Pre-Planning FAQs

Everything you need to know and want to ask about pre-planning.

You've taken an important step by choosing to pre-plan. Congrats. By taking steps to arrange these important plans now, you've taken a large burden off of your beloved family, providing them with greater peace of mind. You're relieving your family of the cost that can be associated with planning a funeral, allowing them to celebrate and honor your life. And finally, you're ensuring that every last detail is planned according to your own wishes and needs.

You might have some questions as you begin the path towards pre-planning. We're here to help answer them.

Here are some questions that often come up from others at the same stage:

Pre-planning versus pre-funding? I've heard both terms, what is the difference?

Pre-planning is making all of your arrangements ahead of time so that everything can be conducted according to your wishes, for peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. Pre-funding is taking care of all costs for your pre-planning, so that everything is taken care of for you and your family.

Can I move a previously planned arrangement?

Yes. If you choose to move your arrangement to another cemetery, we can help transfer your plans to any cemetery in the United States that accepts the contract. You should never have to feel stuck in your decisions.

Can I take care of the costs now?

Yes. You are welcome to take care of all costs now, so that later on, all your family has to do is to focus on and celebrate your life. When you choose to pre-fund your final arrangements, your money is put in a state-approved funding option until needed. After your funeral is paid for in full, you will never have to pay more for the guaranteed items you listed on your contract.

If I pre-plan with The Catholic Parish Cemeteries Association, what are my options if I change my mind later on?

When you pre-plan with The Catholic Parish Cemeteries Association, your plan will go where you go. No matter where you reside at the time of your passing, no matter what funeral home you choose to work with, your plan will be transferable to any funeral home in the United States that accepts the contract. Your peace of mind is of the utmost importance to us.

I want to approach my family and talk to them about my plans. Do you have suggestions for doing this in the best way possible?

You are truly helping your family and doing a great deed by taking care of planning something that is so personal and important to you. Remember to respect their feelings and emotions, as this can possibly be a difficult subject to broach with them. Assure them that you are making these plans because you love them and want them to feel free to celebrate life and heal together when the time comes. Find additional resources here.

What do I do when I have completed all my pre-planning? Is there anything else I should be aware of or need to do?

Relax and rest assured knowing that your wishes will be met, your needs have been taken care of and there's a capable team at The Catholic Parish Cemeteries Association that is always available to answer your questions or thoughts.

What is Pre-planning?

Pre-planning is much like it sounds, it is making the decisions of how you would like to be remembered. It allows you to make your wishes known to your loved ones and gives you the opportunity to create a unique celebration...just how you would have wanted it. Pre-planning is the next logical step in the planning process. Your loved ones will greatly appreciate you pre-planning as it alleviates questions like "I'm not sure what he would have wanted". However, knowing your choices still leaves a financial burden for those left behind. Pre-planning allows you to pay for your funeral expenses, saving loved ones from incurring those costs. There are several different options of pre-planning your funeral which our pre-arrangement specialists will guide you through.

I’ve heard about mausoleum entombment burials - what are the benefits?

CPCA offers families a choice of selecting crypt spaces located within a Community Mausoleum or the option of purchasing a private mausoleum that is custom built and designed by each individual family.

All of the CPCA Community Mausoleums have a religious theme to each building, are heated, and offer a serene and comfortable setting.

In addition to the crypt spaces, CPCA also offers a comprehensive line of bronze emblems and vases to adorn your crypt front.

Are there Urns for cremated remains?

Yes, we offer urns, designed for cremated remains. 

I’ve heard of Perpetual Care - what is it?

In short, Perpetual Care refers to the funds that keep the cemetery grounds beautiful and well-kept, ensuring that your loved ones will be maintained in keeping with the sacred nature of a Catholic cemetery.

We know that you may have other questions, so feel free to call us at anytime so that we can walk you through your options and help you create the best possible plan for you.

(412) 256-9370 or [email protected]