Plan Ahead. Protect Those You Love Most.
Pre-planning your funeral or cremation locks in today’s affordable rates, removes uncertainty, and spares your family from difficult financial and logistical decisions.
Why Plan Ahead With Families First?
Guaranteed Pricing
Lock in today's transparent rates—starting at $1,235 for direct cremation—protecting your family from future price increases.
Relieve Family Burden
Document your exact wishes ahead of time so your grieving loved ones are spared difficult logistical and financial decisions.
Flexible Financing
Take advantage of manageable, low-monthly-payment options through Family Shield Credit to fund your arrangements over time.
100% Secure & Portable
All funds are safely placed in state-regulated trust or life insurance accounts per Ohio law and remain transferable nationwide.
Complete Your Arrangements Online
Use our secure, self-guided online planner to explore packages, record vital personal details, and establish your advance plan in just a few minutes.
Start Advance Planning OnlineFrequently Asked Questions
Why should I pre-plan my cremation or funeral now instead of waiting?
Advance planning locks in present-day pricing, shielding your loved ones from future inflation. More importantly, it spares your family from having to make dozens of difficult logistical and financial decisions while actively grieving.
Can I pre-plan without paying the entire balance today?
Yes. You can document your specific wishes on file with us without pre-funding, or choose flexible, low-monthly-payment financing through Family Shield Credit to lock in today's pricing over manageable installments.
Are my pre-paid funds safe and protected under Ohio law?
Yes. Under Ohio state law, all pre-need funeral funds are deposited into a secure, state-regulated trust or dedicated life insurance policy. Families First cannot access or withdraw these funds until services are actually performed.
What happens if I move away from the Columbus area after planning?
Your pre-need policy is 100% portable. Because your funds reside in a protected, state-regulated trust or policy, your plan can easily be transferred to any licensed funeral provider across the country.

