What choices do I need to make?

One of the most difficult aspects to planning is simply knowing where to begin. There are many decisions required when arranging a funeral. These include:

  • do you prefer to be buried or cremated?
  • what sort of coffin or casket would you prefer?
  • should a funeral service be held?
  • if so, where should the funeral service be held and what format?
  • are there certain religious or fraternal customs to be followed?
  • do you wish to involve a specific organization or club in the service?
  • are there any special readings, biblical passages or musical selections you prefer?
  • do you wish to be buried in particular clothing or jewellery?
  • would you like refreshments at the funeral home following the service?

 

Start planning today.

Although there are many decisions to be made when arranging a funeral, as experienced funeral directors we can assist you in all stages of planning. Some considerations to start your planning are:

 

Who should arrange the funeral?
There is no simple answer. Some family members find it very difficult to arrange the funeral when a person has just died. Without having discussed the choices beforehand, some people do not know which choices to make. Other family members are sometimes offended if they are not included in assisting with the funeral arrangements. They want to lead the organisation of a final tribute.

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When is the best/worst time to arrange a funeral?
Arranging a funeral immediately upon a person’s death is rarely the most ideal time, yet this is when most funerals are arranged. Those who inevitably arrange the funeral at this time are close to the deceased, grieving and already facing many stresses. Making funeral arrangement prior to death, or at the very least discussing funeral arrangements with those close to you, greatly assists those left behind.

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Should I pre-pay my funeral?
It depends. You should see your financial advisor for specific financial advantages. Paying for your funeral in advance protects you against inflation as you pay at today’s prices. Your funeral director guarantees the funeral services you select at a fixed price.

Your money is invested in a funeral bond secured by government legislation. With a Nelson Bros pre-paid funeral, your money is invested with another long-term secure Australian icon, Australian Friendly Society.

More information about Pre-Paid Funerals.

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Shall I include funeral arrangements in my will?
No, your will is not the best place to record your funeral arrangements. In most situations, wills are not read until well after the funeral. To ensure that your funeral is carried out as per your wishes, you should discuss them with family members or friends, or record them in a booklet such as Nelson Bros Personal Planning Guide.

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Nelson Bros Personal Planning Guide
Contact any of our funeral homes for your free Personal Planning Guide. This Guide, when completed, provides important information to help your family meet some of the legal or statutory requirements in the event of your death. Remember to keep your completed Guide in a safe but easily accessible place known to family members.

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Should I be buried or cremated?
This can be a very emotional choice for your family. As you may have a personal preference, pre-planning can relieve your family and friends of this responsibility.

Some people have a preference based upon their religious beliefs or customs. Others make their decision based on financial reasons. Whatever the reason for your preference, it is usually best to advise others of your preference or to plan your funeral in advance.

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What type of funeral service do most families select?
Most prefer a traditional funeral, however you may have personal, cultural or religious needs that are important to you and your family. Your needs are as important to us as they are to you, and so we try to honour any special preferences or requests that you may have.

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How much does a funeral cost?

Funeral expenses cover a broad range of goods and services, including those of the funeral director and those of third parties.

Read more about Funeral Expenses here.

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Many events in our lives are planned in advance hoping they never happen. Pre-planning or pre-paying a funeral is simply an extra component of financial planning. It makes you aware of future costs and enables you to prepare for them.

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