Get Funeral Planning Checklist

Filling out the Funeral Planning Checklist is a crucial step in organizing end-of-life arrangements. This guide will provide you with a clear, step-by-step approach to completing the checklist online, ensuring that you cover all necessary components with care and consideration.

Follow the steps to complete your Funeral Planning Checklist online.

1. Click ‘Get Form’ button to obtain the Funeral Planning Checklist and open it in the designated editor.
2. Begin by selecting a funeral home. It is vital to choose a professional you trust, considering factors such as reviews and cost.
3. Decide on burial or cremation. Be wary of unnecessary upsells like sealed caskets and vaults, which may not be required.
4. If opting for cremation, select an appropriate casket or container, considering the potential for significant price markups.
5. Draft an obituary that includes details for any memorial funds or charities you wish to include.
6. Notify close family and friends about the arrangements, ensuring they are informed and involved.
7. Gather essential information to complete the death certificate, including the deceased's Social Security Number, parents' names, date of birth, and work information.
8. Choose the location for the funeral and the type of service, whether it be a private viewing or a public visitation.
9. Select an officiant for the service and determine who will serve as pallbearers, typically not immediate family.
10. Decide on the attire for the deceased and consider cemetery regulations regarding jewelry.
11. Choose floral arrangements such as casket sprays, standing sprays, and any specialty pieces you wish to display.
12. Select a photograph for display or create a collage to celebrate the deceased's life.
13. Determine if any additional items, such as religious or military memorabilia, will be displayed during the service.
14. Choose the music for the service and designate individuals who will perform or play.
15. If there were favorite scriptures or literature, select these for reading during the service.
16. Designate someone to read the eulogy.
17. Select a guestbook for attendees to sign.
18. Decide if memorial cards are needed and who will be responsible for their creation, often a service offered by the funeral home.
19. Coordinate transportation for the deceased's body and arrangements for immediate family and pallbearers.
20. Choose a cemetery and decide on a burial plot, considering future arrangements alongside a spouse.
21. Select a grave marker but be cautious to shop around for the best pricing rather than feeling pressured by the cemetery.
22. Decide on any special gatherings, including location, time, and catering options.
23. Once all fields are complete, save your changes, download the form, print it, or share it as needed.

Complete your documents online today to ensure all arrangements are thoughtfully organized.