When creating an estate plan, many people think about their wills, trusts, and other legal documents. However, one aspect that is often overlooked is planning for their funeral.
In California, it is possible to include funeral arrangements in your estate plan.
Include funeral instructions in your will
One option for planning your funeral in your estate plan is to include funeral instructions in your will. This can include details such as your preferred burial or cremation arrangements, the type of service you want and any specific requests you may have. However, it’s important to note that funeral instructions in a will are not legally binding, so it’s a good idea to also discuss your wishes with your loved ones and make arrangements in advance with a funeral home.
Create a revocable living trust
Another option for including funeral arrangements in your estate plan is to create a revocable living trust. You can change or revoke this type of trust during your lifetime and can include specific instructions for your funeral arrangements. By creating a revocable living trust, you can ensure that your wishes are legally binding and that your loved ones will have a clear plan to follow.
Consider prepaying for funeral expenses
In addition to including funeral arrangements in your estate plan, you may also want to consider prepaying for funeral expenses. This can help alleviate the financial burden on your loved ones and ensure that they understand your wishes. However, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable funeral home and prepaid funeral plan.
Planning your funeral in your estate plan is a helpful way to ensure your loved ones know what you want and help ensure they are not burdened with difficult decisions or financial obligations during an already challenging time.