RHINELANDER - Last week we told you about a state funeral organization that lost millions of dollars in pre paid funeral funds.

But not all funeral homes are members of the Wisconsin Funeral Director's Association, and not all members offered this plan.

So what options are out there for people who want to make sure all their loose ends are tied up before the inevitable?

President of Carlson Funeral Home, Dr. Bruce Carlson, says about half of the population pre plans in for their funeral. The most common ways are with insurance policies or CDs at the bank. People also save with their pensions or IRAs.

"The bottom line is it's their money; it ought to be put where they want it to be put. Any responsible funeral director will give them options that are all in their benefit and let them decide where the money goes," says Carlson.

But if you choose to invest in a policy or trust, how can you be sure your money will be safe?

"Dealing with somebody that you can trust, especially in a small community. Somebody that's been there forever. Asking the funeral home where the money's going to go," says Carlson.

He says you should watch out for funeral homes that try to make you pay up front for your plans. You can pay up front, but the only people who need to are those about to take some kind of state assistance, like a nursing home.

Story By: Newswatch 12 News Team