The time immediatly following the death of a loved one can be days of intense sorrow and emotional stress. During this time, the family must make a number of difficult decisions. Our funeral directors can instruct and guide the family through the difficult problems of this trying time and with our knowledge and experience, can sympathetically relieve the family of needless concerns.

Our funeral directors handle the details associated with the death certificate and burial permit. We can obtain additional copies of the death certificate, which may be required for settling claims. In some locales, a funeral director may serve as the county coroner. The family is in no way obligated to him or her and may use the services of any funeral director they choose.

We will assist you with the following:

Social Security
Claims should be filed within the month of death or the following month. Claims for the lump sum death benefit must be filed within two years of death or benefits will not be honored.

Insurance
We will contact the agents of all insuring companies as soon as possible and will supply all necessary claim forms.

Bank Accounts
We will consult an attorney or your bank to answer any specific questions. We can assist you with probate action if necessary.

Real Estate
Real estate jointly held by a husband and wife is transferred to the surviving spouse. The services of an attorney as in all real estate matters are advisable.

Automobile
Any titled automotive vehicle such as a car, truck, or RV becomes part of the estate when the descendent is the sole owner. We can assist in contacting the local licensing bureau or attorney.

Stocks and Bonds
We will assist in promptly contacting issuing brokers.

Retirement Accounts
We will consult with employers or attorneys regarding the status of retirement plans or survivor benefits.

Veterans Benefits
Anyone who was a member of the military at the time of death or who was honorably discharged, is subject to a number of benefits, which should be investigated.

Estate Taxes
Your estate, when evaluated for Federal estate taxes, will probably be much larger than you think. Generally, included in your taxable estate are life insurance, real estate, stocks and bonds, personal checking and savings accounts, market value of business intrests, household furniture, collections, autos, and other tangible property. Be certain to consult an attorney periodically about current federal and state inheritance tax laws. Your estate will pay less taxes and your survivors will receive more of your hard earned estate if you plan.

Wills
Estate taxes can be reduced significantly if the descendent has prepared a will conceived through an attorney.