Blog | Allen-Hall Mortuary – Logan, UT

The Ultimate Guide to Pre-Planning Your Final Wishes

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 22:37:28 GMT

Discover the ultimate guide to pre-planning your final wishes. Learn step-by-step how to make legal, financial, and funeral arrangements in advance.

1. Understanding Pre-Planning

What is Pre-Planning?

Pre-planning is the intentional process of deciding in advance what will happen after you pass away — from the legal, medical, and financial arrangements to the details of your funeral or memorial service.

Instead of leaving these decisions to grieving loved ones, you create a clear, documented plan that can be followed without second-guessing.

Benefits of Pre-Planning

Emotional Relief for Family
Losing someone is emotionally overwhelming. Pre-planning eliminates the need for your family to make dozens of stressful decisions within days of your passing.
Financial Savings
Many funeral homes offer pre-payment options that lock in today’s prices, protecting you from inflation.
Control & Personalization
You decide how your life will be celebrated — from music and flowers to burial location and ceremony type.
Legal Clarity
Written instructions reduce the risk of family disputes or misunderstandings about your wishes.

2. Key Areas of Pre-Planning

Legal & Administrative Planning

Will or Trust – Outlines asset distribution and names an executor. A trust can help avoid probate and offer more control.
Advance Healthcare Directive – States your medical care preferences if you can’t speak for yourself.
Durable Power of Attorney – Authorizes someone to handle your financial and legal matters if you’re incapacitated.
Digital Account Access Plan – Includes login info for important online accounts (banking, social media, subscriptions).

Funeral & Memorial Arrangements

Burial vs. Cremation – Decide based on personal, cultural, or religious preferences.
Service Location – Could be at a funeral home, place of worship, outdoors, or at home.
Traditions & Customs – Incorporate religious rites, cultural practices, or family traditions.
Service Elements – Choose music, readings, and speakers that reflect your values and personality.
Flowers or Donations – Decide whether to have floral arrangements or direct donations to a cause.

Disposition of Remains

Burial – Choose a cemetery, type of plot, and headstone design. Decide on casket material, vault, and marker inscription.
Cremation – Select an urn, decide on final placement (cemetery, columbarium, home, scattering), or hybrid options (part burial, part scattering).

Personalization

Obituary Draft – Writing it in advance ensures accuracy and reflects your personality.
Photos & Life Story – Organize images and milestones for slideshows or memorial tables.
Mementos – Consider displaying hobbies, awards, or treasured possessions.
Service Theme – Examples: traditional religious burial, a celebration of life, a formal military ceremony, or a quiet candlelit vigil.

Financial Planning

Pre-Paying Expenses – Many funeral homes offer pre-need contracts to lock in rates.
Life Insurance – Can help cover final expenses and leave additional support for family.
Payment Plans – Break down costs into manageable monthly payments.
Proof of Payment – Store receipts and contracts where your executor can easily find them.

3. Step-by-Step Pre-Planning Process

Step 1 – Clarify Your Priorities

Think about what matters most: honoring tradition, environmental responsibility, or keeping costs low.
Write a “Values Statement” summarizing your approach to end-of-life planning.

Step 2 – Research Options

Compare service packages from your funeral home of choice.
Ask about customizable service options and pre-payment options.
Visit cemeteries in person to compare locations, pricing, and maintenance.

Step 3 – Make Legal Arrangements

Work with an attorney to update your will/trust and health directives.
Choose a healthcare proxy who will advocate for your wishes.
Put funeral preferences into a legally recognized document if available in your state.

Step 4 – Choose Service Details

Select readings, music, and officiants that reflect your beliefs and personality.
Decide on visual elements like color themes, floral designs, or tribute displays.
Make backup choices in case certain items or people are unavailable.

Step 5 – Arrange Payment

If pre-paying, verify what’s included and what isn’t (e.g., future inflation costs, transportation fees).
Make sure the plan is portable if you move.
Decide on pre-payment plan (e.g., pay in full vs. monthly payments)

Step 6 – Document & Store Plans

Store documents in a fireproof safe or with your attorney.
Give a copy to your executor, healthcare proxy, and a close family member.
Avoid keeping your only copy in a bank safe deposit box (it may be inaccessible immediately after death).

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Communicating Your Plan – If nobody knows about it, it can’t be followed.
Failing to Update – Plans should reflect changes in relationships, location, or personal beliefs.
Overlooking Small Details – Like obituary photo choice, pallbearers, or song lyrics.

5. Special Considerations

Veterans – May qualify for burial flag, military honors at graveside, etc.
Religious Requirements – Some faiths have strict timeframes or rituals (e.g., Jewish burials often within 24 hours).

6. Checklists

Essential Documents Checklist

Will or trust.
Advance healthcare directive.
Durable power of attorney.
Funeral preference statement.
Life insurance policy.
Digital account list and passwords.

Funeral Arrangement Checklist

Type of service and location.
Burial or cremation decision.
Casket/urn choice.
Floral or charitable donation preference.
Service participants (officiant, speakers, musicians).
Visual elements (photos, videos, displays).

7. Conversation Starters

“I don’t want you to worry about making decisions when the time comes — let’s make them now together.”
“Here’s what I’d like for my service. It’s important to me that it reflects my life and values.”
“Have you thought about what you’d like for your own arrangements? We could do this planning together.”

8. Updating Your Plan

Review after major life events (marriage, divorce, children, relocation).
Revisit financial arrangements every few years to ensure funding is adequate.
Update contact info for key individuals involved in carrying out your wishes.

9. Final Words

Pre-planning is not just about death — it’s about love, protection, and peace of mind for those you care about most. By taking the time to make these decisions now, you ensure that your family will be supported and your life will be honored exactly as you envision.

If you’ve been considering pre-planning your final wishes, there’s no better time to start than now. At Allen-Hall Mortuary , our caring and knowledgeable team is here to answer your questions, walk you through your options, and help you create a plan that reflects your values and brings peace of mind to you and your loved ones. Call/Text 435-881-8874 today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step toward ensuring your wishes are honored exactly as you envision.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Handling a Loved One’s Affairs After Death

allenobits@yahoo.com (Allen Mortuaries Admin) — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 15:58:39 GMT

Losing a loved one is an emotionally overwhelming experience, and handling their affairs can feel like an insurmountable task. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the necessary steps, providing clarity and support during a difficult time.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Loved One Passes

1. Obtain a Legal Pronouncement of Death

A legal pronouncement of death is required for obtaining a death certificate. If your loved one passed away in a hospital or nursing home, the staff will handle this. If they passed at home, call 911 so emergency responders can confirm the death.

