As more and more families opt for cremation over a traditional burial, we find families are seeking out information to help them better understand their options. This article provides a brief overview of cremation in Boston, how you can save money by arranging cremation services, and helps you compare cremation costs between funeral service providers in Boston.
How can you save money by arranging a cremation?
You can arrange a simple direct cremation service for just $1,295. Call (617) 609-8801 to make arrangements.
A cremation is likely to save you 40 – 50% on the cost of a traditional burial funeral. Why is this? It is largely because you can eliminate some of the largest outlays associated with a funeral. With cremation, there is no need for a casket, embalming, a burial vault, a cemetery plot, or a full-size grave marker.
Eliminating these funeral merchandise items/services can save you a few thousand dollars! Another way that cremation can save money is that it is possible to hold a memorial service (with the cremated remains present) without having to go ahead with a funeral ceremony immediately.
This can allow families time to make decisions. Often, this can mean that money-saving options can be more thoroughly explored. Some families even choose to conduct their own memorial service, which can save on venue and staff costs. it also makes a service so much more personalized.
What is the average cost of a cremation in Boston?
Cremation prices differ considerably between funeral homes in Boston. For this reason, an ‘average’ cremation cost has to be put into perspective depending on what kind of cremation services are being assessed. Cremation price surveys put the average cost of a cremation funeral in Boston at $7,071* and the average cost for a direct cremation at $2,575. However, affordable cremation service providers offer direct cremation packages starting at $1,295.
Cremation Packages
A funeral home must have a general price list (GPL) outlining their service charges, but many funeral homes also offer cremation packages, where a price is offered for a complete cremation service. In comparing costs and services between funeral homes, it is important to ensure you are comparing like-for-like services, especially when it is a quoted cremation package price. Not all cremation providers quote a fully inclusive price when quoting a cremation package.
Direct cremation in Boston
Direct cremation, or immediate cremation, is becoming an increasingly popular choice for funeral consumers. A direct cremation is the simplest and least expensive option. It involves the funeral home collecting the deceased, transferring him/her into their care, completing all the necessary paperwork, and conducting the cremation (after the legal waiting period of 48 hours).
A basic cremation container is used, and the ashes are generally returned in a temporary urn. Direct cremation in Boston can cost anywhere between $1,295 and $3,000.
How do I choose a cremation provider in Boston?
Choosing a cremation provider can depend upon what kind of services you require. If you are looking for a cremation with a ceremony or interment committal, then you will need a funeral home that offers the facilities for a ceremony and that is in a good location for your family.
If you have decided upon a simple direct cremation at the most affordable price, then you may consider the services of a provider who specifically offers direct cremation at a low cost. The locale of the funeral home is not as essential if no services are being held. And many funeral homes have extended their service area for direct cremation services.
It is always wise to shop around and compare services and costs. We do it in any other large purchase, so why not when purchasing end-of-life services?
What about preplanning a simple, affordable cremation?
Most budget cremation packages offered are’ at need’ prices. If you wish to purchase a simple cremation plan, the cost will be higher. The cost of a cremation plan will depend on how it is funded and your age when purchasing a prepaid plan.
Do consider that an alternative is to document your funeral wishes and put aside the appropriate funds to cover a basic cremation in a POD account [Payable on Death or Totten Trust]. Your money is safe and accumulating interest for you, and your surviving family/beneficiary can access the funds when needed.
What if the deceased had no life insurance? Is there any help with cremation costs in Boston?
Sadly, more families are finding themselves struggling to meet funeral costs. Public aid can be a little patchy, depending on where you are. In Boston, the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) will pay for part of the cost of a funeral for MassHealth (Medicaid) members and other low-income, financially qualifying individuals.
The DTA will pay up to $1,100 for funeral expenses that do not exceed $1,500. You must inform your chosen funeral director that you are claiming a Medicaid or MassHealth funeral, and the funeral director will then bill the DTA. The deceased’s family must pay the remaining $400 to the funeral home.
There is also the $255 Social Security lump sum death benefit for those who qualify, and various union, faith, and charitable organizations may offer some support to families to assist with covering funeral costs.
I have been researching and writing about the death care industry for the last fifteen years. End of life services and experiences are something most of us choose not to reflect upon until we are suddenly faced with dealing with it. I have been contributing comprehensive and independent resources for families that explain how the funeral industry operates, and the laws that govern funeral practices. Sara writes for US Funerals Online and DFS Memorials LLC, as well as contributing to other forums and publications for the death care industry. I have a BA in Cultural Studies. This helps my analysis of cultural death care rituals, alongside a career background in Business Management. The death care industry is undergoing an epoch of change and this fascinates me.
