Planning Ahead

Important Disclaimer  We are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. The information on this page is based on public sources and government publications, but it may not be complete or up to date. Probate procedures can vary based on individual circumstances. Please consult a qualified attorney for legal guidance. Our number one recommendation is to hire an attorney. Our second recommendation is to consider hiring a professional fiduciary when needed.

Preparing for the future may not be easy to think about, but it is one of the most helpful things you can do for your family. Thoughtful planning can ease stress, avoid confusion, and even save money in the long run. Many families find that working with a qualified attorney brings clarity and confidence to the process.

Why Hiring a Lawyer Matters

Legal documents like wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives are often more effective and reliable when they are drafted with professional help. An experienced attorney can guide you through decisions, explain your options, and make sure everything is done correctly. Mistakes or unclear instructions can sometimes cause problems later, especially during probate. Getting sound legal advice now may prevent expensive complications for your family down the road.

Every state has different rules. A lawyer familiar with your state’s laws can tailor your plan to match your needs. They can also update documents after major life changes and ensure everything stays current.

The Value of Preplanning

Making decisions in advance gives you more control and helps your family feel supported. Even small steps can make a big difference. Preplanning often helps families avoid last-minute costs or rushed choices. Some common benefits include:

  • Knowing your wishes are clearly documented
  • Helping loved ones avoid court delays or disagreements
  • Having time to compare services and make thoughtful choices

When you plan ahead, your family is more likely to carry out your wishes with confidence.

Organizing Key Documents

As part of your planning, it helps to keep documents in a safe and accessible place. Common items to gather include:

  • Identification documents
  • Contact information for advisors or loved ones
  • Instructions or notes for funeral or memorial preferences
  • Copies of insurance, healthcare plans, or other essentials

You may also wish to share the location of these materials with someone you trust.

Funeral Planning in Advance

Deciding how you would like to be remembered is a deeply personal step. Whether you prefer a simple gathering or a more formal service, having a written plan can relieve your family from having to guess your preferences.

You can explore your ideas and record them using online planning tools. MemoriaSky’s Funeral Planning Guide is one great resource that helps you organize your thoughts in a structured, simple way. We are not affiliated with MemoriaSky. It is one of several available options that families use to prepare.

A Gift to Your Family

Planning ahead may feel like a big task, but each step is a gift to the people who care about you. With the support of a qualified attorney and the right tools, you can reduce worry, avoid surprises, and leave a clear plan that reflects your values.

Whether you are starting from scratch or reviewing what you already have, taking action now can make things easier later.

Take a Moment...

It is completely normal to feel unsure of what to do next. You do not have to solve everything today. A steady, simple step is enough.


Helpful Resources

Provided by:

Funeral Planning Checklist 

Funeral Planning Guide

Memoria Marketplace

Memoria Obituary Page

MemoriaSky.com and this website are not affiliated. Links are provided as a courtesy only.


Additional Tools and Support

How to Get Death Certificates Learn how many you may need and where to request them.

Choosing a Funeral Home Questions to ask and how to compare providers.

Closing Digital Accounts A simple guide for email, social media, and online services.

Securing the Home Calm steps to protect property and personal items.


Printable Checklists

First 24 Hours After a Death A short list you can keep on your phone or print.

Funeral Home Questions Helpful questions to bring to your first meeting.

Executor Starter Checklist Basic steps to begin settling an estate.


National Support Tools

Social Security Survivor Benefits How to report a death and request benefits.

VA Burial and Survivor Benefits Support for veterans and eligible family members.

FEMA Funeral Assistance Possible help for funeral costs during declared emergencies.

Hospice and Palliative Care Locator Find local grief and family support services.


Books and Guides

Executor and Estate Books Clear, simple guides for closing accounts and settling affairs.

Grief and Healing Books Gentle support for adults, teens, and children.

Funeral and Memorial Planning Books with ideas for meaningful and personal services. Visit ProbateBooks.com for more.


Spiritual and Cultural Support

Christian Grief Support Resources from church and faith communities.

Jewish Mourning Practices Shiva, Kaddish, and common traditions.

Muslim Janazah Guidance Prayer and preparation steps.

Hindu Funeral Traditions A simple overview of common rituals.

Buddhist Prospective on Loss Gentle teachings on acceptance and presence.

Humanist and Non-Religious Support Compassionate resources for secular families.


Tools for the Executor or Next of Kin

Executor Responsibilities An overview of what an executor usually does in the first days and weeks.

Understanding Probate A clear explanation of how probate works and why some estates need it.

What a Probate Bond Is How a bond protects the estate and when the court may require one.

Managing Property in the Home Simple steps for protecting valuables and involving family members.


Planning and Funeral Tools

Find a Funeral Home Directories and resources to compare providers near you.

Find a Cremation Provider Helpful national listings and guidance for comparing services.

Vital Records in Your State Where to request certified death certificates.

County Probate Court Finder A quick way to locate local probate courts in your area.


You Are Not Alone

Grief arrives in waves. Some moments may feel heavy, and others may feel calm. Both are normal. You do not have to move through this by yourself, and there is no schedule you must follow.

What Is a Death Doula Guide to Finding and Hiring One