Category Archives: Cheap Funerals

What is a direct burial? Your most inexpensive burial option

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There is a lot of talk around the death-care industry about direct cremation.  More families are seeking out direct cremation services when they want a simple and affordable funeral alternative.  But what about the option for a direct burial?  A direct burial is similarly a simple and affordable burial alternative.

A direct cremation service offering is on every funeral home’s General Price List (GPL), but usually towards the end of their listing of services.  It is the most minimal cremation offering available, and therefore also their least expensive funeral service option.  It is possible (in most metro areas) to be able to arrange a direct cremation for around $800. [The price range varies between $695 to $1,395].

However, although some families are searching for affordability and simplicity, cremation is not the choice for everyone.  There are still around 46% of Americans choosing burial services.  A funeral home also has, as standard, a direct burial service package offering.  This is also often located at the bottom of their GPL.

What if you want something simple and inexpensive but still want a burial service?

Then a direct burial might be the solution.

What does a direct burial entail?

Direct burial serviceA direct burial is a similar direct disposition to direct cremation.  There is no formal funeral service conducted at the funeral home, and many of the traditional products and services associated with the cost of a traditional burial are eliminated.

The deceased is taken directly to the cemetery for burial in the days following the death, once the legal paperwork has been completed.  Often a simple wooden casket is used to help to keep the costs down and keep the whole service simple and affordable.

As there is no viewing, visitation, or funeral ceremony, the deceased does not need to be embalmed.

There is the option to hold a simple graveside interment service, if so wished, for an additional cost. Or a memorial service can be conducted at a later date. But we should be clear that a direct burial service is generally different from a graveside burial service on a GPL.

Many of the DFS Memorials affordable service providers offer a low-cost direct burial service.

Visit your state and city to locate a provider near you.

How is a direct burial service different from a green burial service?

In many cases, a direct burial can be the same as a green burial.  If there is no embalming and a simple eco-friendly casket, such as wood, reinforced cardboard, or wicker, this is a natural or green burial.  It will then depend upon the cemetery, whether a green burial plot is chosen.

A green burial can also be considered a direct burial. There is a growing interest in natural burial alternatives. Natural burial can offer a simple and affordable solution to arranging a funeral, especially for those families (or individuals) who do not wish to be cremated.

Funeral homes are reporting a slow trend towards green burial services, but more funeral homes are starting to add simple burial packages to their service offerings. For families where a family plot had already been purchased, a direct burial can be an affordable option to conduct a burial without the expensive costs of a funeral service.

How much does a direct burial cost?

A direct burial is the funeral director’s least expensive burial option.  The cost will range depending on the funeral home, but it is fair to say that a direct burial can be arranged for in the region of $1,200 to $1,600.  The cost of the casket can make a difference to the final cost of the funeral.  This does not include the cemetery fees either.

A direct burial can be an inexpensive funeral option, and suitable if the deceased already have a cemetery plot purchased or a family plot for burial.

This article explains how families can conduct their own Home Funeral or DIY Funeral without the need to even employ a funeral director.  However, do note, there are at least 10 States where funeral licensing laws do require a funeral director is employed at some level.  Whether to register the death certificate & obtain the necessary burial permit, transport the deceased or oversee the interment of the deceased.

Arranging a low cost funeral or cremation in Atlanta

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If paying for funeral costs is a concern for your family, then the DFS Memorials provider in Atlanta can help you save money on your funeral expenses.  The average cost of a funeral is $7,755* (without cemetery expenses), a cost that can seem overwhelming today if the deceased had no funeral plan.

We deal with families every day who turn to online tools to try and find out what the average cost of a cremation is in Atlanta.  The problem is that Atlanta cremation services can vary so much, and you can spend unnecessary time contacting funeral homes and gathering funeral prices.

You have to be sure you are comparing like-for-like as many funeral homes package their services differently.

Sometimes a funeral home can offer what they claim is an “affordable cremation service” but they have not included all costs, especially the crematory fee, which can be considered a cash disbursement if they do not own their own crematory.

At DFS Memorials, we want to take all that hassle and confusion away, and just help you quickly connect with a reputable, licensed funeral home in Atlanta that can provide you with a complete low-cost funeral price….with no hidden extras!  And remember, all our providers are a family-owned funeral business, we do not work with death care corporations.    As you will see below, the funeral home in Atlanta we work with offers very inexpensive funeral and cremation packages.

Our provider of affordable cremations and funerals in Atlanta offers a basic cremation or burial package:

Direct Cremation $895  – – – Traditional Funeral $2,895 (Incl. casket)

Call (404) 739-4924 for immediate assistance, if you wish to preplan a funeral, or if you have any questions.

The $895 direct cremation package is available in the cities of Athens, Atlanta Metro, Columbus, Dalton & Gainesville and the counties of Fulton, Clayton, Fayette, Carroll, Paulding, Cobb, Douglas, Gwinnett, Rockdale, De Kalb, Walton, Henry, Newton, Oconee, Barrow, Cherokee, Forsyth, Harris, Talbot,  and Dawson.

Arranging an affordable cremation service in Alpharetta, GA – Just $895

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Want to know how to arrange a dignified funeral at an affordable cost? We have put together this guide to help you understand how you can save thousands by arranging a funeral.  In fact, you can arrange a simple, basic cremation for just $895!

 

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Alpharetta is $6,410, and this does not include cemetery costs, so it is understandable that many families today are looking to 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.

Why choose cremation services?

