COMMON QUESTION & ANSWERS ABOUT FUNERALS

Often bereaved families have many questions about funeral planning, customs, service options and the personal grieving process. These concerns can be difficult to verbalize in periods of stress and grief. To support families in their funeral planning process, we have developed a FAQ/Information section to help answer questions and provide additional information.

The following is a list of common questions and answers regarding funerals and the bereavement process.

Those interested in receiving more detailed answers to specific questions are invited to contact McInnis & Holloway via e-mail or by calling one of our Calgary offices.

• What should I do when a death occurs?
• When death is expected, what do I do?
• What is important when selecting a funeral home?
• Are there differences between funeral homes?
• How does a funeral director help with the grief process?
  
  

• What are the costs related to funerals?
• What financial decisions need to be made after a death occurs?
• If I am a veteran, what benefits are available to cover funeral expenses?
• Will Canada Pension Plan (CPP) cover funeral expenses?
• Is there government assistance for funeral expense?
• What is covered by insurance policies or Worker's Compensation?
  
  
  
  
  
• Is a funeral service required?
• What options are available if I choose burial?
• What options are available if I choose cremation?
• What options are there for the cremation urn?
• What are my options at Calgary's Mausoleum?
• What about cultural customs, and traditions for the funeral services?
• What if I want a non-traditional funeral?
  
  
  
  
  
• What are some of the benefits of advanced planning?
• How can I prearrange my funeral?
• What are appropriate ways of expressing sympathy?
• How can I understand my grief, and get help?
• How can I create a memorial for a loved one?