Origin: Germanic Old English prefix
Beforehand has 4 different meanings across 2 categories:
being ahead of time or need
"gave advance warning"
"was beforehand with her report"
In comfortable circumstances as regards property; forehanded.
"After years of living paycheck to paycheck, she finally felt financially beforehand enough to buy a house without taking out a mortgage."
ahead of time; in anticipation
"when you pay ahead (or in advance) you receive a discount"
"We like to plan ahead"
"should have made reservations beforehand"
At an earlier or preceding time.
"She arrived at the museum two hours beforehand to secure a good spot before the crowds gathered."