2. Notify Family and Close Friends

Begin by informing immediate family members, followed by close friends and relatives. Consider assigning someone to help you with these notifications to ease the burden.

3. Secure Any Dependents or Pets

If the deceased had dependents or pets, ensure they are cared for immediately. Arrange temporary or permanent guardianship as needed.

4. Protect the Home and Belongings

Lock the home and secure any valuables to prevent theft or unauthorized access. If necessary, inform a trusted neighbor or family member to check on the property.

Gather Important Documents

5. Obtain the Death Certificate

You will need multiple copies (usually 10-15) of the death certificate for legal and financial processes. The funeral home can typically assist with obtaining these.

6. Locate the Will and Estate Plan

Find the deceased’s will, trust documents, or any estate planning paperwork. These documents will outline how their assets should be handled and who is responsible for managing them.

7. Identify Financial Documents

Collect important financial documents such as:

Bank account statements
Investment accounts
Retirement plans (401k, IRA, pensions)
Life insurance policies
Property deeds and mortgage information
Tax returns

Handle Funeral and Burial Arrangements

8. Check for Pre-Planned Funeral Arrangements

Some individuals pre-plan their funeral and may have paid for services in advance. Look for documentation regarding their wishes or prepaid funeral plans.

9. Plan the Funeral or Memorial Service

If no arrangements were pre-made, work with a funeral home to plan the service. Key considerations include:

Burial or cremation preferences
Location and date of service
Notifying friends and family
Arranging clergy or speakers
Choosing flowers, music, and memorial materials

10. Publish an Obituary

Consider writing and publishing an obituary in a local newspaper or online memorial website to inform the community.

Manage Legal and Financial Affairs

11. Notify Social Security and Other Benefits Providers

If the deceased was receiving Social Security benefits, contact the Social Security Administration to report their passing. If they had a pension or veteran’s benefits, notify the respective agencies as well.

12. Contact Banks and Financial Institutions

Close or transfer bank accounts and notify credit card companies. Provide the death certificate and proof of executorship if required.

13. File for Life Insurance Claims

If the deceased had life insurance, contact the provider to file a claim. You will likely need a death certificate and proof of beneficiary status.

14. Settle Debts and Cancel Unnecessary Accounts

Pay off outstanding debts if the estate has enough funds.
Cancel subscriptions, memberships, and utility services.
Notify credit bureaus to prevent identity theft.

15. Transfer Property and Assets

Work with an estate attorney to transfer property titles, distribute assets per the will, and ensure legal compliance with estate laws.

Handle Emotional and Long-Term Considerations

16. Seek Grief Support

Losing a loved one is challenging, and grief can be overwhelming. Consider support groups, counseling, or speaking with close friends and family members.

17. Organize Personal Belongings

Take your time going through the deceased's personal belongings. You may choose to:

Keep sentimental items
Donate or sell possessions
Create a memory box or tribute

18. Finalize Estate and Legal Matters

Once debts are settled and assets distributed, finalize any remaining estate matters. This includes filing the final tax return and officially closing the estate.

Final Thoughts

Handling a loved one’s affairs after their passing is a complex and emotional process. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure that legal, financial, and personal matters are properly addressed. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help from an attorney, financial advisor, or grief counselor to support you during this time.

For more guidance on funeral planning and estate management, contact your local funeral home or legal professional. If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with others who may need assistance.

The Importance of Having a Memorial Site for Family to Visit

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 22:11:16 GMT

Memorial sites serve as more than just final resting places; they provide families with a tangible connection to their loved ones and play a crucial role in preserving family history. Whether it is a cemetery grave, a dedicated memorial plaque, or another type of remembrance site, having a physical location for family members to visit holds deep emotional, cultural, and historical significance.

1. A Place for Reflection and Healing

One of the most profound benefits of a memorial site is its role in the grieving process. For many, visiting a loved one’s resting place provides comfort, allowing for private moments of reflection, remembrance, and healing. The ability to sit by a gravesite, leave flowers, or simply stand in quiet contemplation offers a tangible way to honor and maintain a connection with the deceased.

2. Strengthening Family Bonds and Traditions

Memorial sites serve as gathering places where families can come together to remember their ancestors. Many families make it a tradition to visit gravesites on birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays. These visits create opportunities for storytelling and sharing memories, fostering stronger family ties and keeping the legacy of the deceased alive for future generations.

3. Preserving Family History

Gravestones and memorials often contain valuable genealogical information, including birth and death dates, names, and family connections. These details serve as critical records for those researching their ancestry. In a world where digital records can be lost or altered, physical memorials provide a lasting and reliable source of historical documentation.

4. Cultural and Religious Significance

Across various cultures and religions, memorial sites are seen as sacred spaces that honor the deceased and reflect a family's heritage. In many traditions, visiting a loved one’s grave is a meaningful ritual that strengthens spiritual connections and maintains ancestral traditions. By preserving these sites, families ensure that cultural and religious practices continue to be observed and passed down through generations.

5. A Legacy for Future Generations

Memorial sites serve as historical markers, giving future generations a place to learn about their roots. Children and grandchildren who visit these sites develop a sense of belonging and appreciation for their family’s past. This continuity strengthens identity and fosters a deeper understanding of one’s lineage.

Conclusion

Having a memorial site for loved ones is an invaluable tradition that provides comfort, strengthens family bonds, preserves history, and honors cultural heritage. These sites offer a sacred space for reflection and remembrance, ensuring that the stories and legacies of those who came before us are never forgotten. Whether through cemeteries, monuments, or dedicated memorials, maintaining a physical connection to our ancestors is a powerful way to keep their memory alive for generations to come.

How To Dedicate a Grave

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 17:52:10 GMT

Dedicating a grave is not an every day occurence. In fact, most people have never dedicated a grave or will only do it once or twice in their lifetime. This short post is to help you know how to dedicate a grave should you ever have to perform this ordinance.

