There's been a lot of media coverage and discussion about pre-planning funeral services. If you're thinking about pre-planning your services, you may be wondering what should be included in your plan. While most funeral service directors can help you with much of the detail that's required, it's helpful to have a general idea of the fundamentals that you should include. Here are some of the things that you should be sure to put into your funeral pre-plan.

How You Wish To Be Remembered

One of the most important aspects of a funeral pre-plan is detailing how you wish to be remembered. You'll want to explain exactly what you want from your funeral service. Do you want to have viewing hours and an open casket, or would you prefer a closed-casket service? Alternatively, would you rather just be cremated?

If you have purchased a burial plot already, and have a headstone on order, you should include those details as well. Clearly define what type of memorial service you wish to have and any special details that are important to you as part of that service.

What Religious Aspects You Want Included

If you are devout in any particular religion, it's important that you include your religious preferences in your funeral plan. You may assume that your family will include your faith in your services, but that doesn't necessarily mean that it's actually the case. 

Any faith-based aspects that are important to you should be included in the plan that you establish for your funeral. Your funeral director can help you to determine what aspects are commonly integrated based on your faith, and may even be able to provide recommendations to complete your plan accordingly.

How The Service Will Be Paid For

The final aspect of your funeral plan should include the details of how your plan will be paid for. Whether you've established a pre-funeral savings fund, have a life insurance policy dedicated to your final expenses, or have pre-paid the costs to your funeral director, include the details in your plan so that you can be sure that your services will be paid in full as you've desired.

Pre-planning your funeral can help to ensure that your final services are handled precisely the way that you want them to be. If you want the peace of mind of knowing that you'll be laid to rest the way that you want to be, consider these tips and create a funeral plan that fits your personal preferences.