Online Cremation Arrangements or Pre-planning online

Posted on March 27, 2022 by Sara Marsden

“If someone had told me 10 years ago that a family would make online cremation arrangements for a funeral without ever visiting my funeral home, I would have said they were crazy!” stated Vincent, the DFS Memorials funeral director for New York during a recent conversation we had.

A fourth-generation funeral director he has witnessed a significant change in the industry over the last decade, and now embraces how the Internet is revolutionizing what he, and his family, has known as a traditional business for generations.

He is one of a number of more progressive funeral professionals who recognize how embracing and utilizing technology can help them be on the cusp of great change within death care in the U.S.

The COVID pandemic further pushed the funeral industry to adapt to change. A change in technology, and being able to offer online cremation arrangements, and remote document signatures. The pandemic also gave the cremation rate a driver. Many families had no choice but to arrange a cremation to take care of a family member’s immediate disposition.

The Rise of Online Funeral Arrangement

There is no doubt, nor room for debate, that we have become a culture of online consumers. According to a study by BIA/Kelsey 97% of consumers now use some form of online media to research products and services, and it is widely accepted that with smartphones and tablets, we are all much more intuitive to that ‘instant gratification’ of information….wherever we are! Whilst 93% of the U.S. population is now online, a study by Pew in 2021 reported that 85% of U.S. adults now own a smartphone, whilst 53% own a tablet. This clearly demonstrates that our access to online technology significantly positions the majority of us to make purchase decisions online.

A few years ago the notion of Online Funerals was often synonymous with the notion of webcast funerals – the live streaming of a funeral service over the web. Today online funerals take on a whole new meaning as families can conduct all arrangements for a funeral without ever needing to visit a funeral home.

Why Arrange a Cremation Online?

The cremation trend can be seen as attributable to this rise in making funeral arrangements online. Cremation has brought about a more simplistic and flexible approach to a funeral. We often hear people (especially the Baby Boomer generation) say “I just want a simple cremation”. Opting for cremation as a simple, no-fuss disposition means that it can be easily facilitated by making arrangements with the funeral home or crematory either online or by phone.

One of the fastest-growing sectors of cremation is direct cremation. This is a basic cremation with no services. As no services are held, and an immediate cremation is performed after any mandatory period has elapsed, those families opting for a direct cremation often feel there is little value in visiting the funeral home.

Keep funeral costs down: Stay in Charge of the funeral decision-making process!

In many cases, the family has opted for the lowest cost cremation because they could not afford anything else, and the last thing they want is to enter a funeral home and feel uncomfortable asking for low-cost services! Being able to make all the arrangements online can alleviate them from the human emotional aspect of dealing with a funeral salesperson.

Many funeral homes that offer online cremation arrangements offer very simplistic interfaces that enable the family to make their choices from clearly marked selections – be it choosing a cremation package, selecting an urn, or posting an obituary. The simple online arrangement option means that you can calmly and more objectively work through the arrangement details and make decisions from the comfort of your own home.

Read our post on What happens during the cremation process? From the Funeral Home receiving the deceased for a cremation to giving the family the cremated remains to understand more about the whole cremation process.

3 Simple Steps to Arranging a Cremation Online

It can be as easy as 1-2-3! Those funeral homes that offer online cremation arrangements generally have a completely automated system that requires you to follow the steps required to complete the arrangement process.

#1 You need to submit the necessary personal information about the deceased in order that the funeral home can obtain the death certificate, notify social security and obtain the necessary authorization and permits to conduct the cremation.

#2 Secondly, you will be asked to complete a ‘Cremation Authorization Form’. This must be completed by the legal next of kin, and the person thereby authorized to make funeral arrangements.

#3 Finally, you will need to make a selection of what kind of cremation package you require and any cremation merchandise you require, such as cremation urns or any additional copies of death certificates.

