Planning Ahead FAQs

Questions about Planning Ahead? - Here are answers to help guide you.

What is Pre-Planning?

Also called advance planning, planning ahead, or pre-arranging, pre-planning allows you to make decisions now about how your final arrangements will be handled. Doing so reduces stress for your loved ones and ensures your wishes are honored.

How Do I Get Started?

You can meet with a caring Schrader Advance Planning professional to discuss your options and preferences. Together, you’ll document your wishes for services, disposition (cremation or burial), merchandise, and any special requests.
Prefer to start from home? Our Online Pre-Planning form lets you review options and record your preferences at your own pace.

Why Plan Ahead?

Pre-planning provides both emotional and financial benefits:

• Peace of mind for you and your family
• Opportunity to make thoughtful, informed decisions
• Lock in today’s prices and take advantage of flexible payment plans
• Reduce the burden on your loved ones during a difficult time

Do I Have to Pay Now?

No. You can simply document your wishes without prepaying, though this does not lock in prices. Prepaying through a funeral trust guarantees current pricing and often makes financial sense.

Where Does the Money Go?

Funds placed in a Schrader funeral trust are held by the Missouri Funeral Trust and managed through United Missouri Bank (UMB). 100% of your funds go toward your services, with a small portion retained for administration. 

Can I Make My Plan Irrevocable?

Yes. An irrevocable trust ensures funds are used solely for your funeral and may help qualify for government assistance, such as Medicaid. Any unused funds go to the State of Missouri.

What About Interest and Taxes?

Interest earned in a funeral trust stays in the account to help fund your services. All funds are tax-free, and you won’t receive a 1099-INT.

Are Prices Guaranteed?

Yes. Prepaying locks in Schrader’s prices for your services and merchandise, no matter when your arrangements are needed. (Outside charges like cemetery fees, obituaries, or church honoraria are not included.)

Can I Just Use My Life Insurance?

It’s better to leave your life insurance for your family. Missouri laws make using an existing policy to prepay a funeral complicated, and it doesn’t guarantee today’s prices.

I'm a Veteran. Don't I get buried for free? 

Honorably discharged veterans may be eligible for burial in a national cemetery, a headstone, and a flag. However, funeral costs remain the family’s responsibility.

Are there legal protections for consumers?

Missouri law governs the sale, funding, and administration of pre-need contracts to protect consumers. Our staff can guide you through all legal requirements.

What Information Will I Need?

Our online Pre-Planning form is quick and easy. You’ll provide contact details, basic vital statistics, and your general funeral preferences. Completing it now is a simple first step toward peace of mind.