Funeral Wishes: The Full Guide

04 January 2023

Discussing funeral wishes is an uncomfortable topic for many, but it's important to ensure that your wishes are carried out after you're gone. In this post, we'll explore the legalities surrounding funeral wishes and provide tips for discussing and recording them.

Funeral Wishes and the Law

Executors of a Will are the decision-makers when it comes to arranging the funeral. It is important to note that they are not legally bound to follow funeral wishes noted in the Will. The Law Commission has recommended that funeral wishes be legally binding, but as yet, there has been no indication whether this will be changed.

So, what can be done, if there is no legal stipulation that funeral wishes expressed in any shape or form need to be followed?

Discuss Your Funeral Wishes with a Close and Trusted Family Member

To ensure the strongest chance of your funeral wishes being carried out, discuss them with a trusted family member. It may be an uncomfortable conversation, but it can save a lot of stress and pain after you've passed. Having your funeral wishes outlined, can not only provide you with peace of mind, but will also make the funeral planning far less stressful for the family members planning it.

What About In the Will?

Although many people still cite their funeral wishes in their will, it's best to not go into too much detail. Simply stating whether you want to be cremated or buried is sufficient. A written letter expressing your wishes is also a good addition. This can take any form and can be updated as required. This is where you can outline your funeral wishes in more detail, to include what type of funeral service you may wish to have, what type of flowers you wish to have, where you may wish for your ashes to be scattered and if you have any specific requests you wish for the funeral arranger to carry out. Again, this is not a legally binding document, but allows for your funeral wishes to be known.

Tips for Recording Funeral Wishes:

Keep it simple and concise.
Avoid legal jargon.
Provide a copy of your funeral wishes note to the executors and individuals responsible for arranging your funeral.
Update your funeral wishes note as required.

Discussing and recording funeral wishes can be uncomfortable, but it's essential to ensure that your wishes are carried out. By following the tips provided in this post, you can make the process easier for yourself and your loved ones.