Authorization for performing this ordinance is granted by a priesthood leader possessing the appropriate keys or operating under the guidance of someone holding those keys.

The individual dedicating a grave is required to hold the Melchizedek Priesthood and receive authorization from the overseeing priesthood officer conducting the service. The process involves:

Addressing Heavenly Father.
Affirming that the action is carried out under the authority of the Melchizedek Priesthood.
Dedication and consecration of the burial plot as the final resting place for the deceased.
Offering a prayer requesting the sanctification and protection of the location until the Resurrection, where applicable.
Seeking the Lord's comfort for the grieving family and expressing sentiments guided by the Spirit.
Concluding the dedication in the name of Jesus Christ.

Alternatively, at the family's preference, a graveside prayer may be substituted for a dedicatory prayer.

In cases where a Church member's body undergoes cremation, the presiding officer is empowered to exercise judgment in deciding whether to dedicate the location where the ashes are preserved. Consideration is given to the family's wishes, local customs, and legal requirements. If dedication is chosen, the priesthood holder may tailor the instructions to align with those for dedicating a grave.

5 Important Reasons to Preplan Your Final Wishes

allenobits@yahoo.com (Allen Mortuaries Admin) — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 21:11:08 GMT

There are many reasons to pre-planning your final wishes – whether that’s a traditional funeral service or cremation. The following is a list of some of the benefits of planning ahead and why you should consider making your final wishes ahead of time.

1. Reduce Stress for Your Family

Losing a loved one is an emotionally challenging experience that can leave family members overwhelmed with grief. In such difficult times, planning a funeral can add an additional burden, both emotionally and financially.

However, by preplanning your final wishes, you can significantly alleviate the stress your family may face after your passing. The more of your final wishes that are planned in advance, the easier it will be for your family to carry out your wishes.

2. Help Prevent Family Conflict

Preplanning helps prevent potential family conflicts that may arise when there is uncertainty about your final wishes. Without clear guidance, loved ones may find themselves disagreeing on the best way to honor your memory, leading to unnecessary tensions during an already challenging time. Even small decisions can become points of contention. By documenting your preferences ahead of time, you minimize the likelihood of disputes and give your family the gift of unity during their grief.

3. Help Ensure Your Wishes Are Met

Beyond avoiding conflicts, preplanning your final wishes ensures that your wishes are met, adding a personalized touch to the event. This personalized approach can provide comfort and reassurance during your final days, knowing that your life will be celebrated the way you desire.

4. You’ll Save Money

Preplanning your funeral can lead to substantial financial savings by locking in at today’s prices. This will bring you and family members peace of mind, not having to worry about the cost of services and merchandise going up over time. Allen Mortuaries offers an interest-free payment plan option that makes things more affordable, saving families up to thousands of dollars.

5. You Can Enjoy Life More

When you pre-plan you can enjoy your life more knowing that your final wishes are taken care of. Knowing that everything has been planned and organized gives you a great sense of relief. It also provides a lot of relief to your spouse, children, and other loved ones.

When you are ready to begin the process of planning ahead, or simply want to learn more, you can reach out to us by calling 435-752-3245 or texting 435-881-8874 .

8 Ways To Cope With Grief During The Holidays

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 22:58:00 GMT

Many families and friends who have lost loved ones this year or in previous years wish they could simply press pause on the grieving process during the holiday season. Have you caught yourself dreading the holidays knowing the weeks ahead will potentially be an emotionally draining time? Grief is unique to everyone and the way in which we cope with it will vary from person to person. Accepting loss becomes easier over time but it is something we will carry with us forever. Grief ebbs and flows, much like ocean waves and all we can do is learn to swim.

Below is a list of 8 ways to cope with grief during the holidays.

1. Set Boundaries with Holiday Events

Don’t feel obligated to participate in every event. Only do what you feel comfortable with; even if you are feeling pressured.

You may want to go to a family gathering or holiday party. But remember, you do not have to stay the entire time. It is also okay to opt-out of certain things altogether. You need to identify and find a balance that works for you.

2. Pay Attention To Your Grief Emotions

Grief is often magnified during the holidays. It typically doesn’t take a back seat during the holidays. Your feelings should be acknowledged rather than avoided.

You can experience both positive and negative feelings, which is totally normal – these feelings can coexist. You’re allowed to enjoy the holidays and miss someone at the same time.

3. Plan Ahead to Fill Empty Holiday Roles

With the loss of a loved one, certain roles will become vacant. Plan ahead and determine who will fill those vacated roles (e.g., Grandpa always dressed as Santa or Mom always decorated the house for Christmas). Making sure that someone carries out those roles can help avoid unnecessary moments of grief and assist in making your holidays more enjoyable and fluid.

4. Honor Old Traditions & Honor Memories

Another way to help cope with grief during the holidays is to continue to carry out traditions that existed in order to celebrate and honor your loved ones that are no longer present. This helps remind us of our loved ones and keep their memory present.

5. Create New Traditions

Grieving individuals can find healing through creating new traditions. This doesn’t mean that you are blocking out old memories. Your loved ones want you to enjoy the holidays. If any feelings of guilt arise in the process, remember to acknowledge, validate, and then challenge these feelings.

6. Identify Grief Coping Skills

Before the holiday season begins, it might be helpful to create a list of coping skills that you can use whether you are at a social function or at home. Having a list can be beneficial for when you’re unexpectedly hit with grief. Coping skills can include things like: taking a walk, listening to music, deep breathing, exercising, saying positive affirmations, journaling, etc.

7. Volunteer/Do Something Charitable

Evidence shows that helping and serving others can also benefit our own mental health and wellbeing. Being charitable can help reduce stress, brighten our mood, and increase our self-esteem and happiness. Volunteering doesn’t require us to spend a lot of time or money. Some examples of serving others include:

Smile
Open the Door for Someone
Buy Someone Lunch or Invite Them Over for Dinner
Volunteer in Your Community
Pick Up Garbage
Give Away Things You No Longer Need
Compliment Someone
Donate Blood

8. Ask For Help When Struggling with Grief

Remember to seek support from family, friends, coworkers, and professionals if needed. It’s important to recognize when you need help. It’s equally important to seek services from a therapist or psychologist when needed. Holidays can stir up complicated emotions.

