He wants to make me his power of atty, and I said I would take care of him. His health is not good. I'm afraid I will be responsible for his funeral and other expenses at some point. I want to take out a policy that will allow me to pay his expenses. I am unemployed, so I cannot afford hundreds of dollars a month for a policy
If you plan on doing this, you need to do it soon, as most companies aren't going to insure someone who has such a poor prognosis that they will die within a couple of months.
You are a wonderful friend to this person, but unless you have some legal agreement that makes you responsible for his debts, you won't actually be responsible to the burial. Yet, we all want a dignified end for our loved ones. Best wishes for you and your friend.
Carol
Perhaps you two can discuss something other than a traditional funeral & burial?
It is very expensive - even if you have a policy. My mom has a prepaid funeral policy and even with that not everything is included. Like floral is extra, police escort is extra as that is set by the city or the county.
What about a cremation? This should run under $ 1,000.00. Your friend could choose the urn in advance and decide on where for it to go. Costco sells urns and most states allow for this to be done. there are all types too…fancy bronze ones and even "green" ones designed for tossing out into the ocean or lake. If there are other family, you could get the ashes placed in a couple of urns, for you and for them. It is wonderful you can help out your friend in this way.
You are a good friend. Money should not become your worry. We make a big deal of funerals, but frankly how important are they? Do they need to be traditional?
I suggest you continue to give your friend the most valuable gift you can....support and time in this scary final stage of life. Spend time and whatever financial resources you can to enjoy life, have dinner, bring ice cream to the NH, recall old times, look at old pictures, whatever you both can still enjoy together. Still healthy enough for an outing?
Cremation and even remains disposition is provided in my County by the medical examiner's office. It is a dignified end, very low cost. For deceased already on government aid. I believe it is free. Check to see what your County offers. The SS benefit would likely be enough to cover this option. Check the web page.
As far as a funeral in a funeral home, it can be very expensive, I have paid for 3 and arranged 2 more....EXPENSIVE. Necessitated only by tradition and societal expectation. At the end of the day you are paying for a venue for people to gather and remember.
If your friend is a church member the pastor, minister or priest should be available for a blessing or you can request a Mass. Invite grievors to the memorial and host them at your house, another friends house, or even a park for a time of rememberance....share stories, shake hands and take solace in the fact you supported your friend in life and saw him off in death.
Raise a toast to your friend and celebrate his life.
Minimize his afterlife expenses.
Best of luck to you,
L