Cremation offers an inexpensive and flexible alternative to a burial service.  Choosing cremation services can save you 40% to 60% (or sometimes more) on the cost of traditional burial services.  This is because a casket is not required, or embalming (unless required) and there is no immediate need for a cemetery plot or burial vault.  Eliminating these just these few products and services saves thousands of dollars alone.

A cremation can offer a more flexible alternative that can accommodate families who have moved from their home state, or when a funeral cannot be held straight away.  Cremation also offers a greater range of personalization options with a whole array of ash-scattering ceremony possibilities, and various cremation artifact products.

What different cremation alternatives do I have?

You can choose between 3 main options for a cremation:

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.

A direct cremation – this is where the deceased is cremated with no services, and the remains given back to the family.  There are some variances around these 3 main options, such as a private viewing before cremation, an observed cremation, or a graveside interment of a cremation urn.

How much does a cremation cost in Alpharetta?

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 $3,465, depending upon the length of service held and what kind of casket you purchase or rent.  The average cost of a direct cremation is $1,726, although a direct cremation package can be conducted for just $795 with DFS Memorials.

Direct cremation services in Alpharetta, GA

If you are working to 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 or 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 Alpharetta on (770) 954-6424 who offers a complete direct cremation package for just $895.

How do I choose a cremation services provider?

This can sometimes be a daunting task when there are several funeral homes to choose between.  It may help to set yourself some clear criteria to help you select the provider that best suits your needs.  Which funeral services provider you select can be influenced by what facilities and services they offer, or what budget you have.

As we have highlighted, costs can vary quite significantly between funeral homes for the exact same service.  For this reason we would recommend you compare some costs before making a decision.

Comparing cremation costs in Alpharetta, GA

All funeral homes have a general price list (GPL) and this should itemize all services and charges.  Legally a funeral home must provide you with a copy of their GPL if you request cremation price information, either in person or by phone.

According to funeral price research surveys in Alpharetta, the average cost of a direct cremation is $1,726, although a direct cremation can be arranged for less than this with some cremation providers.  DFS Memorials offer a direct cremation service for $895.

The Neptune Society has a location in Atlanta and offer a direct cremation service for $1,962 (according to online funeral price website Parting).

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 $25.00 for the first certificate and $5 for each additional death certificate required.  You should also note that the county coroner may charge a fee if he is required to sign the death certificate.

What legally do I need to know about arranging a cremation in Alpharetta?

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.

In Georgia there is a mandatory 24-hour wait period after death before the cremation can proceed. Before a cremation can go ahead 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 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.  Advance planning can help to ensure you get the most appropriate services provider for your needs, and can save surviving family the financial and emotional burden at the time of death.  There are various options open to you to plan ahead so consult with your preferred services provider.  A pre-arranged direct cremation plan can be preplanned at a low cost to ensure your family do not have the burden about worrying about funeral costs.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

As I mentioned earlier there is a versatility on what you can do with cremated remains.  You can inter a cremation urn in a cemetery plot or niche, keep an urn at home, scatter the remains or create a cremation artifact such as a cremation diamond, glass paperweight, bird bath or memorial reef ball to name but a few!

The deceased had no life insurance – is there any help with cremation costs?

Sadly there is little financial aid that supports those families that find themselves struggling with funeral costs.  Most counties do have a budget for indigent funerals but this is generally for those individuals who truly are indigent.  Some counties do have limited funds to help low-income families with cremation costs but this can vary county by county.  You would need to make inquiries with Fulton County Human Services Department at 115 M.L.K. Jr Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA to find out if any assistance is available to you.  In these cases often the most basic of funeral services will be supported, with limited control over what happens.  A low cost direct cremation from DFS Memorials can be arranged for $895.

What is “no-cost cremation”?

Some funeral homes now offer this option in Alpharetta.  This is referring to whole body donation whereby after the donation is complete the remains are cremated (free of charge) and then returned to the family or scattered.   Generally funeral homes can get a referral fee from the whole body donation organization, plus they sometimes charge a transportation fee.  So all-in-all they do still recoup their costs.  As we all know, there really is nothing that is truly free!

How do I obtain a copy of a death certificate?

You can obtain copies of a death certificate from the Vital Records office at: Fulton County Government Center 141 Pryor St SW, Suite 1029A · Atlanta, GA 30303 Phone: (404) 679-4702

What happens if the deceased is taken to the Coroner’s Office?

If there were circumstances surrounding the death that led to the deceased being taken to the County Coroner’s office, you will need to employ the services of a funeral director as soon as possible to liaise with the Coroner to have the body released into their care.  Only a licensed funeral director can collect a body from the Coroner’s morgue.

Fulton County Medical Examiner, 430 Pryor Street SW, Atlanta, Georgia 30312

Hopefully this short guide to arranging an affordable cremation service in Alpharetta has answered some of your questions, and helped you understand how to save costs on a cremation.  If you would like to read more extensively about cremation planning, please visit the library section on US Funerals Online.

*Prices obtained from online funeral price comparison survey 2020

What does a cremation cost in Denver, CO?

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Do you need to arrange an immediate cremation, or wish to preplan a simple, low-cost cremation – but want to find out what Denver cremation costs to expect?  The price for cremation can vary depending upon which cremation services provider you select in Denver, and what type of cremation service you opt for.

Cremation prices: what average cremation costs to expect

It will probably come as no surprise when I state that the cost of a cremation can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand.  Every funeral home in Denver should have a general price list (GPL) and be prepared to disclose this with you when you make an inquiry.  Their GPL should provide an itemized breakdown of their service charges and merchandise prices.  Many funeral homes will also offer special cremation packages, where they offer an inclusive package of services from their GPL.  This can sometimes make it easier to arrange cremation services without running up a large funeral bill!

