As an estate planning attorney, I work closely with my clients to develop a customized plan that will meet their goals and needs. That plan usually includes the client’s direction for their funeral arrangements, varying from no funeral at all to a celebration of life. Times have changed over the years – not that long ago most clients chose a traditional burial with a visitation followed by a wake. That is not necessarily the case anymore. There are many options now, and in my opinion, providing direction about what you want after you die relieves your loved ones from trying to figure out what you would have wanted. There are more choices than the ones below, but please review and think about what you want to include in your plan if you haven’t already (Note: the cost for each option is just a general estimate as an example, and can vary depending on geographic location and extent of services).
Traditional burials are still popular, of course, and often include the service, burial, and wake or visitation. This option typically includes embalming, a casket, hearse, cemetery plot, and headstones. Often following family or religious tradition, the cost can exceed $15,000.
Cremation with a memorial service held later has grown in popularity for a few reasons. Cost being one of them (usually less than $8,000). With immediate cremation, the family can be flexible in scheduling the memorial service when it suits all parties; meanwhile, the cremains can be buried, kept in an urn, scattered (where legal), or incorporated into memorial items (pendants, for example).
Direct cremation is also becoming more popular as it is the simplest and least expensive option. No formal viewing or funeral service. Families may, or may not, choose to hold a private service at a later date. Cost is usually less than $3,500.
A green (natural) burial is appealing to those seeking a smaller environmental footprint. It usually avoids embalming chemicals and uses biodegradable caskets or burial shrouds. Burials take place in a natural or conservation cemetery. The cost range is often between $3,000 and $8,000.
A celebration of life is a highly personalized occasion focused on the person’s life and legacy. Generally, a celebration of life includes photos, music, videos, storytelling, and a more relaxed atmosphere. There are no rules; it can be held in a home or a banquet hall, indoors or out. Cost varies depending on the venue, services, food, and other factors.
Currently in the U.S., cremation has become the most common choice. Many families choose direct cremation followed by a celebration of life. What is important is that you include your wishes in your estate plan. That lifts that decision off your loved one’s shoulders, which is the loving thing to do. If you need to update your plan (or start one) and want to talk about this and other elements of estate planning, I’d be honored to help you. At the end of the day, it’s all about protecting your hard-earned assets and your loved ones. Please call me so we can get started. I can be reached at 513-399-7526. Or visit my website at www.davidlefton.com for more information.