Prepaid funeral plans can provide peace of mind, ensuring that many aspects of your final arrangements are taken care of in advance. However, it’s important to note that not everything related to a funeral or burial may be included in these plans. Here are some common items and services that might fall outside the scope of a prepaid funeral plan:
1. Grave Plot or Cemetery Costs
While prepaid plans often cover funeral home services, the cost of the grave plot or cemetery fees (such as perpetual care and maintenance) may not be included. These expenses often need to be arranged and paid for separately.
2. Headstone or Marker
Prepaid funeral plans typically do not include the cost of a headstone, grave marker, or engraving. Additionally, fees for installing a marker at the cemetery may also need to be covered separately.
3. Opening and Closing of the Grave
The charges for opening and closing the grave, which involve digging and filling the plot, may not be covered in a prepaid plan. Be sure to inquire whether this service is included.
4. Transport of the Deceased Across State or Country Lines
If the person passes away in a different location from where they wish to be buried or cremated, the cost of transporting the body across state or international borders is often excluded from prepaid plans. This could add a significant cost depending on the distance involved.
5. Additional Services
Services such as catering, receptions, or hiring musicians for the memorial service are usually not included in prepaid plans. These can be important elements for some families, so it’s worth considering how these extra services will be handled.
6. Death Certificates
Obtaining official death certificates for legal or financial purposes sometimes come with additional costs. Since prepaid plans usually don’t cover these, you may need to pay for these documents when the time comes.
7. Obituaries
While some funeral homes may assist with drafting obituaries, the publication of obituaries in newspapers or online often involves a fee that is not covered by prepaid plans.
8. Flowers
Floral arrangements for the service, casket, or urn are not typically part of prepaid funeral plans. These arrangements can be an added expense depending on the type and size of the arrangements you choose.
9. Upgraded Coffins or Urns
Most prepaid plans include a basic coffin or urn. However, if you wish to have an upgraded or custom option, the additional cost may not be covered by the plan.
10. Inflation and Future Costs
Some prepaid funeral plans lock in prices at current rates, but others may not account for inflation or rising service costs. In this case, your loved ones might need to cover the difference between the amount prepaid and the actual cost at the time of need.
11. Funeral Officiant Fees
Fees for officiants—whether religious or secular—who lead the funeral or memorial service may also be excluded from prepaid plans.
Why It’s Important to Review Your Plan
Prepaid funeral plans can alleviate the burden on your loved ones, but it’s crucial to understand what is and isn’t included to avoid unexpected expenses. Reviewing the details of the plan carefully and asking questions about potential gaps in coverage will ensure your final wishes are fully honored without additional financial stress on your family.
Consider talking to a funeral director or prepaid plan provider to clarify exactly what’s covered, and make any necessary arrangements to handle services or items not included in the plan.
What can I do to help my family manage extra costs not covered by my funeral preplan
If unexpected funeral fees arise that are not covered by a prepaid funeral plan, there are several options to help manage these costs. One approach is to set aside a designated fund or savings account specifically for funeral expenses. Another option is to purchase a final expense insurance policy, which is designed to cover costs like memorial services, burial, or cremation. Crowdfunding platforms can also be useful if family members or friends wish to contribute. Additionally, some funeral homes offer payment plans, allowing families to spread the cost over time. Lastly, certain government programs or charities may provide financial assistance for those who qualify, helping to ease the burden of unexpected expenses.