Conclusion

The holiday season can not always be as ‘merry and bright’ as we once remember but know that with time it gets better. Having unpleasant feelings is normal but don’t let it hinder you from enjoying your time with loved ones. Take it one step at a time. There is hope for a brighter day and it’s coming quicker than you think. Happy Holidays.

For those of you needing help coping with the loss of a loved one, please don’t hesitate to reach out to any one of our staff at Allen Mortuaries. We can help you or put you in touch with a professional therapist within our trusted network. Allen Mortuaries was voted best funeral home in Logan, UT and Cache Valley.

The post 8 Ways To Cope With Grief During The Holidays appeared first on Blog | Allen-Hall Mortuary - Logan, UT .

What To Do When Someone Dies: Checklist

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 21:15:00 GMT

The following checklist is provided, to give you an idea of the details that need to be resolved after a loved one has died. This list is by no means exhaustive and should no take the place of consulting with legal and financial professionals.

What To Do Immediately After Someone Dies

Get a Legal Pronouncement of Death

If someone dies under hospice care – When someone passes away, contact the Hospice group that is taking care of your loved one. Then call the funeral home when you are ready for them to come.
If someone dies at a care facility (hospital, nursing home, assisted living, etc. ) – The staff at the care facility will ask you which mortuary that you prefer and they will handle the arrangements of contacting the funeral home.
If someone dies unattended at home, work, vehicle, etc. – If someone passes away unattended (meaning no one was around when they passed away), or the death was an accident, or the death was a suicide, then call the polica immediately and they will handle the arrangements of contacting the funeral home.

Notify Family and Close Friends

Decide what is the best way to notify close friends and family that your loved one has passed away. Every family operates differently so there is no right or wrong way on how to best notify your family – whether it’s in person, through a call or text, etc.

Make Arrangements With Funeral Home

Call the funeral home when you are ready for them to pickup your loved one and take them under their care.
Schedule a time and day to come into the funeral home to make burial or cremation arrangments. A funeral director can help facilitate all the details that go into planning services for your loved one.

What To Do Within A Few Weeks After Someone Dies

Headstone/Monument

If your loved one is being buried, and doesn’t already have a headstone in place, call a headstone provider to help you design the perfect monument to honor your loved one.

Government Benefits

Social Security – Call the Social Security Administration at (800) 772-1213 or Ogden at (877) 378-9082 to transfer, terminate, or request benefits.
Veterans Administration – Claim forms can be requested and completed at the funeral home, or at any VA Hospital or clinic. Questions can be directed to the Veterans Administration at (800) 827-1000 or (801) 582-1565.

Financial Matters

Bank Accounts – Change all bank accounts and remove the deceased’s name from those accounts. You will need a certified copy of the death certificate.
Outstanding Loans – Contact any financial institution where the deceased had a loan and inform them of the death. They will be able to inform you if the loan was covered by a credit life insurance policy and if so, what is required to file the claim. A death certificate is often required.
Outstanding Bills – Gather all outstanding bills together and make sure you are aware of all credit obligations of the deceased.
Credit Cards – Contact credit card companies and notify them of the death. Some credit cards and charge accounts include a life insurance policy with them. Verify needed documentation to terminate or transfer the account to the survifor’s name. They may require a certified copy of the death certificate.
Credit Bureau – Contact your credit bureau. Ask for assistance to transfer your spouse’s credit into your name. They may also be able to assist you in determining any outstanding obligations of the deceased.
Safety Deposit Box – A safety deposit box, held jointly or in the deceased’s sole name, will be sealed until a county or state official can take inventory. The bank must know the death date, interest of person making inquiry, whether the key is available and whether the box was rented in the deceased’s sole name or jointly with others.
Income Tax – You may need to keep additional certified copies of the death certificate to send with your income tax returns.

Insurance & Pensions

Life Insurance – Contact all life insurance companies with whom the deceased had policies. Request a claim form or ask the local insurance agent for help. Send in the claim form, policy and certified copy of the death certificate. When making your claim, ask for the refund of any unused portion of the premium.
Health Insurance – Contact all health insurance companies to notify them of the death and stop coverage on the deceased.
Insurance Review – Review your own insurance needs. Often, these needs change after the death of a family member or loved one. Good organization of your own insurance information can aid survivors at the time this information is needed.
Pensions & Retirement Funds – Contact all sources of retirement funds the deceased was receiving and apply for any benefits that are due. You may need a certified copy of the death certificate.

Note – If the company requests a certified copy of the death certificate, but they are not providing you with a benefit, allow the company to pay for their own certified copy. For example, a life insurance company will pay the claim for life insurance, so you need to provide them with a certified copy of the death certificate. A health insurance company, on the other hand, just needs to stop coverage – allow them to provide their own certified copy of the death certificate if they require one.

Stocks, Bonds, IRAs, 401Ks

Savings Bonds – A single ownership bonds is part of the estate and will be paid, or re-issued to a qualified person. A Beneficiary Bond (one owner, payable on death to a beneficiary) becomes the property of the beneficiary. If the beneficiary dies first, no action is required unless a new beneficiary or co-owner is added. Proof of death is required for redemption or re-issue. The survivor becomes the owner of the Ownership Bond (two names on bond); a beneficiary or co-owner may be added. An attorney or banker should be consulted.
Stocks – Stocks in the deceased’s sole name require probate actions. Stocks owned jointly, may be transferred to the surviving owner by the presentation of a certified copy of the death certificate, to each company in which stock is jointly owned. A broker or banker can assist you.
Qualified Accounts – IRAs & 401Ks are qualified accounts that have tax consequences based on how you inherit them. The taxes owed can differ based on how fast you decide to distribute the funds.

