Pre-Planning

Plan ahead.

Give your family clarity.

Pre-planning allows you to document your wishes, understand options and costs, and relieve your family from difficult decisions during a time of grief.

Private & respectful · No pressure · Clear next steps
Exterior of Billings Funeral Home

Why pre-plan

A simple plan now can make an enormous difference later.

Relieve burden

Remove uncertainty so loved ones aren't forced to make decisions under stress.

Honor your wishes

Document preferences—service details, music, readings, and more—at your pace.

Financial clarity

Understand costs and funding options, and decide what's best for your situation.

Process

A pre-planning meeting space at Billings Funeral Home

A respectful, unhurried process.

1) Meet

We'll answer questions and explain options clearly.

2) Choose

Make personal selections and discuss financial considerations.

3) Secure

We document your plan so your family has clear guidance later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Clear answers to common pre-planning questions.

What is funeral pre-planning?

Pre-planning is the process of documenting your funeral or memorial preferences in advance. It allows you to make thoughtful decisions about service details, burial or cremation choices, and financial considerations before they are needed.

What is the difference between pre-planning and pre-funding?

Pre-planning refers to recording your wishes. Pre-funding refers to setting aside funds to pay for those arrangements in advance. Many families begin with planning first and consider funding options later.

Is there any obligation or pressure to pre-fund?

No. Our first goal is clarity and documentation of your wishes. Funding options are discussed only if and when you would like to explore them.

Can I change my plan later?

Yes. Pre-arrangements can be updated as your preferences or circumstances change. We encourage periodic reviews to ensure everything still reflects your wishes.

What information will I need to bring?

Basic vital statistics, family information, and biographical details are helpful. If you don't have everything, that's perfectly fine. We can begin with what you know and complete the rest later.

How long does a pre-planning appointment take?

Most appointments take 45–90 minutes. Some prefer a shorter informational meeting, while others want to complete everything in one visit. We move at your pace.

Does pre-planning save money?

Pre-planning provides cost clarity. All of our services and merchandise can be locked in at current prices through funding arrangements. We will clearly explain what is guaranteed and what is not.

What if I move out of the area?

Pre-funded plans are transferable. If relocation is a concern, we can discuss options that provide flexibility.

How is my information stored and protected?

Your information is handled with confidentiality and stored securely. It is used solely for planning and communication related to your arrangements.

What happens when the time comes?

Your family contacts us, and we guide them through the next steps. Your documented wishes provide direction and remove uncertainty during a difficult time.

Forms

Request an appointment or receive helpful pre-planning information.

Appointment request

Send a request and we'll reach out to confirm a time that works for you.

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We'll contact you as soon as possible to confirm a time.

Get more information

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Before you meet

What you'll want to gather for pre-planning

You don't need everything to get started. This list simply helps you come prepared so we can make the most of our time together.

Helpful checklist

Vital statistics

  • Full legal name and preferred name
  • Date and place of birth
  • Home address, phone number, email
  • Marital status and spouse's name (if applicable)
  • Parents' names (including mother's maiden name if known)
  • Military service details (branch, dates, discharge papers if available)
  • Occupation and employer/industry

Relatives and key contacts

  • Spouse and children (names)
  • Siblings (names)
  • Primary next-of-kin contact information
  • Any special family situations we should be aware of

Biographical information for an obituary

  • Education (schools, degrees, years)
  • Work history and accomplishments
  • Military service or civic involvement
  • Organizations, churches, and community activities
  • Hobbies and interests
  • Names of survivors and those who preceded in death (if desired)
  • Preferred charities or memorial contribution ideas (optional)

If you prefer, you can simply meet with us first and we'll help you gather what's needed afterward.

Pre-Planning Advisor

Jeremy Sarber

Chaplain & Pre-Need Advisor

Contact
Jeremy Sarber
Clear answers · Private consultation · No pressure