your preferences

Decide on Payment Planning

  • Prepay or save funds in a separate account

  • Life insurance for end-of-life expenses

  • Avoid non-transferable contracts

Finalize Legal Documents

  • Create or update your will or trust

  • Consider a living will

  • Put a durable power of attorney in place

  • Visit the National Institute on Aging for expanded information on legal needs

Write or Outline Your Obituary

  • List a family member or loved one to be in charge of executing the obituary

  • List key life details and accomplishments to be included

  • List of family members to include

  • List charities to receive donations in lieu of flowers

Important Contacts

  • Attorney or executor of the will

  • Employer or professional contacts to be notified

Gather and Store Important Documents in a Safe Place

  • Birth certificate

  • Marriage/divorce records

  • Military discharge papers

  • Insurance policy information

  • Property deeds and titles

  • Important password list

  • Funeral arrangements written plan (also share this with family in advance)

Revisit Regularly

  • Update your will after major life changes

  • Update final arrangements plan if your wishes change

  • Update beneficiaries as needed