We are here to help you arrange a simple and affordable cremation for just $1,295 complete. This includes a wooden cremation urn and 2 death certificates.
The average cost of a traditional funeral in Skokie is $6,822*, which does not include cemetery costs, so it is understandable that many families today are looking for more affordable alternatives.
Cremation is now becoming the preferred, more affordable option to conduct a dignified yet simple funeral service at a fraction of the full cost of a traditional funeral.
Deciding on cremation
Choosing cremation may be a personal choice. Or your decision is governed by finances. Too many families today struggle with unexpected funeral expenses, and cremation offers a simple and affordable alternative.
What different cremation alternatives do I have?
There are 3 main cremation service options. A cremation funeral – where the funeral service is held with the deceased present, and a cremation is conducted after the service.
A cremation memorial – where the cremation is conducted before a memorial service is held. This can be with or without the cremated remains present and can often take the form of an ash scattering ceremony.
Or there is a direct cremation – where the deceased is cremated with no services, and the remains are returned to the family. There are some variances around these 3 main options, such as a private viewing before the cremation, an observed cremation, or a graveside interment of a cremation urn.
Visit our full Guide to Cremation to learn more about what happens from when the funeral home collects the deceased to the family receiving the cremated remains. It explains the cremation process, service options, costs, and laws governing cremation authorization and permit issuing.
How much does a cremation cost in Skokie?
The cost of a cremation can vary considerably. This will depend upon the type of cremation service you opt for and the cremation services provider you select. The average cost of a cremation memorial service is $3,722, depending upon the length of service held and what kind of casket you purchase or rent.
The average cost of a direct cremation is $2,610*, although a direct cremation package can be conducted for just $1,295 with DFS Memorials.
Direct cremation services in Skokie, IL
If you are working on a budget for your funeral expenses, you may wish to consider a direct cremation. A direct cremation is the cheapest cremation option.
The funeral services provider does everything to take care of the immediate disposition of the deceased, but no viewing or services are held. The deceased is cremated in a simple cremation container, and then the cremated remains are made available for the family to collect (or, if requested, delivered/mailed).
A direct cremation can be arranged online or by phone without any need for you to visit a funeral home. For your best price on a direct cremation, contact your DFS Memorials provider in Skokie at (773) 901 1564, who offers a complete direct cremation package for just $1,295.
Comparing cremation costs in Skokie, IL
All funeral homes have a general price list (GPL) that itemizes all services and charges. If you request cremation price information, either in person or by phone, a funeral home must provide you with a copy of its GPL.
According to funeral price research surveys in Skokie, the average cost of a direct cremation is $2,610. However, some cremation providers can arrange a direct cremation for less than this. DFS Memorials offer a direct cremation service for $1,295.
When comparing costs and services, check what IS included, especially with a budget direct cremation package. Is a copy of the death certificate included? Is the cremation permit an additional cash advance item or included? What about if an out-of-hours collection is required? Is there an additional daily refrigeration charge if the cremation does not proceed after 48 hours?
Death certificates cost $19.00 for the first certificate and $4 for each additional death certificate required. You should also note that the county coroner may charge a fee if they are required to sign the death certificate.
What legal considerations affect arranging a cremation?
There are a few legal requirements that you need to be aware of if you are considering cremation. Firstly, the legal next-of-kin must all sign the ‘Cremation Authorization Form’ before a cremation can proceed.
Illinois has a mandatory 24-hour wait period after death before cremation can proceed. Before cremation can proceed, the doctor must sign and fill out the cause of death, and the county health department must issue a permit to cremate.
The deceased will be refrigerated during this period and longer if required. However, you should be aware that many cremation packages will only include refrigeration for up to 5 days and will charge you a daily rate thereon.
Death certificates and permits are considered ‘cash advance’ items and are not generally included in a quoted cremation price. The funeral director will generally obtain the death certificates on your behalf.
Can I preplan a cremation?
Yes, you can prearrange a cremation. Planning ahead and putting a simple cremation plan in place can save your surviving family a lot of stress. Direct cremation plans are available at an affordable cost.
The deceased had no life insurance – is there any help with cremation costs?
Sadly, there is little financial aid that supports those families who find themselves struggling with funeral costs. Most counties have a budget for indigent funerals, but this is generally for those who truly are indigent.
Some counties have limited funds to help low-income families with cremation costs, but this can vary from county to county. You need to inquire with the Cook County Human Services Department at (312) 443-5500 to determine if any assistance is available.
In these cases, the most basic funeral services are often supported, with limited control over what happens. A low-cost direct cremation from DFS Memorials can be arranged for $1,295.
How do I obtain a copy of a death certificate?
You can obtain copies of a death certificate from the Vital Records office at 69 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602. Phone: (312) 603-7790
What happens if the deceased is taken to the Coroner’s Office?
Suppose circumstances surrounding the death led to the deceased being taken to the County Coroner’s office. In that case, you will need to employ the services of a funeral director as soon as possible to liaise with the Coroner and have the body released into their care. Only a licensed funeral director can collect a body from the Coroner’s morgue.
Cook County Coroner, 2121 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
Hopefully, this short guide to arranging an affordable cremation service in Skokie has answered some of your questions and helped you understand how to save costs on a cremation. If you want to read more about cremation planning, please visit the Funeral Resources section on US Funerals Online.
*Prices obtained from online funeral price comparison survey 2024
I have been researching and writing about the death care industry for the past fifteen years. End-of-life services and experiences are topics most people avoid thinking about until they must face them. My work provides comprehensive and independent resources for families, explaining the workings of the funeral industry, the laws governing funeral practices, and the death care trends that impact consumers. With a BA in Cultural Studies, I bring a unique perspective to analyzing cultural death care rituals, complemented by a career background in Business Management. The death care industry is undergoing significant changes, which I find fascinating. The shift towards cremation services and the emergence of sustainable alternatives like aquamation and human composting are of particular interest. I am also intrigued by how technology is reshaping the funeral planning process and experience. I write for US Funerals Online and DFS Memorials LLC, and contribute to various forums and publications within the death care industry.
