End of Life Services

Planning a funeral in advance can relieve your family from making difficult decisions during an already emotional time. Pre-planning also allows you to make your own wishes known regarding the type of service, burial or cremation preferences, and other personal details.

When it comes to paying for funeral services, there are several options available:

• Pre-payment / Pre-arrangement: Many funeral homes offer pre-need contracts that allow you to pay for your funeral in advance, often at current prices. Funds are typically held in a trust or insurance policy.
• Life insurance: A life insurance policy can be designated to cover funeral expenses, with the funeral home named as beneficiary or funds paid to the family.
• Payable-on-death (POD) bank account: A bank account set up to transfer directly to a named beneficiary upon death, which can be used to cover funeral costs.
• Funeral trusts: Irrevocable funeral trusts can be established to fund funeral expenses, and these may not count against Medicaid eligibility limits.

It is advisable to consult with an elder law attorney or financial advisor when pre-planning to ensure your chosen method aligns with your estate and any Medicaid planning needs.