Posts

Showing posts with the label memorial

What is the difference between a funeral and a memorial service?

When it comes to funeral-related topics, there are numerous terms and phrases that may initially seem confusing. One area of confusion is the difference between a "funeral" and a "memorial". These terms are used interchangeably sometimes. However, they are not necessarily the same. Generally speaking, a funeral is a gathering where family and friends will come together to mourn, remember and celebrate the life of a person who has recently passed away. It is often a formal gathering where the coffin is present, people are seated in rows of chairs, memories may be shared (including a eulogy), and the coffin may even be conveyed outside at the end of the service. The coffin will be taken from the church/chapel for either a burial or cremation after the funeral. Sometimes, those attending the funeral will continue to gather after the service for refreshments. A memorial is often very similar to a funeral. People will gather, and memories will be shared. However, memori...

What is a Funeral Bond?

Image
  When prepaying for your funeral, the most common way to formalise this is by setting up a Funeral Bond . A Funeral Bond is a type of "investment" that allows you to allocate funds specifically for funeral expenses, with the money only being accessible after your passing . You have the option to pay a lump sum or make regular contributions, and the funds accrue interest, but they cannot be withdrawn early for other uses. These bonds provide tax-effective savings and can be excluded from government income and assets tests up to $15,750, offering a way to plan for funeral costs without financially burdening your loved ones.   A regular Funeral Bond is simply money that is set aside and accrues a little interest over time. This money then contributes to covering some of the costs involved in a funeral when the time comes. However a "prepaid Funeral Bond" sets a fixed amount aside which - in conjunction with a fixed-price contract - will cover the costs of the agreed s...