Property

Real Estate Deeds – Change the deed on your property and remove the deceased’s name from the deed. This is done at the county seat where the property is located. Real estate owned jointly by the husband and wife, is automatically transferred to the survivor, but a certified copy of the death certificate along with an Affidavit of Death, should be filed with county authorities in connection with the real estate deed. Real estate owned solely by the deceased, or as tenant in common, will need to be probated whether or not there is a will. Estate and gift taxes should be thoroughly checked by an attorney.
Titles & Registration – Change titles and registrations of your vehicles. This is done at the county vehicle registration division. This includes cars, trucks, trailers, motor homes, mobile homes, etc. You may typically use a photocopy of the death certificate for this.
Utilities – Change all utilities from the deceased’s name. You may want to place utilities in joint accounts with another family member, to help in processing future estates. Check with landlords and inform them of the tenant’s death.

The post What To Do When Someone Dies: Checklist appeared first on Blog | Allen-Hall Mortuary - Logan, UT .

Funeral & Graveside Services During COVID-19 Pandemic

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 15:46:00 GMT

The health and safety of our families, guests, and employees is our top priority. With respect to the federal and local governments recommendations, we are still able to host visitations, gatherings, funerals, and memorials up to 10 people.

While we are still able to serve our community, we will discuss all available options with our families and collectively decide the best and most safe option. We are able to make arrangements or answer any questions via phone and/or video (Zoom, FaceTime, Skype, etc) AND have the capability to livestream, and record (audio/video) any service held in our chapel as well as graveside services.

We want to assure you that our team is taking proactive measures to help prevent the spread of any potential illness. We are closely monitoring the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organization’s statements, along with Utah Department of Health, National Funeral Directors Association, Utah Funeral Directors Association, and the Bear River Health Department regarding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and following guidelines from these agencies and our local health departments.

We use cleaning and disinfecting protocols to clean our chapel, visitation rooms, offices, lounge, and restrooms before and after each service; with particular attention paid to high touch items like knobs, faucets, chairs and other communal areas.
Proper and frequent hand washing is vital to help combat the spread of viruses. Our teams are reminded multiple times a day that cleanliness starts with this simple act.
Additional hand sanitizer has been placed at the register book area, and any of our meeting/arrangement rooms.
Employees who exhibit cold or flu-like symptoms have been instructed to stay home from work.
In an effort to minimize direct contact, we ask that you consider avoiding shaking hands or physical contact with the members of the family or other guests.

Direct Eye Contact, Loving Words, and a Warm Smile can be as meaningful to the families as a traditional handshake or hug, especially during these difficult times.

We request that guests who are experiencing any cold or flu-like symptoms including fever, cough and shortness of breath or have been in contact with or have recently traveled to any of the affected countries refrain from visiting the funeral home at this time.
We have the ability to record (audio & video) and livestream any funeral service in our chapel for those who wish to stay home.
For those who refrain from coming for any services you are welcome to leave messages for the family on our website – www.allenmortuaries.com

If you have any questions about the funeral home operations, please feel free to contact us by email: alleobits@yahoo.com, or calling: (435) 752-3245

Advanced Funeral Planning

For those wishing to pre-plan their funeral arrangements, we are still able to meet with you in person or via phone or video. To make an appointment or to receive a FREE pre-planning funeral resource guide, text/call (435) 881-8874.

The post Funeral & Graveside Services During COVID-19 Pandemic appeared first on Blog | Allen-Hall Mortuary - Logan, UT .

Medicaid Spend Down Strategies

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 18:01:00 GMT

You’ve most likely heard of Medicaid. But how familiar with it are you?

Medicaid is the nation’s health insurance program. Most people will qualify for Medicaid based on work history. Surprisingly, a lot of wealthy people can qualify as well.

The purpose of Medicaid is to help people with healthcare needs who can’t otherwise afford healthcare coverage. It is estimated that around 72.4 million people were enrolled in Medicaid as of April 2019, which makes it the largest source of health coverage in the United States.

In order to be eligible for Medicaid, you must first qualify. Your income level can’t exceed a certain level and your assets needs to be below a certain monetary value. These thresholds vary from state to state but usually your countable assets cannot exceed $3,000 for married couples and $2,000 if you’re single.

If your assets exceed the limits, you can still qualify for Medicaid. You can do what many Americans do and spend down some of your assets each month.

What are Countable and Non-Countable Assets?

There are two types of assets Medicaid looks at. They are countable assets and non-countable assets.

Countable assets are assets that Medicaid counts toward the countable asset limit set by your state. These types of assets include:

Investments like stocks, bonds, CDs, mutual funds, etc.
Cash
Bank accounts – savings or checking accounts
Retirement accounts
Property other than your primary house

Non-countable assets are assets that are exempt from your Medicaid asset limit. These types of assets include:

Pre-paid funeral expenses
Primary vehicle (only one)
Primary house – verify with your state on rules regarding your house
Term life insurance
Life insurance policy that has a $1,500 or less cash value
Wedding or engagement rings, jewelry, and family heirlooms
Home appliances, furnishings, and other personal items

Medicaid Spend Down Strategies

Now that you know which assets are countable and non-countable, you will need to figure out how much to spend down in order to qualify for Medicaid. Be sure to research the spend down limit for the specific state you live in.

Regardless of the state you live in, the spend down strategies are the same. Let’s look at a few ideas:

Update Your House

Since your primary house is a non-countable asset, a good way to spend down is to invest in your house. There are many investments you can make to your house. Some include:

Replace the roof
Buy new furnishings and décor
Remodel the kitchen
Resurface the deck
Build a wheelchair ramp
New paint job

The investments you can make to your home are countless.

Pay Off Debt

Whether you pay off debt or pay down debt, this is a good option for seniors going into retirement – or anyone for that matter. More than ever Americans are going into retirement with more debt than ever before. It’s never a bad idea to decrease your debt exposure.

Car Repairs

Does your car need repairs or maintenance? Now is a good time to get it fixed or even sell it and buy a new one. You’re allowed one car so take advantage.

Pre-paid Funeral Expenses

Most of us don’t know when we will die but eventually it will happen and eventually you will have to pay for your funeral expenses. There are many benefits to pre-paying for your funeral or cremation services. Some of these include:

Relieve your family members of the stresses and difficulties that come with planning a funeral during a period of grieving
Lock in at today’s prices. Like everything else, the costs of funerals and cremations continue to rise. Pre-paying allows you to avoid price increases.
Peace of mind. Planning ahead gives you peace of mind knowing everything is taken care of.

Start pre-planning today by clicking here .

