In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some of the basics on prepaid funeral arrangements, plus why they're an ideal approach for some people and families. From peace of mind across the board to the ability to lock in prices early and more, there are a few reasons why prepaid funeral arrangements might be a good idea for you or a loved one.
At McDougal Funeral Home, we're here to help with all elements of funeral planning across Salt Lake City, Taylorsville, West Valley City and nearby areas, from our pre-planning checklist to advanced directive assistance, funeral plans and more. While it's true that some people benefit greatly from prepaid funeral arrangements, they're also not for everyone necessarily. Here are some of their possible downsides to keep in mind as you're considering this option.
Typically No Refunds
While this is not a major downside for most people, it's true that most prepaid funeral arrangements are non-refundable once they have been paid for. If you're considering this option, it's a good idea to ask the funeral home or other provider in advance about their refund policies and make sure that you understand them before making any payments.
May Not Cover Unforeseen Changes
Another thing to be aware of is that prepaid funeral arrangements may not cover unforeseen changes in the future. For example, if you opt for a prepaid arrangement today and then prices or other elements change when it comes time for the funeral, you may have to make up the difference yourself.
It's also worth noting that some prepaid funeral arrangements may not include certain things that you might want to add once the time comes. For example, if you plan to have a catered meal for friends and family after the service or purchase additional memorial items, these would likely be outside of any prepaid funeral arrangement.
Can Be Challenging To Transfer
It's important to keep in mind that prepaid funeral arrangements are not always easy to transfer. Depending on the provider, you may have difficulty transferring a prepaid plan to another funeral home or provider. So if you move somewhere else in the future, it's a good idea to discuss this with your funeral home and see what kind of options they may be able to offer.
Now, these downsides alone often are just minor inconveniences. For many people, they are a small price to pay for the peace of mind and the reliability that prepaid funeral arrangements offer. At McDougal Funeral Home, we can help you weigh all your options and make the choice that's right for you. Contact us today to learn more about our funeral planning services or any of our related programs.
