Cross-Cultural Funeral Customs

Cross-Cultural Funeral Service Rituals

By LaVone V. Hazell, MS, FT, LFD For the past two decades, the traditional funeral rite has been in transition for various reasons: changes in social stratification due to a declining economy and shrinking resources; increased immigration to the United States; neo-local spread of the family to many geographic locations; increased demand for cremations; decline in religious practices and increased secular observances; and a shift from ancestral to contemporary funeral rites.


Funeral Trusts and Payable on Death Accounts

A trust is a good way to set aside money for your funeral costs. A Funeral Trust is created in connection with a contract for pre-arrangements with a funeral home or cemetery. That is when you are contracting in advance for funeral or burial services. Whereas a Payable on Death Account (POD) is one you […]



How to Claim Death Benefits

Common Sources of Benefits In addition to life insurance policies, death benefits may be available from a variety of sources. Funeral Directors can help gather the information needed to apply for the applicable death benefits. In most cases, you'll need a copy of the Death Certificate to file for benefits. Following are common sources of benefits and assistance:


Funerals 101: Everything You Need to Know

Guide to Funeral Products, Services, and Providers Here you'll find comprehensive, unbiased information about funerals. It's where you can learn what you need to know to make smart choices in planning funerals, purchasing funeral products, and supporting friends in grief.


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