Funeral expenses are generally made up of components from the GPL.  There is a professional service fee (for the services of the funeral director and which generally includes a proportion of their overhead), fees for using the facilities, preparation of the body (cosmetology/embalming), transportation, memorial items (guest book/prayer items) and then additional ‘cash advance’ items which are payable to a third party and include such as permits, death certificates, obituaries, and flowers.

Different types of cremation packages 

Because there are so many variations of cremation services and packages, it can be quite difficult to quote general costs.  There are typically 3 main types of cremation services:

  • A basic cremation with no services – often referred to as a simple cremation
  • A full-service cremation – with a traditional funeral ceremony
  • A cremation memorial service – the cremation is performed and a service held later with or without the cremated remains present

A basic cremation can start at around $999, whereas a full-service cremation may cost in the region of $3,000.  According to the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) the average cost of a cremation is $2,250.

funeral-costs-denverWhat is the lowest cost of cremation in Denver?

The lowest cost cremation option is a direct cremation, sometimes called an immediate cremation.   A direct cremation is the industry term for a basic cremation with minimal services.

To save on costs you could even opt for a direct cremation and hold your own memorial at home or a place of your choosing.

Understanding cremation laws in Denver

Funeral homes that operate a crematory have to adhere to a strict protocol that governs the cremation of human remains.  Before cremation can proceed, the next of kin must sign the cremation authorization form, and the deceased must be identified.  Throughout all steps of the cremation, procedure checks are in place to ensure the remains are identified.  A casket is not required for cremation, the law requires that just a rigid cremation container is required, and this can generally be a rigid cardboard container. There is usually a mandatory waiting period of between 24-48 hours before a cremation can be performed.

Comparing cremation prices in Denver

Because the cost of cremation services in Denver can differ so much, it is recommended that you do shop around and compare prices. However, it is important to ensure that you do compare like for like cremation services.  If a provider has a cremation package – check exactly what is included.  In some cases, a simple cremation package may appear cheap but may have some hidden costs.  Check that the cremation container is included and not an additional cost.  Also be aware that cash advances, such as the death certificate and cremation permit, may be added to a package price, although some providers do include them.

Our $999 direct cremation package includes a choice of cremation urn from our selection of 25 urns.

Affordable Cremation Choices in Albany, NY $895

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We are all now demanding affordability and “best value” in our consumer choices, and death care is no different.

It is not acceptable to be paying more for services and products than we should be.  DFS Memorials understand this and can offer low-cost funeral alternatives to the residents of Albany, Amsterdam. Cohoes and Troy.

What is a direct cremation?

A direct cremation is an affordable  ‘no fuss’ funeral alternative. The deceased is collected from the place of death and transported into the funeral home’s care.  All paperwork and permits are processed, and then the cremation is conducted. The cremated remains are then returned to the family.

How much does a direct cremation cost in Albany?

The cost of a direct cremation can vary.  It varies between funeral service providers, so it is generally wise to shop around some.  At DFS, we did price survey research to locate an affordable cremation provider, and in partnership with an independent funeral director in Albany, we bring you a low-cost direct cremation service for just $895.

Are there additional fees?

Yes, third-party fees are charged on top of the $895 as these are fees paid directly to the county.  Death certificates are charged at $15.00 each. [Veterans qualify for 3 free copies.]

In New York, a funeral home cannot own and operate a crematory.  Therefore, the crematory fee is an additional fee charged by all funeral homes.  The crematory fee is usually around $300 (depending on crematory available and location.)

There may also be a small fee for a cremation permit.

Roy Bordeau believes in simplicity and choice. Call him on (518) 205-3636  to find out more about how he can help save your family money on your funeral care.  He is available 24 hours a day to answer your questions.

We offer a basic direct cremation package for $895.

“Respectful Of Your Needs, Mindful Of Your Budget”

 

Cremation costs: How can I save money arranging a funeral in Phoenix, AZ?

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The cost of dying these days is becoming as much of a concern as the cost of living!  Funerals can end up costing thousands of dollars of money we don’t have, or simply do not want to spend on death care.   With traditionalism in decline and families seeking alternative funeral options, especially those driven by cost, this article aims to help you understand some options that you have to save money when arranging a funeral or cremation in Phoenix.

How much does a funeral cost in Phoenix?

All funerals are NOT created equal! Yes, believe it or not, funeral prices differ dramatically and you can end up completely confused by the array of prices and services! Funeral costs in Phoenix vary significantly, depending upon the funeral provider you select, and the type of services you opt for.  The average cost of a funeral is around $9,000 (according to the National Funeral Directors Association 2019).  This is for a typical burial service including a viewing, ceremony, all associated professional services, and a standard casket.  This does not include any cemetery fees or cash advance items. 

However, it is possible to arrange a traditional burial for half this cost by selecting a provider who offers more affordable funeral alternatives.  A complete traditional funeral can be conducted in Phoenix for $2,265 (not including cemetery costs).  Immediately this means that you can save thousands just by shopping around and choosing a more affordable funeral home in Phoenix.

All funeral homes in Phoenix have a General Price List (GPL) that discloses all their services and itemized funeral prices.  By law, they must disclose prices to you, either in person or by phone, although you may find that not all funeral homes are willing to do so.  If a funeral provider is not open about disclosing prices when you make an initial inquiry – it should ring alarm bells!!

phoenix-cremation-servicesCremation: the low-cost funeral option.

