7 Essentials For Your Funeral Pre-Planning Checklist

No one likes to think about the end of life. We get it. But are you aware that pre-planning your funeral is actually a good thing? 

It can be one of the most thoughtful and empowering gifts you can give to your loved ones. Reason? It spares them emotional stress during a difficult time and ensures your personal wishes are honored.

We understand how sensitive this process can be. That’s why we’ve created a simple, compassionate, and practical pre-planning checklist to guide you every step of the way.

1. Decide Between Burial and Cremation

This is the first major decision to make in your preparation for death and the afterlife. Would you prefer a traditional burial or cremation? Each has unique emotional, spiritual, and financial implications.

• Burial offers a physical place for loved ones to visit, often including a casket, headstone, and cemetery plot.

• Cremation offers flexibility, allowing ashes to be scattered, stored, or buried.

Tip: Talk with your family about your choice and document it clearly to avoid future confusion.

2. Choose the Type of Funeral or Memorial Service

Your farewell should reflect your values, beliefs, and personality. Some common types include:

• Traditional funeral service with a viewing, ceremony, and burial

• Memorial service held after cremation or burial

• Celebration of life with a more uplifting tone and personal touches

Decide on the location (funeral home, church, park, or private home) and outline how formal or casual you’d like it to be.

3. Appoint a Funeral Agent or Executor

Designate someone you trust to carry out your wishes. This person, often called a funeral agent or executor, will coordinate with the funeral home, oversee arrangements, and handle logistics.

Make sure they:

• Are aware of your plans

• Have access to your documents

• Are emotionally and logistically capable

Tip: Include this designation in your will or legal pre-planning documents.

4. Select a Funeral Home and/or Cemetery

Research local funeral homes and cemeteries that align with your preferences and budget. Many offer pre-paid packages, which can lock in today’s rates and relieve your family from future costs.

Ask about:

• Services offered

• Customization options

• Costs and payment plans

If you're choosing a cemetery, consider plot location, maintenance, and religious or cultural guidelines.

5. Document Key Personal Details

Your funeral is also a celebration of your life. Help your loved ones by compiling:

• Full legal name and date of birth

• Military service information (for honors or burial benefits)

• Religious affiliations or preferred clergy

• Photos, quotes, or readings for the ceremony. 

• Obituary information or key milestones

Having these on file prevents guesswork and honors your story accurately.

Tip: Use MTL’s QR Code plaque that connects to a digital memorial page that contains your favorite music, photos, videos, and beautiful memories that keep your legacy alive. 

6. Communicate Your Wishes with Family

Perhaps the most overlooked but most important step is to talk to your family. Pre-planning isn’t just about paperwork; it’s about starting a conversation.

Let them know:

• That you’ve made arrangements

• Where to find your documents

• How you want to be remembered

These talks can bring peace of mind, reduce conflict, and make your loved ones feel supported, not surprised.

7. Store Documents in a Safe, Accessible Place

Create a secure, centralized folder with all your funeral documents and instructions. This might include:

• Copies of your will

• Funeral home contracts

• Pre-payment receipts

• Cemetery deeds

• Insurance policies

Make sure your appointed agent or executor knows where to find this folder.

Digital tip: You can also use cloud storage with password protection for easy access.

Final Thoughts: Peace of Mind for You and Your Loved Ones

Funeral pre-planning isn’t morbid, it’s a meaningful act of love and legacy. By making these decisions now, you spare your family from overwhelming choices during their time of grief and ensure your life is honored the way you envision.

At Memorial Tribute Legacy, we’re here to support you with compassion and clarity every step of the way.