If you have written a will (or even – if you haven’t), did you include any instructions about what will happen to your body after you die? Did you express any wish about either cremation or burial (or another option) for example? If not, this might be something worth considering since not having this information can cause upset and disputes between family members when they are trying to make a decision.
Knowing how and even where to lay you to rest will save any rows at an already emotional time. But since talking about death and what comes next isn’t something everyone is comfortable with. So writing the instructions; in your will or in a separate letter. Which then can be opened in the event of your death (which is kept with your will) can help immensely.
Your executor or administrator is ‘automatically’ responsible
It can come as a surprise to find that your next of kin doesn’t automatically get to choose where you are buried or cremated. That responsibility actually falls to your executors first, assuming you have a will. Without a will it will be the administrators who make the decision. If there is no one else, then it could even be the owner of the premises in which the person lived. Therfore perhaps your landlord could choose what happens to your body. Finally, the local authority may take responsibility for you. It will all depend on your personal circumstances when you died. If you write down what you want then there will be no confusion and no arguments. It can all just be dealt with peacefully.
We believe its always good to prepare for the future, and the same can be said for your funeral arrangements. It’s important to let people know these arrangements before you pass, leaving any guess work out.
Maybe burial or cremation, isn’t for you?
With the increasing popularity for different methods of being laid to rest, we compiled ‘6 alternatives to burial’. From Tree Planting, Space Burial, or Aquamation to name a few. Less traditional methods of burial are always an option, which should be discussed before your passing.
If you require any further help, advice or guidance – please call us on 0203 985 9554, or contact us.
