Is it Necessary to Buy a Pre-Planned Funeral Package?

When the time comes to say goodbye to a loved one, emotions run high. The last thing most families want to deal with in that moment is a long list of decisions, logistical headaches, and unexpected expenses. That is where pre-planned funeral packages come in – but are they truly necessary?

If you have been approached by someone to purchase a funeral package and you shrug at the thought of it, I can resonate. For most, it is a taboo topic, more so if you come from a traditional Chinese family. It is not something to be purchased beforehand, and would only be purchased when needed. That is what I thought as well, until my late mother passed unexpectedly. That was when I was introduced to “as need” and “pre need” funeral packages and what it meant financially. At the moment of need, all I could think of was arranging a funeral service and all the necessary without thinking about the finance aspect of it.

In this article, I will be breaking down what a pre-planned funeral package is, why more Malaysians are considering purchasing it, and whether it may be the right choice for you.

What is a Pre-Planned Funeral Package?

A pre-planned funeral package is a funeral service arrangement fully paid in advance. This is made possible by companies like Nirvana Asia that offers funeral packages under their product called Nirvana Life Plan (NLP) whereby you can purchase them in advance. This means you purchase these services well in advance before you need them. For some, this is part of legacy planning – somewhat similar to wealth planning, will writing, and creating trust funds. For some, it provides peace of mind. For some, it is preparing for the inevitable and making sure that the final journey is taken care of.

Either way, Nirvana Asia makes it possible for those who want to put all these plans in place. The Nirvana Life Plan (NLP) covers transportation, embalming, prayer services, casket, cremation or burial, coordination of the wake, and the funeral ceremony. For full details of what it covers, check out each of the packages in Nirvana Funeral Packages.

Benefits of Planning Ahead

There are many benefits of planning ahead, mostly on peace-of-mind and financial aspects. Below are the full details:

Financial Certainty

Funeral costs rise over time. Buying a pre-planned funeral package lets you lock in today’s prices. Over the last few years, some of the packages have increased in price, taking into account inflation and current prices.

In addition, there are also price differences for “pre-need” and “as-need” prices. If you are purchasing a package to be used immediately, you will be paying the List Price. If you are purchasing it on a pre-purchase basis, you will get a price discount. Eg. NV Essential list price is RM23,800 while it would only be RM21,800 for pre-planned purchase.

Less Burden for Loved Ones

Planning a funeral is emotionally and physically draining. Pre-purchased funeral packages remove the pressure from family members. This allows family members to focus on mourning and healing, and not on the logistics of planning a funeral.

Control Over Your Final Wishes

Pre-arrangement ensures that your final wishes are honored. There would be no second thoughts over what you have in mind, what you wanted, as you have pre-selected the package you wanted.

Professional Support

Nirvana Life Plan funeral packages include full coordination, covering wake setup, cremation or burial arrangements, and more (see each package for details). The professional help is invaluable during difficult times.

Drawbacks of Pre-Planned Funeral Package

Like any financial decision, there are a few things to consider:

• Upfront Costs: You will have to pay all these costs upfront – starting with a down payment and followed by installment plans. Or you could pay the full amount.
• Changed Circumstances: If you move to another country, this package will no longer be relevant. However, you can still change ownership by contacting Nirvana themselves – though this is not a norm.
• Service Limitations: Always check the terms of service and scope in the purchase order listing. If in doubt, always refer to the written information for full confirmation. Do not rely on verbal confirmations.

Who Should Consider Buying a Pre-Planned Funeral Package?

It may not be for everyone. Different people have different thoughts around it. If you are struggling financially at the moment (hard to make ends meets), then it may not be the right timing for you to consider making an investment on pre-planned funeral package. However, it will be perfect for the below circumstances:

• You want to reduce emotional and financial stress for your family.
• You want to lock in today’s prices.
• You value control over the details of your final farewell.
• You do not have family members who will undertake the responsibility of your funeral. (no spouse, no children, no sibling, no close family member)
• You want to check all the boxes in your legacy planning.

Is Pre-Planning Worth It?

If you value peace of mind, dignity, and financial preparedness, then a pre-planned funeral package is not just helpful but it is wise. It is not about being morbid; but it is about making a final act of love and care for your family and loved ones.

We believe that planning a funeral in advance is the most thoughtful way to ensure every farewell is carried out with dignity, respect, and peace of mind.

If you are financially ready and have the right mindset around it, then we are happy to assist you. Our contact details are as below.