If you wish to save money arranging a funeral – consider cremation.  Cremation is fast becoming a preferred choice for many families.  There are various reasons why we are now choosing cremation as a disposition option, but by far the most common reason is the cost!  A cremation will cost you a fraction of the cost of a traditional burial.  In fact, in Phoenix, typically you can save up to 75% of what it would cost you for a traditional burial funeral.  Cremation removes the need for cemetery expenses, as well as the need for embalming and a casket.  It can also offer families more time to prepare a memorial service.  Instead of having to proceed with a funeral, a cremation can go ahead and a memorial service arranged at a later date with the cremation urn present.  This can be another way to save money and also make the tribute so much more personal.

What is the average cost of a cremation in Phoenix?

According to the Cremation Association of North America CANA, the average cost of a cremation is $2,250.  This is, of course, a national average cost, and the average cost of cremation also depends, not only upon where you live but also exactly what services are included with any cremation package.

As mentioned above, prices do vary so much between funeral homes, and this applies to cremation providers as well.  A simple cremation can cost anywhere between just over $700 to Almost $3,000 – depending on where you go.

How to arrange a low-cost cremation in Phoenix, AZ?

If you are worried about funeral costs then a simple cremation service is the lowest cost cremation option.  It offers a simple and affordable solution for families seeking to arrange a disposition on a budget.  A direct cremation is a term used by a funeral home to refer to their basic cremation service.  This is a cremation without any services.  The deceased is collected, prepared for cremation, all the necessary documentation is completed, and the cremation proceeds.  A basic cremation container is used and the ashes are generally returned in a temporary box.  You can, if you so choose, purchase a cremation urn from the funeral home.  You can arrange a direct cremation in Phoenix for just $725 complete.

Comparing cremation costs in Phoenix

Cremation prices do vary by provider, even within Phoenix, so it is important to shop around and compare cremation prices between funeral homes today to ensure that you have obtained the best price cremation possible.  Telephoning around, or conducting online research on cremation pricing can be time-consuming and quite an overwhelming task.  That is why we have conducted our own cremation cost research so you don’t have to!  The provider we work within Phoenix offers an exceptional value cremation package.

The DFS Memorials provider offers a direct cremation for $725, a direct burial for $795

and a complete traditional funeral for just $3,495 

Call (602) 638-1151    –    Providing affordable funeral options for families in Phoenix.

The chart below includes a sample of some of the low prices for a direct cremation in Phoenix.  As you can see there are affordable cremation providers in Phoenix who can offer a direct cremation for under $1,000.

Disclaimer: This cremation cost information was obtained from providers in July 2020. Prices are posted to help families make informed decisions. However, periodically providers change their prices. We make every effort to ensure the prices are accurate, but prices must be verified directly with the listed funeral home.

Direct cremation services in Phoenix

As mentioned a direct cremation is the lowest cost cremation option.  Most funeral homes offer a direct cremation on the General Price List (GPL).  It is a simple process that manages the ‘mechanics’ of the disposition.  With the cremated remains returned the family can then arrange to conduct the memorialization aspect of the funeral.  This enables the family to ensure that their loved one’s disposition is handled in a simple, dignified, and timely way, whilst not overspending on funeral costs.  The family can gather for a memorial service at a later date if they so choose, or arrange a simple ash scattering ceremony.

I cannot afford a funeral: Is there any help with funeral costs in Phoenix?

Sadly more and more families are finding themselves struggling to meet funeral expenses today.  Any financial assistance with funeral or cremation costs is managed at the county level and the funding varies by state/county.  To find out what may be available near you, and if you qualify, contact your Local County human or social services.  They can advise you what help is available and whether or not you are eligible to claim.

There is also the $255 Social Security death benefit if you qualify and certain benefits for veterans.  Other than that, you can try local charitable organizations, unions, and faith groups who may be able to assist you in raising funds for a funeral.

Serving families in Maricopa County, Arcadia, Biltmore, Central Ave, Copper Square, Desert Ridge, East Side, Golden Gate Barrio, Maryvale, Maryvale Village, North Phoenix, Northwest Phoenix, South Phoenix, & Southwest Phoenix

How to arrange direct Cremation Services in Avondale, AZ – $725

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The shift to cremation is sweeping across the nation as families demand more affordable death care alternatives.

Cremation is now fast becoming a disposition choice for many families in Arizona.  For those families who do not want to overspend on a funeral, or simply do not have the funds for a costly funeral, cremation is a low-cost alternative.

What is the average cost of a funeral in Avondale?

These days we are discerning consumers, very mindful of costs, and people now feel the same way about purchasing funeral services.  Why should we not ask how much it costs?  The average cost of a traditional funeral in Avondale is $5,825*, although the lowest price is $4,945.

So how do cremation costs compare in Avondale?

Cremation offers a cheaper and more flexible alternative to a traditional burial, and can therefore significantly reduce funeral costs.

No casket, cemetery plot or burial vault is required, immediately reducing some of the most expensive purchases related to funeral expenses.

The average price for a cremation funeral service in Avondale is $2,915*.

Direct cremation services in Avondale, AZ

A direct cremation is the industry term for a ‘simple cremation’.  Only the cremation service is provided by the funeral home.  No ceremony or funeral services are provided by the funeral home.  The deceased is collected, cremated and the remains returned to the family in a basic urn.

