We all know we are going to pass on, the problem is we're not sure just when, if we did it would make our financial planning so much easier.

We have looked already at the document you should have for this eventuality, your Will. So we now look at how the inevitable cost of being laid to rest might be met and how as the cost of funerals spiral, it is making more and more sense to address the cost in advance.

At one time, our parents took out their penny policies to pay for their funeral. Then we found these policies had not kept pace with inflation, never mind the actual costs, so we reviewed our own insurances and took out whole of life insurance plans, usually for about £10.00 per month with cover for about £1,200 which we thought would meet most if not all of this onerous financial burden for our loved ones.

Unfortunately, in recent years even these plans have been made redundant with a simple cremation ceremony costing in the order of £2,500 to £3,000, it's a wonder any of us can afford to die! Whilst the option some have sought of putting savings aside in bank or building society accounts, has also been overtaken by the increase in costs.

So how do you guard against future increases, simply by as intimated, purchasing your funeral today with the guarantee that no matter how much costs increase in the future your loved ones will not be asked to pay anything more when your time arrives.    

Even for those who say the cost can come out of their estate, although we understand and appreciate this sentiment and there may well be more than sufficient assets to cover it. If you have read our Probate page, you will no doubt appreciate it could be your executors are unable to access funds within same for some little time, especially if your only asset is a property and this could mean their having to borrow to bury you. Also, whether it is as a result of the increases or just a sign of changing times, many funeral directors are now asking for up to a third of the cost to be paid before they will proceed with any arrangements.

All this worry and turmoil can so easily be averted with a pre-need plan. There are three plans ranging in cost from £1,895 to £2,395, each plan can be purchased outright or paid for monthly over any period up to ten years, although we would suggest that ten years is a bit long, due to the interest charges which may negate the very reason for taking the plan in the first place.  

Although the plans differ mainly in respect of the number of limousines, there is also variance in respect of the coffins and urns provided under each arrangement. However, should you wish to enhance any of the 'standard' provisions your wishes can be accommodated albeit there may be an appropriately enhanced cost.

Remember, cost aside, if your departure plans are important to you, it is also only via such an arrangement that you can state your exact requirements and be confident they will be adhered to.  

LifeGem. What is a LifeGem we hear you ask, almost everyone does!

Well, it certainly isn't to everyone's taste but if you desire a permanent personal memorial of your loved one, then a LifeGem, being that it is a certified high quality diamond created from the carbon within the ashes of your loved one could be just what you are looking for.

Why Choose A LifeGem Memorial Diamond?

If you desire an everlasting connection to the one you have lost, the LifeGem is right for you. Each LifeGem, as a celebration of life, tells a unique story and represents a new beginning. With the closeness offered only by a LifeGem, you will have your loved one with you and in your life at all times. And of course, as the LifeGem is a one-of-a-kind diamond, it will be a treasured heirloom in your family to be appreciated for generations to come. LifeGem is the most exclusive and exquisite memorial you could ever posses.

NB. LifeGems can also provide the same service for departed pets. 

Again, if you would like more information on any the above, please do not hesitate to contact us.