When it comes to planning for the future, there are a few sensitive yet important topics, such as end-of-life arrangements*.

It's a conversation many shy away from*, as some prefer to focus on the present.

Yet, with the cost of living soaring and the economic landscape becoming unpredictable, more and more Australians are taking a proactive approach to their farewell*.

Among them is former Australian cricket captain Ian Chappell, who made headlines by prepaying for a simple, cremation-only funeral with Bare*.

Chappell's decision might have raised some eyebrows, but it's a growing trend that could offer significant benefits* in the long run.

Here are the top five reasons why prepaying your funeral* is a wise choice:

Lock in today's prices against inflation

Funerals, just like anything, are subject to the whims of inflation.

Ian Chappell shared his thoughts about prepaying his final send-off. Image Credit: YouTube/Bare

Historically, funeral costs have risen by about five to seven per cent* per year.

By prepaying, you're purchasing your funeral at today's prices* without fearing future increases.

You're ensuring that your wishes are honoured without compromise* and protecting your family from financial unpredictability.

Alleviate financial burden

The emotional toll of losing a loved one* is almost too heavy to bear as is.

Financial concerns could only add more pressure on the surviving family members.

Planning and prepaying for your funeral* could lift a considerable burden from your family's shoulders.

Security and peace of mind

When you prepay with Bare*, your funds immediately go into an APRA-regulated fund*.

This keeps your investments safe*, regardless of what happens to the company.

This level of security offers peace of mind for you and your family, knowing that the arrangements are set and the funds are protected*.

Convenience at your fingertips

Technology has made many appointments easier from the comfort of your home, and funeral planning is no exception.

Bare lets subscribers set up their prepayment plan online or over the phone*.

This convenience is great for those for whom travelling is difficult or who prefer the privacy of making arrangements in their own space*.

Flexible payment options

Paying for a funeral in one lump sum can be daunting, so Bare offers flexible payment plans*, including monthly instalments.

This approach makes funerals less intimidating* and helps spread the cost over time.

Prepaying your funeral is a thoughtful step* to make things easier for your loved ones when the day comes.

It is also about taking control of your arrangements* and ensuring that your final send-off is in line with your wishes*.

Ian Chappell's decision to prepay his funeral with Bare* is more than just a personal choice; it's a recommendation to plan ahead.

If you're considering a prepaid funeral, you can visit Bare here to learn more about their offerings*.

Hear Ian Chappell's thoughts here:

Source: Bare-Funerals and Cremations/YouTube​

*Please note, members, that this is a sponsored article. All content with an asterisk next to it means we may get a commission when you click on a link—at no cost to you! We do this to assist with the costs of running the SDC. Thank you!

 

[WendyW1954]

Great but they don't service my area

 

[Suzanne rose]

I told hubby last week we need to look at paying for our funeral. All our kids have said not to that they will do it and they don't want us thinking about it .

Two years ago my uncle passed away with no kids and a wife in a nursing home.
The first thing he did when he retired was pay for his funeral. He thought he paid for everything ,grave, headstone ,flowers ect and he did pay for all those BUT ... there were unpaid cost that wasn't disclosed at the time

I was the one who had to arrange everything and get the ball rolling . I was shocked to see these extra cost.

1. Because he passed away on a Saturday afternoon and the nursing homes nolonger have morgues he had to be removed within 8 hours . Because this was out of hours the cost was an extra $800

2. What wasn't included was the actual digging of the grave. That was another cost of $600

3. The cost of the service either in The chapel or graveside wasn't included and that was an extra $500.

These things were not disclosed at the time of my uncle paying for his funeral and it was on any paperwork.

I had his paperwork and it stated . Funeral was fully paid including Grave,flowers,headstone,Hearst and mourning cars.

So becareful if you prepay and make sure you ask what it doesn't cover. Get absolutely every detail written down

 

[Andrew]

Another option is funeral insurance. My wife and have it. Hopefully it will cover most,if not all of the costs. Like every thing else , it will depend on the extra options chosen.

 

[Veggiepatch]

Forget the funeral.

Turn me into "Soylent Green"....

 

[IAN3005]

Got that covered.... You expect me to cough up the sort of $$$$ to die......no way.
The only thing I will pay for is the death certificate which is an excessive $1,000 which I object to paying.
I have donated my body to the university... they dispose of the bits left over.
I want no fanfare to see me off.