Direct cremation offers families lower-cost funeral services and more control over the time and type of memorial ceremonial services they desire.  A memorial service can be held in a place of worship, a community venue, or even outdoors.  The service can be conducted with, or without, the cremation urn present, and can even take the form of an ash-scattering ceremony or interment in a cremation niche or scattering garden.

A basic direct cremation is available in Avondale for $725, although the average price for a direct cremation is $1,375.   To help families arrange affordable cremation services we have selected only family-owned cremation services providers who can offer a basic cremation package for just $725.

Direct cremation means a family can manage to conduct dignified funeral services for as little as $725.

Call now on (602) 638-1151 now to arrange a low-cost cremation

Cremation costs in avondaleAre there are additional fees to the $725 cremation package?

In order for a cremation to be conducted a ‘disposition permit’ must be issued by the county.  At present, there is no charge for this.  Death certificates are an additional cost, as these are issued by the county, and are a third-party expense.  Death certificates cost $20 for the first certificate and $20 for each additional copy issued.

How do I know that I am getting the remains of my loved one back?

This is one of the most frequent questions families ask about cremation.  Strict laws govern the cremation of human remains and identity checks must be made all along the way.  The cremation retort must be completely cleared following a cremation and only one cremation can be performed at a time.  The remains are cleared into a machine that filters out any metal parts (tooth fillings, hip replacements) and then ground into the fine ‘dust’ that is returned as cremation ashes.

What if I am not sure about cremation or the family cannot agree about cremation?

Cremation is such a final disposition, you do need to ensure that you are completely sure that this IS the ‘right’ disposition choice for you.  Certain laws are in place to ensure this final disposition can only proceed if the legal next of kin has authorized it.  A Cremation Authorization Form must be signed by the legal next of kin, and in the case of children, many funeral directors will require all children sign.

You can authorize an agent for your final disposition or sign the authorization when you preplan a cremation.

What can you do with the cremated remains?

The options of what you can do with the cremated remains of your loved one are one of the reasons cremation is becoming more popular.  You can, of course, just choose to inter the remains in a cemetery plot. You can inter the remains in a niche or columbarium, or you can keep the ashes at home.  Keepsake urns even enable you to disperse the ashes between several family members or choose to scatter some and retain a ‘keepsake’ memorial.

Ash scattering is also more common these days and there are many options for how you can create a befitting ash scattering ceremony.

Cremation planCan I preplan a direct cremation at an affordable cost?

Yes.  You can preplan a simple direct cremation service.  This is generally funded through an insurance product that will cover this cost when the need arises.  All monies are secured in a trust fund.

How quickly can a cremation be performed?

It generally takes a few days to make the necessary arrangements, complete all the legal paperwork, and schedule the cremation.  However, expedited services can be arranged if required.  In Arizona, there is a mandatory 24 hour wait period after death before a cremation can be conducted.

What do I do if I cannot even afford a cremation?

There is very little ‘free’ money to help families with funeral costs.   What is available is constantly changing due to budget constraints, and varies by county.  Some counties do have a provision to assist needy or low-income families.  Contact Maricopa county DFCS to find out what may be available to you locally.

Maricopa County DFCS, 234 N. Central Ave. 3rd Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85004 Phone: (602) 506-5911

There is also a $255 lump-sum social security death benefit payment if the deceased qualifies, and your funeral director can help you claim this.  So you may find that a low-cost cremation at $725 with DFS Memorials is a dignified, yet affordable, disposition alternative if your family is struggling financially.

What is the service area around Avondale?

The $725 direct cremation package is available throughout all of the Greater Avondale and surrounding areas.

If you have further questions about cremation, feel free to call us on (602) 638-1151 and we will be happy to try and help you.

*Funeral prices obtained from online funeral price survey website 2020

Cremation Services in Bolingbrook, IL

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Cremation is changing the way we think about funerals.  More than half of American funerals are now conducted as cremations.

If you are researching cremation costs to consider preplanning your wishes or have an immediate need for cremation services, this article can provide you with some information on what costs to expect for cremation services.

Our changing attitudes towards death care

Deciding whether to bury or cremate is a personal choice.  For some families, the decision is dictated by the budget they have for a funeral and a cremation service will cost less than a traditional burial funeral.  On average a cremation service is going to save you at least 40% on the cost of a burial, sometimes you can save as much as 60% on the cost of a burial service.  More families are choosing cremation as it does offer greater flexibility. The funeral service does not have to go ahead immediately.  Instead, a cremation can be performed and the immediate disposition of the body dealt with, and then a service held at a later date convenient to the family.

The economy has definitely impacted how we are changing our approach to death care today.  Many families simply cannot, or do not, want to spend unnecessarily on funeral costs. A cremation provides a simple, efficient, and economical means to conduct a disposition.

How much does a cremation cost in Bolingbrook?

Firstly, a cremation WILL save you on funeral costs.  There is no requirement for a casket, cemetery plot, or burial vault, which alone saves thousands of dollars.  Generally, embalming is not required when a cremation is performed, so all-in-all you can save on many funeral expenses, meaning that a cremation will cost at least half, if not less, than the full cost of a burial funeral.

The average cost for a cremation is around $3,000, but a cremation can be arranged for as little as $1,165.

It is important to state that cremation prices in Bolingbrook DO vary quite considerably between funeral homes, and depending on what type of cremation service you opt for.  Not all funeral homes have their own crematory but will use the services of a local crematory.

How much is a direct cremation in Bolingbrook, IL?