Generally, once you have completed the online forms and submitted the information, a funeral director will contact you to finalize the arrangements and complete the payment process. The whole online process should take no longer than about 20 minutes to complete. Payment can be made by credit card, or by sending in a check or money order. In some cases, you can pay with PayPal or Bitcoin! How easy is that?

What about Human Interaction?

Some of my co-workers are skeptical about the future growth of online arrangement tools. “What about the human interaction?” they claim, “People still want to talk to someone”.

Almost all funeral homes that offer online funeral arrangements tools also offer a funeral director at the end of the phone should you have any questions or queries. For many funeral homes where revenue is declining as families turn to cremation [average funeral home revenues are down 37%], being able to offer online arrangements enables them to keep cremation prices down and minimize their overhead.

If for any reason you feel uncomfortable about completing arrangements online, you should first consult with the funeral home. In many cases talking to a funeral professional can help to salve any concerns you may have. I have known of funeral directors who will actually complete the process online with the family on the end of the phone.

I know of several funeral homes offering online arrangements that DO require the family to phone first for a secure password to access the online arrangement tool. This is to help prevent unnecessary spam use or competitors soliciting information.

Save on Cremation Costs: Discounts for Online Cremation Arrangements

Don’t we all love a deal these days? How about $100 off if you arrange online? Several of the cremation providers we work with offer specially discounted cremation prices for those families that will complete the arrangement process online. The savings that they can make on overhead can be passed on to the families they serve. It may well be that their web advertised direct cremation price is an “Internet-Only” offer, or you will be offered some kind of cash discount off the cost of cremation if you DO complete all the arrangement process online.

A Word of Warning: Watch out for Add-On Pricing!

As a final note – do be aware that in some cases that enticing low-cost cremation price may be a very basic price, and you may find add-on items bump this price up as you complete the online process. It is wise to ensure you have read the full breakdown of what is included with the package you are selecting before starting the online process.

Check that the package includes the cremation container, any crematory fee, and at least 1 copy of a death certificate. A temporary cremation urn (a plastic/cardboard container) is generally provided with a direct cremation but you can select an upgraded urn.

For those that are comfortable with making purchases online, organizing the elements of a simple cremation disposition online may come relatively easily, for others this may still seem too giant a leap of custom and culture.

However, the fact that a significant number of progressive and entrepreneurial funeral businesses are now offering this as an alternative option to traditional methods of funeral arrangement certainly does signify that there is a demand in the funeral marketplace.

The separation between the disposition (cremation) element of the funeral ritual and the memorialization (service) highlights how the funeral industry is to some degree fragmenting. Today many families seek the disposition only element from the funeral home and then organize the memorialization themselves. Whether this is by enlisting a funeral celebrant, a local minister or simply arranging their own secular memorial service. Being able to organize the disposition online via a simple e-arrangement system, can help make this a simple process to manage.

Arranging a basic cremation in Toronto for $1,595.15 complete

Posted on March 7, 2022 by Sara Marsden

Cremation is a popular choice for Canadians, with around 73% opting for cremation as their final disposition Statista 2020). The cost of a cremation can vary considerably throughout the GTA area, and basic cremations are advertised for between $1,595.15 and $5,000. If you are arranging a simple cremation in Toronto you may want to compare cremation services and prices between the budget cremation providers.

There are several lower-cost cremation options being offered, but not all will include exactly the same services, so it is important to check that a cremation price advertised is fully inclusive of all service charges. For example, cash disbursements are often NOT included in a quoted price and these can include such items as the death certificate, cremation permit, and sometimes even the crematorium fee (if the funeral home is using a third-party crematorium).

Cost of a direct cremation in Toronto

Simple or basic cremation is generally a cremation without a service. It is called a ‘direct’ cremation in the funeral industry. This is the cheapest cremation option in Toronto. The cost of a basic cremation in Toronto can be anything from $1,595.15 to $5,000. This can depend upon the cremation service provider and whereabouts you are located.

Some providers will offer an all-inclusive price +GST.

