Speaking about planning a funeral as a family is something that is usually not done, especially while a person is still living. However, knowing what to do by planning before a loved one passes away can lead to less frustration and fighting in a time when everyone needs to be united as a family.
It can also be beneficial to make sure that your loved ones know what documents are needed to begin the claims process for various policies you might have. Here is what you need to know when it comes to funeral planning as a family.
The type of funeral to be carried out
It may be a sensitive topic for some to plan a funeral but understanding the process beforehand can help you and your loved ones be better prepared. Discussing burial options early can help you understand the costs that come with being buried, cremated, or using alternative burial methods. It can also help you find a funeral cover that will adequately cover you and your loved ones without having to deal with the stress of finding ways to give a loved one a dignified send off.
Understanding the costs of a funeral
Choosing a funeral home, the flowers, the casket, a tombstone, catering, and transport are just some of the costs to consider. Depending on the type of funeral that you have discussed having with loved ones, the cost could be anything between R10 000 - R86 000 or more. Having an idea of the costs by researching the cost of carrying out a funeral in South Africa can help you be better prepared and choose policies that are aligned with your needs.
Funeral cover
With so many options available when it comes to choosing a funeral policy in South Africa, it is crucial to find one that will match your needs. There are options to cover yourself or covering everyone in your family under one premium* in the form of a family funeral cover. Checking the benefits of your funeral cover will also give you a better understanding for you and your loved ones when it comes to knowing what you are covered for.
Having a will
While we have trusted loved ones we will expect to handle our affairs once we have died, it does not always guarantee that your last wishes will be followed to the 'T'. However, without a will in place, your assets will be handled by the state or a relative. There are cases where valuable investments and policy payouts from life insurance policies remain unclaimed due to a person not having listed a beneficiary or a will that will state the person or institution that needs to receive the payout. Having no will in place gives you no control over who ends up with your assets and how it gets divided.