A simple cremation can be conducted in Bolingbrook for $1,165 complete.  This is what is known as a “direct cremation”.  No services are performed, the deceased is collected, transported to the funeral facility, prepared for cremation and the cremation is conducted.  The cremated remains are returned to the family in a temporary plastic urn.  If desired the family can arrange a brief final goodbye viewing at the funeral home.

Call DFS Memorials now on (815) 216-4601 to arrange a low-cost cremation for $1,165

What type of cremation services are available?

You can select from a range of cremation services and packages.  These will start with a basic cremation without any additional services, which is the cheapest type of cremation package.  You can have a full-service funeral that is followed by the cremation, a cremation followed by a memorial service, or just a viewing followed by a cremation.  Cremation does offer versatility in what options you have, and when and where any services can be held.

Cremation planningHow to compare cremation costs in Bolingbrook, IL

As mentioned the cost of a cremation can vary enormously – for the exact same service – but from different cremation service providers.   Ensure that you compare like-for-like services.  Some cremation service providers include crematory fees and cremation container costs in a direct cremation package, and others do not always include these fees.  Death certificate fees and cremation permits are often additional ‘cash advance’ items.

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Illinois

As mentioned above, there are laws in place regarding the cremation of human remains. A cremation cannot be performed until a cremation permit is issued by the medical examiner’s office.  The legal next of kin must sign a Cremation Authorization Form.  There is a mandatory wait period of 24 hours after death in Illinois before the cremation can proceed.

It is not necessary to embalm a body for cremation and refrigerated storage is used to preserve the body until the cremation is performed.  The funeral home will generally store the body for up to 5 days in refrigerated storage at no extra charge.  If the cremation does not go ahead within 5 days, an additional fee for storage may be incurred.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

Cremation offers some greater flexibility in what you can do with the cremated remains once you have them returned.  You can, of course, inter them in a grave plot or niche.  However, you can choose to store them in an urn at home or scatter the cremated remains.  There are also options such as having cremation artifacts made from cremated remains such as cremation diamonds, glass jewelry, birdbaths, and paintings. Visit our Memorialization section to find out more.

cremation costsPreplanning an affordable cremation service

If you wish to preplan a simple cremation you can lock in a low-cost cremation price. This may depend upon your age at the time of setting up a prepaid cremation plan.  A cremation plan can be set up using an insurance policy where the funds are put into a trust.  You can also opt to preplan your cremation service without prepaying.  This ensures that your surviving family can proceed with arrangements at the time of need, without having to worry about completing the paperwork or making difficult decisions.  The money to pay for the cremation can be put aside in a POD account (Payable on Death) which your beneficiary can draw out upon death immediately without probate.

The deceased had no life insurance – is there any help with cremation costs?

It is sadly a reality that more folks are passing without leaving the means to pay for their funeral.  If you are faced with this situation, you need to explore what help may be available to you.  Social Security payout a $255 lump sum death benefit (if you qualify) and your funeral director can assist you with this.

The support for indigent burials differs so much by state and county. Some counties do offer some financial assistance to low-income families, whereas in other counties only county indigent dispositions are conducted.  To find out what may be available you should contact Will County Human Services Department at:

302 N. Chicago St. Joliet, IL  60432 (815) 774-7489

The deceased is at the Medical Examiner’s Office.  What do I do?

If the deceased was the victim of a crime, or there were unusual circumstances surrounding the death, the deceased’s body may be taken into the care of the coroner for an examination to determine the cause of death.  You will need to employ the services of a funeral director as soon as possible to coordinate the release of your loved one from the ME’s office.

A deceased person can only be released into the care of a licensed funeral director. Many funeral homes are familiar with the process to liaise with the ME to have the body released as quickly as possible.  You may also find that a simple, direct cremation can be arranged at a very low cost when the deceased is in the Coroner’s morgue as all the paperwork can be expedited quickly and the process to transfer the deceased to the funeral facility is simplified.

Address of county coroner’s office: Will County Medical Examiner 158 N Scott St, Joliet, IL 60432

We hope this short guide has helped answer some of your immediate questions and provided some help in understanding how you can arrange an affordable funeral or cremation service in Bolingbrook, IL.  If you need to research more information on funeral-planning, please visit the Library section on US Funerals Online.

Arranging an affordable cremation service in Mesa, AZ – Just $725

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Cremation offers a much more affordable funeral alternative.  Indeed, you can arrange a simple, basic cremation service for just $725! 

The information in this article should help you understand how arranging a cremation can save you money on funeral costs, and what to expect for average cremation costs.

What you also need to consider is what kind of cremation service you want.  Whereas you can arrange a full funeral cremation service with a funeral home, the much more inexpensive option is to arrange a direct cremation and conduct your own memorial service.

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Mesa is $5,821*, and this does not include cemetery costs, so it is understandable that many families today are looking to 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.

Why choose cremation services?

Cremation offers an inexpensive and flexible alternative to a burial service.  Choosing cremation services can save you 40% to 60% (or sometimes more) on the cost of traditional burial services.  The need for a casket, cemetery plot and burial vault is eliminated…thus saving greatly on overall costs!

A cremation can offer a more flexible alternative that can accommodate families who have moved from their home state, or when a funeral cannot be held straight away.  Cremation also offers a greater range of personalization options with a whole array of ash-scattering ceremony possibilities, and various cremation artifact products.

What different cremation alternatives do I have?