The average cost of a cremation in GTA

basic-cremation-toronto

Cremation costs vary between funeral homes and cremation providers. The price of a cremation will also differ depending upon the type of cremation service you select. The lowest cost cremation in Toronto is a direct cremation, which can be arranged for just $1,595.15. A cremation with a full funeral service, on the other hand, is likely to cost in the region of $4,000 to $8,000.

Arranging cremation services in Toronto

If you need to find a funeral services provider in Toronto you can use this funeral homes in Toronto directory of all funeral service providers in GTA. If you require a guide to arranging a cremation in Toronto, then this funeral planning guide for Toronto may be useful to you.

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.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

ash scattering 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.

Preplanning an affordable direct cremation service in Toronto

If you wish to preplan a simple cremation you can lock in a low-cost cremation price in Toronto. 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 make 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.

Call your local DFS provider now on (437) 886-4318 to discuss pre-planning a direct cremation.

Can an overweight body be cremated?

A standard cremation at the inclusive cremation cost of $1,595.15 is for a person who weighed up to 300 pounds. Over this weight, there is an additional charge as additional work is required to prepare the body, reinforce the cremation container and extra gas usage. The additional amount will depend upon the weight of the deceased.

Affordable cremation $1,595.15 available throughout the GTA area and to residents of East York, Etobicoke, Scarborough, North York, York, Burlington, Guelph, Halton Hills, Hamilton, Mississauga, & Oakville

What is a direct burial? Your most inexpensive burial option

Posted on March 13, 2021 by Sara Marsden

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 service A 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

Posted on November 15, 2020 by Sara Marsden

Over 56% of Americans choose cremation instead of burial for their final disposition (Statista 2020). The cremation trend has been sweeping across our nation as it offers a more affordable and flexible end of life alternative to traditional burial. There are numerous reasons cited for why we are all opting for cremation, but the 2 key reasons are cost and flexibility. A cremation is much cheaper than a traditional burial – usually at least 40% – 60% less. Also, cremation offers more options for memorialization. For those families who have migrated or are transplants – cremated remains can be transferred back to a home state, or divided amongst family to be kept close. You can inter cremated remains, scatter them, or choose from a whole array of cremation artifacts! Read on to find out more about how to save on cremation costs in Atlanta.

What is the average cost of a cremation in Atlanta?

This is THE question that many families turn to the Internet to find out today. Maybe they are curious about how much a cremation costs, or in some cases they have been told by a funeral home in Atlanta just how much a funeral is going to cost!

The cost of a cremation does vary considerably – depending on which funeral home you select and what kind of cremation service you opt for. The average cost of a full-service cremation in the Atlanta Metropolitan area is $6,689 (Funeralocity 2021), although you can arrange a simple, direct cremation for much less than this.

Cremation Packages

Many funeral service providers in Atlanta will offer cremation packages. This can be a great way to save on the ‘a la carte’ General Price List of a funeral home, and know exactly what you are getting for a set price.

Generally there are 3 main types of cremation services. Firstly, you can select a basic cremation (otherwise referred to as an immediate cremation or a direct cremation) which is where there is no ceremony or services. A cremation memorial service is when the cremation is performed first and then a service held with the cremation ashes present (or not present). Finally, there is a full-service cremation, which is much the same as a traditional funeral only the deceased is cremated after the service instead of buried.

Direct cremation in Atlanta

Direct cremation is fast becoming the most popular cremation choice today. Why? Because it offers the cheapest and most flexible disposition option for families concerned about funeral costs and wanting a ‘simple’ solution. Many families in Atlanta are choosing a direct cremation and then arranging their own memorial services. This helps them saves a lot of money on cremation costs in Atlanta and puts the family firmly in control of the funeral service. Oftentimes, the price quoted for a direct cremation does NOT include things such as transport and service fees. Some funeral homes advertise a lower price which isn’t the complete price with all fees included. The DFS Memorials provider offers a direct cremation price of $995 complete, with no added fees or charges.

