Should You Include Funeral Arrangements in Your Estate Plan?
No one wants to think about their own funeral. Thinking about leaving your loved ones behind is daunting and many people have a genuine fear about it. Although you may not want to consider it, you may have certain thoughts regarding your funeral arrangements and what you do or do not want included in it. You can include your preferences for funeral arrangements in your estate plan, but where you include it is very important. Below, our Utah estate planning lawyer explains in greater detail.
Why Clarify Your Wishes for Funeral Arrangements?
Planning a funeral is rarely easy, but it becomes even more difficult after someone has recently passed away. Deciding how a loved one will be put to rest is not only an extremely personal decision, it is also a complicated one. When your family members are grieving your loss, they may make rushed decisions without fully considering all options.
Instead of forcing your loved ones to make these decisions for you, it can help to include your wishes for a funeral arrangement in your estate plan. It is not uncommon for people to have strong feelings regarding whether they want to be cremated or buried and including your preference in your estate plan can ensure that your wishes are respected and ease the burden on your family.
Where to Include Funeral Arrangements in Your Estate Plan
Many people think they should include their preferences for funeral arrangements in their will, but this is typically a mistake. In Utah, wills do not have to be submitted to the probate court right away. Instead, the personal representative has three years after the decedent’s death to file the will with the probate court. Due to this, wills are often not read until after the funeral has already taken place.
Instead of using your will, you can include your desired funeral arrangements in an advance healthcare directive or a power of attorney. This will ensure your loved ones are aware of your preferences in the event that you pass away. If you become incapacitated, a power of attorney or advance healthcare directive can also inform your loved ones of your wishes.
Lastly, you should also speak to your family so they are aware of your wishes. These conversations are not easy, but they are important.
What Instructions to Include
There are many different instructions you may choose to include in your power of attorney or advance directive. These are as follows:
- Whether you wish to be buried or cremated
- The urn or container you would like your remains stored, if your preference is cremation
- Preferences for the ceremony, such as the music, religious requests, desired readings
- Pallbearers for the graveside service, if having
- Where to store or scatter your remains, if you choose cremation
Our Estate Planning Lawyer in Utah Can Help
When planning your estate, you will have many questions. At AGS Law, our Utah estate planning lawyer can answer them so you can make informed decisions and move forward with confidence. Call us now at 801-477-6144 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get the information you need.
Source:
le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter2/C75-2-P5_1800010118000101.pdf