There are 3 main types of cremation service options.  Firstly, a Cremation Funeral – this is largely the same as a full-service funeral except the deceased is cremated after the funeral instead of a burial.  Secondly, you can opt for a Cremation Memorial – in this option the deceased is first cremated, and then a memorial service conducted by the funeral services provider, with the cremation ashes present.  Thirdly, there is a Direct Cremation – in this case, there are no services or ceremonies provided by the funeral home.  The deceased is cremated and the cremation ashes returned directly 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.

How much does a cremation cost in Mesa?

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 $2,880, depending upon the length of service held and what kind of casket you purchase or rent.  The average cost of a direct cremation is $1,232*, although a direct cremation package can be conducted for just $725 with DFS Memorials.

direct cremation mesaDirect cremation services in Mesa, AZ

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 or 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 Mesa on (602) 638-1151 who offers a complete direct cremation package for just $725.

How do I choose a cremation services provider?

This can sometimes be a daunting task when there are several funeral homes to choose between.  It may help to set yourself some clear criteria to help you select the provider that best suits your needs.  Which funeral services provider you select can be influenced by what facilities and services they offer, or what budget you have.

As we have highlighted, costs can vary quite significantly between funeral homes for the exact same service.  For this reason, we would recommend you compare some costs before making a decision.

Comparing cremation costs in Mesa, AZ

All funeral homes have a general price list (GPL) and this should itemize all services and charges.  Legally a funeral home must provide you with a copy of their GPL if you request cremation price information, either in person or by phone.

According to funeral price research surveys in Mesa, the average cost of a direct cremation is $1,232, although a direct cremation can be arranged for less than this with some cremation providers.  DFS Memorials offer a direct cremation service for $725.

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 $20.00 for the first certificate and $20 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.

cremation laws ArizonaWhat legally do I need to know about arranging a cremation in Mesa?

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.

There is a mandatory 24-hour wait period after death before the cremation can proceed. Before a cremation can go ahead 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 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.  Advance planning can help to ensure you get the most appropriate services provider for your needs and can save the surviving family the financial and emotional burden at the time of death.  There are various options open to you to plan ahead so consult with your preferred services provider.  A pre-arranged direct cremation plan can be preplanned at a low cost to ensure your family does not have the burden of worrying about funeral costs.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

As I mentioned earlier there is a versatility on what you can do with cremated remains.  You can inter a cremation urn in a cemetery plot or niche, keep an urn at home, scatter the remains or create a cremation artifact such as a cremation diamond, glass paperweight, bird bath or memorial reef ball to name but a few!

making-funeral-plansThe deceased had no life insurance – is there any help with cremation costs?

Sadly there is little financial aid that supports those families that find themselves struggling with funeral costs.  Most counties do have a budget for indigent funerals but this is generally for those individuals who truly are indigent.  Some counties do have limited funds to help low-income families with cremation costs but this can vary county by county.  You would need to make inquiries with the Maricopa County Human Services Department at 234 N. Central Ave. 3rd Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85004 Phone: (602) 506-5911 to find out if any assistance is available to you.  In these cases often the most basic of funeral services will be supported, with limited control over what happens.  A low-cost direct cremation from DFS Memorials can be arranged for $725.

What is “no-cost cremation”?

Some funeral homes now offer this option in Mesa.  This is referring to whole body donation whereby after the donation is complete the remains are cremated (free of charge) and then returned to the family or scattered.   Generally, funeral homes can get a referral fee from the whole body donation organization, plus they sometimes charge a transportation fee.  So all-in-all they do still recoup their costs.  As we all know, there really is nothing that is truly free!

How do I obtain a copy of a death certificate?

You can obtain copies of a death certificate from the Vital Records office at 4419 E Main St, Mesa, AZ 85205

What happens if the deceased is taken to the Coroner’s Office?

If there were circumstances surrounding the death that led to the deceased being taken to the County Coroner’s office, you will need to employ the services of a funeral director as soon as possible to liaise with the Coroner to have the body released into their care.  Only a licensed funeral director can collect a body from the Coroner’s morgue.

Maricopa County Coroner & Forensic Science Center, 701 W Jefferson Street, Pheonix, AZ 85007 Phone: (602) 505-3322

We hope this short guide to arranging an affordable cremation service in Mesa has answered some of your questions and helped you understand how to save costs on a cremation.  If you would like to read more extensively about cremation planning, please visit the library section on US Funerals Online.

*Prices obtained from online funeral price comparison survey December 2019.

Guide to affordable Cremation Services in Surprise, AZ

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Do you need to save money on funeral costs?  Looking for a simple and inexpensive alternative to a traditional funeral service?

Consider arranging a simple cremation service for $725.  More families are opting to conduct a simple, no-fuss direct cremation and then perform their own memorial service at a venue of their choosing.  This all saves thousands of dollars on funeral expenses!

How funeral care is changing and economic reasons for choosing cremation

Deciding whether to bury or cremate is a personal choice.  For some families, the decision is dictated by the budget they have for a funeral and a cremation service will cost less than a traditional burial funeral.  On average a cremation service is going to save you at least 40% on the cost of a burial, sometimes you can save as much as 60% on the cost of a burial service.  More families are choosing cremation as it does offer greater flexibility. The funeral service does not have to go ahead immediately.  Instead, a cremation can be performed and the immediate disposition of the body dealt with, and then a service held at a later date convenient to the family.

The economy has definitely impacted on how we are changing our approach to death care today.  Many families simply cannot, or do not, want to spend unnecessarily on funeral costs.  A cremation provides a simple, efficient, and economical means to conduct a disposition.

How much does a funeral cost in Surprise?