An immediate need direct cremation can be arranged in Atlanta for $995 complete. Call (404) 739-4924 now!

cremation services

What is included in a direct cremation?

It is wise to check exactly what is included for an advertised direct cremation price. Not all providers include the cremation container, which can cost an extra $75-150. Also, if the funeral home does not have a crematory, they may charge the crematory fee as a ‘cash advance’ fee.

A direct cremation generally includes:

Collecting the deceased & transporting he/she to the funeral home/crematory
Storage for the mandatory 48-hour waiting period for cremation
Completion of all the necessary paperwork & permits*
The cremation fee
The cremation container (an alternative cardboard container is generally used)
Returning the cremated remains to the family in a temporary container

*Death certificates & Medical Examiners fee are the only additional costs.

What extra costs may I have to pay for a cremation?

The fees that are paid to the county are generally extra costs that you have to pay upfront when you purchase a direct cremation package. In Atlanta the fee for a death certificate is $25.00 and additional copies will cost $5.00 each. (You need at least 1 death certificate but possibly more). It IS important to check what is included with a direct cremation package as some funeral service providers do not include items such as the cremation container or the crematory fee.

How do I choose a cremation provider in Atlanta?

It is always wise to check around with more than one provider to compare costs and services. At DFS Memorials, we have already compared a selection of cremation service providers in Atlanta to find the best direct cremation prices. We believe this saves you the stress at an emotional time.

How do cremation providers compare in Atlanta

It is always advisable to compare general price lists from several funeral service providers, as funeral costs can vary considerably for the exact same service from different service providers. A funeral home is obligated by the FTC’s ‘funeral rule’ to disclose prices to you when you make an inquiry – whether face-to-face or by phone/email.

How can you save money by arranging a cremation?

You can actually save thousands of dollars in funeral costs by arranging a cremation, especially a direct cremation. There is no need for a casket, embalming, burial vault or cemetery plot. With a direct cremation, you can arrange your own memorial services at a location of your choice, and a time best for the family.

Preplanning a cremation in Atlanta

You can preplan a cremation with a cremation services provider. You can even lock in the low cost of a direct cremation today in case gas prices do rise. You can prepay a cremation plan using an insurance policy or funds are deposited into trust. Alternatively, you can preplan by documenting your wishes and lay aside the required funds in a Payable on Death POD account.

Is there any help with cremation costs in Atlanta?

We do get asked this question too frequently! Sadly there is patchy help available at best. Any financial help for funeral costs differs by county, so you would need to consult your local county human services to explore if there is any assistance. This article explains what options there are to help you pay for a funeral.

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

Direct Cremation $995 – – – 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 $995 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 $995

Posted on October 30, 2020 by Cremation Advisor

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, direct cremation in Alpharetta for just $995!

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 in Alpharetta is $1,841 (Funeralocity 2021), although a direct cremation package can be conducted for just $995 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 $995.

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 $1,841, although a direct cremation can be arranged for less than this with some cremation providers. DFS Memorials offer a direct cremation service for $995.

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 direct 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?

Posted on October 18, 2020 by Sara Marsden

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.

What 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

Posted on August 14, 2020 by Cremation Advisor

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?

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Sara Marsden

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 $4,195 (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!!

Cremation: 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 $900 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 $925 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 $925, a direct burial for $795

and a complete traditional funeral for just $4,195

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

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 – $925

Posted on July 27, 2020 by N. G Pelling

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 Avondale. 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 $4,145.

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 $925, 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 $925.

Direct cremation means a family can manage to conduct dignified funeral services for as little as $925.

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

Are there are additional fees to the $925 cremation package in Avondale?

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.

Can I preplan a direct cremation at an affordable cost in Avondale?

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 in Avondale?

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 $925 with DFS Memorials is a dignified, yet affordable, disposition alternative if your family is struggling financially.

What is the service area around Avondale?

The $925 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

Posted on July 23, 2020 by N. G Pelling

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.

How 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.

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 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.