Pre-Arrangement

Making provisions for one's death should not be considered "morbid" or fatalistic. That's why wills are made, inheritances arranged, estates planned. No less appropriate is it to pre-arrange for, and possibly pre-fund, funeral and other inevitable costs associated with death, such as cemetery or grave marker costs.

It is important to recognize that death often places unanticipated burdens on survivors. Without any advance guidance, the surviving family, spouse or children, may not know the right or "expected" thing to do. Making arrangements in advance may lessen survivors' burdens at a difficult time.

Nationally and in Minnesota pre-arranging funeral, most frequently with pre-payment of a portion or all of the costs, is a growing trend. At the same time, a pre-arranged funeral should not be foisted upon anyone - it's always a matter of personal choice.

Who do I contact?

Advice of a licensed funeral director is absolutely essential. No one else is equipped, by experience and training, to give you a thorough understanding of all facets of pre-arranging. Our funeral directors are well-versed in all types of funerals and know the laws regarding public assistance ("MN Medical Assistance") rules. As much or as little as you decide to pre-arrange is completely up to you. Many people select a specific casket, decide on the place of services, and make a record about any special music or other wishes regarding the actual services.

Should I involve my family?

Funerals are for the survivors. The funeral serves as on-going testimony that a life has been lived. It serves as a last act of recognition, honor, and heartfelt memories. Survivors have emotional needs that need to be served. Expressing grief is one of those needs. The advantage of involving family in pre-arranging also brings the formerly "taboo" subject of death into the open. It affords the family the opportunity to share their thoughts about funeral services.

Is there a charge for making pre-arrangements? What happens if I pre-pay?

No. We are happy to meet with you at any time regarding pre-arrangement, even if it is just to answer your questions, discuss the options, and thoroughly explain costs. Should you decide to pre-pay the services you desire, 100% of the funds, in accordance with Minnesota law, are placed in a bank trust, annuity, or paid-in-full life policy. This protects your assets should you ever move to another area, or if a funeral home ever were to close, the monies would still be available to provide servies at another mortuary.

What about going on "Medical Assistance"?

Many people wonder about what happens if they ever need to apply for "Medical Assistance" (MA) from their county for long-term nursing home care.

Minnesota law allows that funeral expenses may be pre-paid before a person qualifies for assistance. Such amounts can be considered "excluded" from assets when an application for assistance is made. There are specific forms that must be completed by the funeral director to designate the funds as "irrevocable", otherwise they could be required to be spent on nursing home care before qualifying for assistance.