Help Getting Organized

You can write down your wishes and plans for memorial services in any form you like. A simple letter will do. In it, you may also wish to state other wishes for final arrangements, such as whether you want to be buried or cremated, and any other preferences for your remains.

If you'd like a ready-made system to help set out your wishes, Nolo offers resources you can use. You can organize this important information with Get It Together: Organize Your Records So Your Family Won't Have To, by Melanie Cullen with Shae Irving, J.D. This workbook with CD-ROM provides a place to document extensive information for your executor and other loved ones. Or, you can use Quicken WillMaker Plus to make a letter setting out your wishes for final arrangements. The software can also help you make your will, living trust, living will, powers of attorney, and other legal documents you may need for yourself and your family.

Store Your Information in a Safe Place

After you've written down your preferences, store them in a secure location, such as fireproof home safe. (Do not store your final wishes in a safe deposit box, because others may not be able to access them in time.) Be sure to talk with your executor and other close family and friends about what you want. Make sure they know where you've stored your plans, and how to get to them when the time comes.

Finally, it's a good idea to review your plans every year or two. Update your instructions if you if you change your mind about any of the details.