This is not a simple question to answer as funeral costs can range significantly depending on the type of services and products selected, and the funeral services provider used.  The average cost of a funeral in Surprise is $6,355*.

How much does a cremation cost in Surprise?

Firstly, a cremation WILL save you on funeral costs.  There is no requirement for a casket, cemetery plot or burial vault, which alone saves thousands of dollars.  Generally, embalming is not required when a cremation is performed, so all-in-all you can save on many funeral expenses, meaning that a cremation will cost at least half, if not less, than the full cost of a burial funeral.

It is important to state that cremation prices in Surprise DO vary quite considerably between funeral homes, and depending on what type of cremation service you opt for.  Not all funeral homes have their own crematory but will use the services of a local crematory.  The average cost of a cremation memorial is $3,210*, however, it is possible to find much lower-priced cremation services in Surprise.

How much is a direct cremation in Surprise, AZ?

A basic cremation can be conducted in Surprise for as little as $725 complete.  This is what is known as a “direct cremation”.  No services are performed, the deceased is collected, transported to the funeral facility, prepared for cremation and the cremation is conducted.  The cremated remains are returned to the family in a temporary plastic urn.  If desired the family can arrange a brief final goodbye viewing at the funeral home.

Call DFS Memorials now on (602) 638-1151 to arrange a low-cost cremation for $725

What type of cremation services are available?

You can select from a range of cremation services and packages.  These will start with a basic cremation without any additional services, which is the cheapest type of cremation package.  You can have a full-service funeral that is followed by the cremation, a cremation followed by a memorial service, or just a viewing followed by a cremation.  Cremation does offer versatility in what options you have, and when and where any services can be held.

How to compare cremation costs in Surprise, AZ

As mentioned the cost of a cremation can vary enormously – for the exact same service – but from different cremation service providers.   Ensure that you compare like-for-like services.  Some cremation service providers include crematory fees and cremation container costs in a direct cremation package, and others do not always include these fees.  Death certificate fees and cremation permits are often additional ‘cash advance’ items.

How do I know that the cremated remains I get back are my loved one’s remains?

This is probably the most common cremation question we are asked.  Strict laws govern the cremation of human remains and identity checks have to be made along the way.  The cremation retort has to be completely cleared following a cremation and only one cremation can be performed at a time.  The remains are cleared into a machine that filters out any metal parts (tooth fillings, hip replacements, etc) and then ground into the fine ‘dust’ that is returned as cremation ashes.

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Surprise

As mentioned above, there are laws in place regarding the cremation of human remains.  A cremation cannot be performed until a cremation permit is issued by the medical examiner’s office.  The legal next of kin must sign a Cremation Authorization Form.  There is a mandatory wait period of 24 after death in Arizona before the cremation can proceed.

It is not necessary to embalm a body for cremation and refrigerated storage is used to preserve the body until the cremation is performed.  The funeral home will generally store the body for up to 5 days in refrigerated storage at no extra charge.  If the cremation does not go ahead within 5 days, an additional fee for storage may be incurred.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

Cremation offers some greater flexibility in what you can do with the cremated remains once you have them returned.  You can, of course, inter them in a grave plot or niche.  However, you can choose to store them in an urn at home or scatter the cremated remains.  There are also options such as having cremation artifacts made from cremated remains such as cremation diamonds, glass jewelry, stone benches, and paintings.

Preplanning an affordable cremation service

If you wish to preplan a simple cremation you can lock in a low-cost cremation price.  This may depend upon your age at the time of setting up a prepaid cremation plan.  A cremation plan can be set up using an insurance policy where the funds are put into a trust.  You can also opt to preplan your cremation service without prepaying.  This ensures that your surviving family can proceed with arrangements at the time of need, without having to worry about completing the paperwork or making difficult decisions.  The money to pay for the cremation can be put aside in a POD account (Payable on Death) which your beneficiary can draw out upon death immediately without probate.

The deceased had no life insurance – is there any help with cremation costs?

It is sadly a reality that more folks are passing without leaving the means to pay for their funeral.  If you are faced with this situation, you need to explore what help may be available to you.  Social Security payout a $255 lump sum death benefit (if you qualify) and your funeral director can assist you with this.

The support for indigent burials differs so much by state and county. Some counties do offer some financial assistance to low-income families, whereas in other counties only county indigent dispositions are conducted.  To find out what may be available you should contact Maricopa County Human Services Department at:

234 N. Central Ave. 3rd Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85004 Phone: (602) 506-5911

The deceased is at the Medical Examiner’s Office.  What do I do?

If the deceased was the victim of a crime, or there were unusual circumstances surrounding the death, the deceased’s body may be taken into the care of the coroner for an examination to determine the cause of death.  You will need to employ the services of a funeral director as soon as possible to coordinate the release of your loved one from the ME’s office.

A deceased person can only be released into the care of a licensed funeral director.  Many funeral homes are familiar with the process to liaise with the ME to have the body released as quickly as possible.  You may also find that a simple, direct cremation can be arranged at a very low cost when the deceased is in the Coroner’s morgue as all the paperwork can be expedited quickly and the process to transfer the deceased to the funeral facility is simplified.

Address of Maricopa county coroner’s office: 701 W Jefferson Street, Pheonix, AZ 85007 Phone: (602) 505-3322

We hope this short guide has helped answer some of your immediate questions and provided some help in understanding how you can arrange an affordable funeral or cremation service in Surprise, AZ.  If you need to research more information on funeral-planning, please visit the Library section on US Funerals Online.

*Funeral prices obtained from Parting funeral price comparison survey 2020