A memorial plan for a living trust is a document that outlines your wishes for your funeral, burial, or other arrangements after your passing. While a living trust primarily focuses on managing your assets during your lifetime and distributing them after your death, a memorial plan can be a separate document that complements your trust.
Here are some considerations for including a memorial plan in your living trust:
Funeral Preferences
Specify whether you prefer burial or cremation, and any specific requests for the funeral service, such as location, religious or cultural customs, music, readings, etc.
Disposition of Remains
Detail your wishes regarding the handling of your remains, including any specific instructions for burial, scattering of ashes, or donation of organs or tissues.
Memorial Service
Outline your preferences for any memorial or celebration of life service, including who should be invited and any specific arrangements or traditions you would like observed.
Memorial Gifts or Donations
Specify any organizations, charities, or causes you would like donations to be made to in lieu of flowers or other gifts.
Obituary and Notices
Provide guidance on who should be responsible for drafting your obituary and any notices to be published or distributed, and include any preferences or information you would like included.
Personal Belongings
Indicate how you would like your personal belongings, such as jewelry, heirlooms, or other items of sentimental value, to be distributed or handled.
Including a memorial plan within your living trust can help ensure that your wishes are known and respected by your loved ones and can provide guidance and comfort during a difficult time. It’s essential to review and update your memorial plan periodically to reflect any changes in your preferences or circumstances. Additionally, you may want to discuss your memorial plan with your trustee or executor to ensure they are aware of your wishes and can carry them