Cremation: Legal Steps

1. Prepurchase your arrangements and file the contract with your will.
2. If cremation is chosen, sign an Authorization for Cremation form and file a copy with your will.
3. Inform others of whom your arrangements are with.
4. Make a will stating your directive for cremation, or burial.
5. Choose and appoint a willing executor to handle your will.
6. Make your executor aware of the location of your will and cremation or burial contract.
7. Tell your family or other responsible person about your directive(s).
8. Inform them that your direction is in your will.
9. Have a Power of Attorney signed and ready in case it is needed.
10. Have a living will signed and ready if needed. Give copies to family members and physician.
11. Have a Health Care Power of Attorney signed and ready if needed.
12. Include advance directives in your Health Care Power of Attorney, including "Do not Resuscitate" orders and other medical directives dealing with nutrition, hydration, medication, etc.