More families today are choosing cremation as their preferred funeral choice.  It can be much more affordable than a burial service and can offer much more flexibility.  Changing attitudes to religion and the environment in the US have also led to a shift towards cremation.  California has a higher cremation rate than most states, with some counties running at an 80% cremation rate.

What do I need to consider if choosing a cremation?

You need to consider what kind of cremation service you want, and what type of cremation provider you wish to select.  There are various cremation service options from a simple direct cremation to a full traditional funeral service followed by cremation.

You need to consider if you wish to employ the services of a funeral home, or deal directly with a crematory and cremation company or cremation society.  As cremation is so popular in Sacramento, there are several cremation companies that specialize in cremation only.

How do I select a cremation service provider in Sacramento?

It is always wise to check around before committing to a cremation services provider.  Ask family and friends of their experiences, or do some research online or by phone.  As with any other sector, there is the ‘good, the bad and the ugly’.

What you get included in a cremation services package and what level of service you are given can vary by who you deal with.  Costs for a cremation service can also differ significantly, even for the exact same service.

What type of cremation service should I opt for?

This is entirely a personal choice.  A direct cremation is becoming more popular as many families want simplicity and affordability these days and a simple, direct cremation offers this.  It can allow families to take care of the immediate disposition, enabling them to prepare their own memorial service at a later date.

How much does a cremation service cost in Sacramento?

This is a question that is often asked, and the only true answer is that it can vary.  It is dictated by what kind of cremation service you select.  As I mentioned direct cremation is the least expensive option, costing just $795 in Sacramento.  A cremation with a memorial is likely to cost in the region of $2,500 and a full funeral with cremation afterward will cost around $3,000 – $5,000, depending on services and products selected.

How much does a direct cremation cost in Sacramento?

A direct cremation can be conducted for $795.

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Sacramento

Before a cremation can go ahead there are certain legal requirements.  Firstly, there is a mandatory wait period after death before the cremation can be performed.  And the legal next of kin must sign a Cremation Authorization Form.

What do I do if I cannot afford a cremation?

Sadly, there is little state or county assistance that helps a family pay for a cremation.  The county may be obligated to pay for indigent cremations, but in these cases, they are often unclaimed remains where there is no family.  You may wish to contact Sacramento Human Services to inquire as to what assistance may be available, but in reality, it may require the family to raise the basic funds to conduct a direct cremation.

Releasing a body from the Medical Examiner’s Office and arranging a low-cost cremation

If the deceased was transferred to the Medical Examiner and you are seeking a simple cremation once the body is released, you can arrange a direct cremation, often at a lower cost than a direct cremation with collection from an institution or residential address.

Local funeral homes & crematories have relationships with the Medical Examiner to obtain cremation permits and have the body released, so they can manage this process, and arrange for a cremation.  The ME’s office has a staff to assist with the transfer of the body to the funeral director so the cost for collection can prove less.

Sacramento County Coroner is located at 4800 Broadway, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95820

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