Funeral Planning--Everything You Need to Know about Funerals, Funeral Homes and Grief Support

Funeral planning is something most of us will have to do at one point in our lives, but how do you do it? Are you getting good value for your money? What do you really need?

Funeralplan.com is a free consumer information and education resource on funeral planning, financing funerals, funeral products and services, and grief support and counseling. You can also post free online obituaries and find out how to help your child handle grief.

Have questions? Ask the experts or browse the archives of past questions and answers. If you're looking for a funeral home, we can help you find a family-owned one in your area through the free funeral home locator.

You can also learn about pre-planning what's involved in donating a body to science, and find information on caskets, cremation urns, cemeteries, embalming, and other products and services.

Remember--You're the Boss!
There are two things to remember in planning a funeral. First, no one is going to charge you for asking questions. The second thing to remember is that you are in charge. (full article)

Cremation Urns
More and more people are choosing to be cremated, and there are even more choices for cremation urns than for caskets. Find out what your choices are and what each type consists of, as well as what contributes to the cost. (full article)

What to Do When a Relative Dies
This article describes key contacts you'll need to make as well as important documents to find when dealing with the death of a loved one. (full article)

Free Online Funeral Planning Guide
Use this free online tool to help make decisions and communicate your wishes to your family and funeral director. (use the preparation guide)

Family-Owned Funeral Homes--
What's So Great about Them?
Family-owned funeral homes can be a great way to handle your funeral care needs. Find out how they differ from the rest. (full article)

Consumer Satisfaction with Funeral Homes
The funeral service industry gets some bad press, but new research studies show this may not reflect an accurate picture. (full article)

Funeral Homes: Finding the Right One
There are many funeral homes, and finding the one that's right for you and your family can be duanting. Use our Funeral Home Locator Guide to find the local family-owned funeral home that is right for you.

Burial vs. Cremation
Why are more and more people choosing cremation? What are the differences between burial and cremation? Can I still have visitation and a service? Find the answer to these questions and more. (full article)

Funeral Homes Go Online to Help Families
Cutting edge technology has arrived in funeral homes around the country, making the funeral arrangement process easier and more comfortable for families. Larkin Memorial is one of the leaders. (full article)

Personalizing the Experience
It can and should be as unique as the life that is being celebrated. Don't feel that you have to have a cookie cutter type of service or that your ideas for a special ceremony are foolish. (full article)

Choosing a Casket
What are the different types of caskets? How do I know which one is right for me? What determines a casket's cost? What's the difference between 18 gauge steel and 20 gauge steel? What materials are available? What if I want to be cremated, but still want a visitation? The answer to these questions--and many more--are found here. (full article)

Featured Article: How to Write a Eulogy

The thought of public speaking throws many people into a panic. Add to that fear the common discomfort of discussing death, and it's easy to understand why the idea of delivering a eulogy can be disconcerting. If you've been asked to write a eulogy, take heart. This article will help you put your fears in perspective so you can deliver a loving eulogy.