Uncovered Medical Expenses

Eyeglasses, hearing aids, prosthetic devices, dentures, surgical supplies, and contacts also count as long as these items are not covered by insurance.

Cancel Life Insurance Policies

You are allowed no more that $1,500 in the cash value of your life insurance policies. So anything above that threshold might make sense to cancel. If you decrease or cancel the policy, the money is returned to the policyholder in which case you’d most likely need to spend down that payout. Putting that money into a pre-paid funeral plan becomes an attractive option.

The post Medicaid Spend Down Strategies appeared first on Blog | Allen-Hall Mortuary - Logan, UT .

Veterans Benefits

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 17:58:00 GMT

Military personnel or honorably discharged veterans are entitled to benefits. The following benefits may be available:

Death pension to the widow and minor children
Reimbursement of part of the funeral expense to a funeral home or person who paid the bill
Burial in National cemeteries
Burial flag and grave markers

Wartime Veterans and their surviving spouses age 65 or older with limited income and assets may qualify for a pension. For qualifying Veterans without a spouse, the 2016 Maximum Annual Pension rate was $12,907 and $16,902 with a spouse. For Veterans qualifying for Aid and Attendance benefit (see below), the maximum amount in 2016 was as high as $25,525. The 2016 survivor maximum pension rates started at $8,656 for the standard pension and $13,836 for the Aid and Attendance amount.

Veterans and their survivors requiring assisted living, are housebound or living in a nursing home may also qualify for a little know Aid and Attendance benefit in addition to a pension.

To qualify for Aid and Attendance, there are asset and income limits just like the pension requirements as well as physical need requirements.

Documents required for claiming veterans benefits are:

Itemized receipted funeral bill
Veteran’s discharged papers (Form DD-214)
Certified copy of the death certificate
Marriage certificate
Birth certificates of minor children

Further documentation will be needed if filing for Veterans pension or Survivor’s pension.

The post Veterans Benefits appeared first on Blog | Allen-Hall Mortuary - Logan, UT .

What To Do When Someone Dies

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 23:57:00 GMT

If Someone Dies Under Hospice Care – When someone passes away, contact the Hospice group that is taking care of your loved one. Then call the mortuary when you are ready for us to come.

If Someone Dies at a Care Facility (hospital, nursing home, assisted living, etc.) – The staff at the care facility will ask you which mortuary that you prefer and they will handle the arrangements of contacting the funeral home.

If Someone Dies Unattended at Home, Work, Vehicle, etc. – If someone passes away unattended (meaning no one was around when they passed away), or the death was an accident, or the death was a suicide, then call the police immediately and they will handle the arrangements of contacting the mortuary when they are ready for us to come.

Was There a Pre-Arranged Plan in Place – If you do not know whether the deceased had made and paid in advance for funeral and burial arrangements, call local and nearby funeral homes and ask if they have any record of such arrangements. Be sure to examine all papers of the deceased and look for funeral and burial contracts. Neglecting to check out the possibility of such arrangements, could result in unnecessary expenditure for survivors.

Was The Deceased a Veteran – The spouse of a veteran, or a dependent child of a veteran, check immediately after the death with the nearest Veterans Affairs office, to determine (if you don’t know already) whether the deceased is eligible for burial in a national cemetery. Check also on what payments are available for funeral and burial expenses. In addition, ask if a grave marker or headstone is provided. Generally, a survivor is eligible to receive an American flag to use in the funeral and to keep afterwards. If you are the surviving spouse, or a dependent child of the veteran, ask about survivor benefits.

Social Security – If the deceased was a participant in the Social Security Systems, contact your nearest Social Security office as soon as possible after the death and apply for any benefits that might be payable to eligible survivors. Also, apply for the lump-sum death benefit.

Life Insurance – Contact all life insurance companies with which the deceased had policies and file claims for payment.

Death Benefits – Collect from insurers any funeral/burial/death benefits payable to survivors.

Work Benefits – Check with the deceased’s present and all previous employers to determine what benefits, if any, might be payable to survivors. Such benefits might include life insurance, accidental death insurance, pension benefits and payments under Workers Compensation Insurance. Also, be sure to collect pay for any vacation and applicable sick leave accumulated but not taken by the deceased.

Labor Union – Contact the deceased’s employee’s labor union and collect any death or survivor benefits due. For example, ask whether the labor union provides any financial assistance with funeral or burial expenses for the deceased, or with living and educational expenses of the survivors.

Accidental Death Insurance – If the death was an accident, check with the company with which the deceased carried medical/health insurance. Free accidental death and dismemberment insurance, is sometimes provided to those participating in group medical/health insurance. Free accidental death and dismemberment insurance might also be sponsored and administered in an organization, other than the medical/health insurance company, such as sponsored and administered by the National Association of Government Employees. If the death was an accident, normally payment will be made to the designated beneficiary.

Pension & Retirement – File for any pension/retirement benefits due to the survivors of the deceased.

Life Insurance with Credit Unions – Check with community credit unions, credit unions at all places where the deceased has been employed and possibly other credit unions, to see whether he or she had deposits or life insurance there. If so, discuss payment of money in the accounts and apply for insurance benefits.

Automobile or Homeowner’s Insurance – Check with insurance companies which the deceased had automobile insurance and homeowner’s insurance to determine whether any death benefits such as payment of funeral and burial expenses are payable under policies.

Automobile Club – Check with the deceased’s automobile club to see if any life insurance, or other benefits are due to the survivors.

Credit Card Companies – Check with all credit card companies with which the deceased held credit cards and apply for any death benefits that are due. For example, some credit card companies automatically carry accident life insurance on card holder. The insurance may be collected by survivors, for example, if the cardholder had charged his or her airline ticket on the credit card and was subsequently killed in a crash of the aircraft, or died within a specified time following the accident.

Medical Claims – Submit any medical claims for the deceased to health insurance companies, and/or Medicare for payment or reimbursement.

Debts – Check on all debts of the deceased. Some debts may carry credit life insurance that will pay the outstanding balance of the debts.

Insurance Companies – Notify the deceased’s insurance companies of the death; cancel policies, if appropriate (or remove the name of the deceased from the policy, if appropriate) and request refunds of premiums. Such insurance may include automobile, personal property, medical, disability, homeowners and others. Discuss the above with the deceased’s insurance agent(s) before taking any action.

Cancelling Goods and Services – Cancel orders for unwanted goods and services ordered by the deceased and collect any applicable refunds.

Season Tickets – Turn in season tickets that were held by the deceased (for sports events, symphonies, ballets, etc.) and request refunds.

Cancel Magazine Subscriptions – Cancel unwanted magazine and newspaper subscriptions, or book club memberships held by the deceased and request refunds.

Cancel Memberships in Clubs – Cancel memberships in clubs and organizations to which the deceased belonged and request refunds.

College Students – If the deceased was a college student, cancel enrollment and request refunds of payments for such things as tuition, room and board, laboratory fees and activity fees.

Rental Properties – If the deceased was renting a living accommodation for himself or herself only, contact the landlord and cancel the lease. Ask for any applicable refunds, such as the security deposit and rend paid in advance.

Income Taxes – Check copies of the income tax returns filed recently to determine if any refunds are due. If the refunds are not received, you will know to follow up. (check with your lawyer, tax accountants, IRS and state Tax Office for instructions on filing final tax returns for the deceased)

Death by Fault of Another – If the death of the deceased was the fault of someone else, check on the possibility of benefits payable under liability insurance carried by the person at fault. Also, consider whether a lawsuit should be brought against the responsible party. Consult your lawyer.

Debt Owed to the Deceased – Collect the total amount, or accept periodical payments for the debts owed to the deceased.

Caution of Those Wanting to Help – Be cautious of strangers offering to help during your bereavement, particularly those wanting to help you handle or invest your money. Put off making major financial decisions (if at all possible) until the moment your mental state will allow you to think clearly and logically.

Loss of Benefits if Remarried – If the deceased was your spouse, check with all appropriate sources of survivors benefits to determine whether you will lose your benefits if you remarry. After receiving the necessary information, you can, in time, make an informed decisoin on remarriage.

The post What To Do When Someone Dies appeared first on Blog | Allen-Hall Mortuary - Logan, UT .

A Quick Guide to Pre-Arranged Funeral Planning

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 16:48:00 GMT

“Is this what they would have wanted?” is an all too common question when families come to plan a funeral. Making your wishes clear ahead of time can prove to be a great comfort to loved ones.

What Is Pre-Planning?

Pre-planning is the process of planning your funeral arrangements in advance. It involves making decisions such as:

What type of funeral service do you want?
What type of casket or urn do you prefer?
Is there going to be a viewing the night prior in addition to the day of services?
Where will the services take place?
Who do you want to participate?

A pre-planning counselor or funeral director can help you through the process. They can help you organize and record everything according to your desires.

Our staff can provide you with advice and guidance during your pre-planning process. They can ensure you have all the information you need in order to make informed decisions.

Your arrangements can be paid in advance (upfront or monthly payments) or they can be stored here at our funeral home until they are needed.

Why Pre-Plan?

There are many reasons why people decide to pre-plan. However, the most common reason we hear is that individuals want to protect their family members (spouse, kids, parents, etc.) by ensuring they won’t be left with the cumbersome task of making arrangements at a time of loss.

We encourage individuals and families to pre-plan in order to help relieve their family members of the stresses and difficulties that come with planning a funeral during a period of grieving. Planning ahead let’s your family and loved ones know your final wishes and desires so they aren’t left guessing.

What About Pre-Payment?

Funeral pre-planning, for a lot of people, has become an extension of the estate planning process. As they plan for retirement or the next stage in their life, pre-planning their funeral is one more thing they choose to take care of. Pre-planning your funeral allows you to protect your family from inflation and rising costs by locking in at today’s prices.

Should I Pre-Pay?

Everyone’s circumstances and situation are different which will influence your decision, but there are some great advantages to pre-payment that you should consider:

Guaranteed Services: As soon as you have fully funded or made a down payment on your arrangements, we guarantee to provide the selected merchandise and services regardless if the price goes up over time. For example, if you select a $3,000 casket today and the price of that casket increases to $5,000 at time of need, you are not responsible to pay the difference. However, there are some services that we cannot guarantee the cost of because the services aren’t provided by us directly, such as obituaries through the local newspaper. Our staff are skilled at helping you to estimate these expenditures and to make allowances for them in your funding arrangements.

Estate Planning: Many people choose to pre-plan and pre-pay for their funeral as they are approaching retirement. Often times, it is during this point in your life that you are in your prime earning years and have the most expendable income. Pre-payment can eliminate an unpredictable future expense from your financial planning.

Budgeting: We offer a pre-planning payment option that allows you to pay for the cost of your selected merchandise and services over a period of time, interest free.

Pre-Payment Options

You have the choice of paying in one installment (all upfront) or through monthly payments. We offer families interest-free monthly payments if they put 10% down. You can spread the monthly payments out up to five years (60 months).

With our pre-payment plans, you are locked-in at today’s prices – which means you don’t have to worry about the increases in costs overtime. This is why many people choose to pre-pay for their funeral arrangements.

How To Pre-Plan Your Funeral

The process to begin the planning conversation is simple. For some, casually bringing up the idea to plan ahead to your spouse or family over a family gathering or dinner is best. For others, planning a formal meeting might be better suited.

Regardless of how you approach the situation, the conversation is much easier to have when death is not imminent.

When you are ready to start making your arrangements, call one of our pre-planning counselors at 435-881-8874 to get started. They will ensure that all necessary steps are taken to help you along the way.

Please call our Pre-Planning Counselor at 435-881-8874 to ask questions or schedule your appointment.

The post A Quick Guide to Pre-Arranged Funeral Planning appeared first on Blog | Allen-Hall Mortuary - Logan, UT .

How to Write a Great Obituary

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 22:13:00 GMT

Following the passing of a loved one, family members can become overwhelmed with all the decisions that need to be made in the midst of their grief. One thing the family often feels overwhelmed with is the writing of the obituary. Don’t worry – the obituary will honor your loved one’s life simply by you writing it.

Because newspapers charge you by inch, word, or line (depending on the publication), make sure to write the obituary according to your budget.

If you’ve recently lost a loved one and have been assigned to write the obituary, we hope this checklist will help you in your efforts. We will walk you step-by-step on how to write a great obituary.

Announce the Death

Begin the obituary by announcing the death of your loved one. Here is some information you can include (in no particular order):

Full Name
Brief Description
Age
Day of Passing

You can generally fit all of this information into one or two sentences.

Example 1 : John R. Doe, devoted husband to wife Jane, peacefully left this life surrounded by family on October 15, 2019, at the age of 92.

Example 2 : On Thursday February 28th, 2019, Jane Doe returned home to her Father in Heaven and reunited with the love of her life John Doe whom she has missed daily for the past 10+ years.

Example 3 : Jane Doe, 48, passed away unexpectedly at her home in Logan, Utah on July 12th, 2019 after a courageous 20-year battle with Type 1 diabetes.

Provide General Biographical Information

The next section of the obituary typically includes biographical information of your loved one. This section can include things like:

Birth Date
Upbringing
Education
Marriage Information
Accomplishments
Work History

Example : John was the oldest of the family of three born in Ogden, UT on June 39, 1935 to John Doe Sr. and Betty Smith. He graduated from Ogden High School in 1957 and attended college at Utah State University where his and Jane’s love story began.

He was known for his sweet spirit and his love and service to others. He was a caring father to his four children whom he had a special bond with. He had many talents. One of which was his ability to paint beautiful scenery of Utah landscapes. His artwork can be seen in many businesses throughout Cache Valley. John was an accomplished accountant at Company XYZ, where he started working upon graduation from USU and continued working there for over 30 years.

Capture the Spirit of Your Loved One

It’s important to capture and express the spirit of your loved one when writing their obituary. Put together a paragraph that describes not only what they did, but also what they were like. In order to do that, you can focus on things like:

Hobbies
Passions
Personal Characteristics

Example : Jane was also an excellent piano teacher giving private piano lessons for a period of 25 plus years. She delighted in showing off her student’s talents in the annual piano recitals she presented. She was always eager to share her musical talent with others and nothing made her smile bigger than watching her students perform.

Listing the Family Members

Most don’t have room to list every niece and cousin by name, especially for large families. However, it’s important to list those close family members who passed away before the loved one. It’s also important to list the close surviving family members such as parents, spouse, and children. It’s also okay to reference other relatives more generally.

Example : John is survived by his wife, Jane, three children and their spouses, Child 1 and Spouse 1, Child 2 and Spouse 2; Child 3 and Spouse 3, two sisters, Sister 1, Sister 2, 10 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral Information

Provide the location, time, and date of the funeral or memorial services. Include information regarding flowers, donation, or condolences, also.

Example : In lieu of flowers the family suggests that donations be made to Cache Valley for Hope at www.cachevalleyforhope.org . Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 12:00 pm at Allen-Hall Mortuary, 34 East Center, Logan, UT. There will be a viewing held on Friday evening from 6-8 pm and on Saturday from 10:30 – 11:30 am. Interment will be in the Logan City Cemetery.

Review and Revise

Double check your work and have a family members look over the obituary to make sure all information is accurate and that there are no mistakes. It is easy to overlook things during a time of grief so a second set of eyes will be helpful. Once you feel the obituary is complete, you can send it off for publication.

Please visit our Obituaries page if you would like to reference other obituaries.

The post How to Write a Great Obituary appeared first on Blog | Allen-Hall Mortuary - Logan, UT .

Blog | Allen-Hall Mortuary – Logan, UT

The Ultimate Guide to Pre-Planning Your Final Wishes

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1. Understanding Pre-Planning

What is Pre-Planning?

Benefits of Pre-Planning

2. Key Areas of Pre-Planning

Legal & Administrative Planning

Funeral & Memorial Arrangements

Disposition of Remains

Personalization

Financial Planning

3. Step-by-Step Pre-Planning Process

Step 1 – Clarify Your Priorities

Step 2 – Research Options

Step 3 – Make Legal Arrangements

Step 4 – Choose Service Details

Step 5 – Arrange Payment

Step 6 – Document & Store Plans

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

5. Special Considerations

6. Checklists

Essential Documents Checklist

Funeral Arrangement Checklist

7. Conversation Starters

8. Updating Your Plan

9. Final Words

A Step-by-Step Guide to Handling a Loved One’s Affairs After Death

Immediate Steps to Take After a Loved One Passes

1. Obtain a Legal Pronouncement of Death

2. Notify Family and Close Friends

3. Secure Any Dependents or Pets

4. Protect the Home and Belongings

Gather Important Documents

5. Obtain the Death Certificate

6. Locate the Will and Estate Plan

7. Identify Financial Documents

Handle Funeral and Burial Arrangements

8. Check for Pre-Planned Funeral Arrangements

9. Plan the Funeral or Memorial Service

10. Publish an Obituary

Manage Legal and Financial Affairs

11. Notify Social Security and Other Benefits Providers

12. Contact Banks and Financial Institutions

13. File for Life Insurance Claims

14. Settle Debts and Cancel Unnecessary Accounts

15. Transfer Property and Assets

Handle Emotional and Long-Term Considerations

16. Seek Grief Support

17. Organize Personal Belongings

18. Finalize Estate and Legal Matters

Final Thoughts

The Importance of Having a Memorial Site for Family to Visit

1. A Place for Reflection and Healing

2. Strengthening Family Bonds and Traditions

3. Preserving Family History

4. Cultural and Religious Significance

5. A Legacy for Future Generations

Conclusion

How To Dedicate a Grave

5 Important Reasons to Preplan Your Final Wishes

1. Reduce Stress for Your Family

2. Help Prevent Family Conflict

3. Help Ensure Your Wishes Are Met

4. You’ll Save Money

5. You Can Enjoy Life More

8 Ways To Cope With Grief During The Holidays

What To Do When Someone Dies: Checklist

Funeral & Graveside Services During COVID-19 Pandemic

Medicaid Spend Down Strategies

Veterans Benefits

What To Do When Someone Dies

A Quick Guide to Pre-Arranged Funeral Planning

How to Write a Great Obituary

Announce the Death

Provide General Biographical Information

Capture the Spirit of Your Loved One

Listing the Family Members

Funeral Information

Review and Revise