Category Archives: Cheap Funerals

Simple & affordable direct cremation in Brooklyn – $485

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Cremation cost Brooklyn NYAre you in need of a simple and affordable cremation in Brooklyn?

We have put together this guide to help you understand how you can save thousands of arranging a funeral.  In fact, you can arrange a simple, basic cremation for just $485!

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Brooklyn is $5,922*, 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?

There are 3 main types of cremation service options.  A cremation funeral – where the funeral service is held with the deceased present and a cremation is conducted after the service.  A cremation memorial – where the cremation is conducted before a memorial service is held.  This can be with, or without, the cremated remains present and can often take the form of an ash scattering ceremony.  Or there is a direct cremation – this is where the deceased is cremated with no services, and the remains are given back 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.

average cremation cost Brooklyn NYHow much does a cremation cost in Brooklyn?

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 $2,960*, depending upon the length of service held and what kind of casket you purchase or rent.  The average cost of a direct cremation is $1,046*, although a direct cremation package can be conducted for just $485 with DFS Memorials.

Direct cremation services in Brooklyn, NY

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 Brooklyn on (718) 395-3211 who offers a direct cremation for just $485.  Additional fees include the crematory fee and NY Permit.  The total cost for a complete direct cremation package is $726.50.

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 Brooklyn, NY

cremation plan Brooklyn NYAll 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 Brooklyn, the average cost of a direct cremation is $1,046*, although a direct cremation can be arranged for less than this with some cremation providers.  DFS Memorials offer a direct cremation service for $485.

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 in a timely fashion and there are delays?  Death certificates cost $15.00 for the first certificate and $10 for each additional death certificate required.  You should also note that the county coroner may charge a fee if they are required to sign the death certificate.

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

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 New York, 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.

In New York, a funeral home cannot own a crematory, so the crematory fee is generally considered a ‘cash advance’ or third party fee.  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.

direct cremation plan Brooklyn NYCan 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.  All funds paid for a pre-need cremation or funeral plan in New York must be placed into a trust.  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!

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 NYC Government who manage aid for residents of the five boroughs of NYC.  Phone:  212-504-4115 to find out if any assistance is available to you.  New York City’s Department of Social Services does have a Funeral Finance Assistance Program to assist New York City residents.  Up to $900 in assistance can be paid for a funeral costing no more than $1,700 for low-income residents.  This means a simple direct cremation can be arranged within an assistance program budget.

What is “no-cost cremation”?

Some funeral homes now offer this option in Brooklyn.  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 210 Joralemon St, Rm 2, 1st Fl Municipal Bldg Brooklyn, NY 11201 Phone: 718-802-3589

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.

New York County Medical Examiner & Coroner 520 1st Avenue New York NY 10016

Hopefully, this short guide to arranging an affordable cremation service in Brooklyn 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 2019

Guide to arranging a simple cremation service in Mobile and Baldwin Counties, AL

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The cremation trend is revolutionizing the death care industry in the U.S., and Alabama is no exception.  Although still a somewhat ‘traditional’ state, the cremation rate around the Mobile Bay is increasing exponentially.  The cost of a cremation is probably the single most significant factor why families are choosing cremation.  The flexibility that cremation offers also appeals to families who wish to conduct a simple cremation service and personalize a memorial.

Why choose cremation over burial?

Deciding whether to bury or cremate is very much a personal choice.  For some families, the decision is dictated by the budget they have for a funeral.  A cremation service will cost much less than a traditional burial funeral.  On average a cremation service will cost at least a third, if not half, the cost of a burial.  More families are leaning towards cremation as it does offer greater flexibility. The funeral service does not have to go ahead immediately.  A cremation can be performed and then a service held at a later date convenient to the family.

With more transplants living in the Mobile Bay area, cremation offers a simple solution to death care and is much less expensive than shipping human remains back to a home state.  Cremation just offers an alternative method of final disposition.  Cremated remains can still be interred in a cemetery, but generally at a lower cost than a body burial.  Cremation is a very final disposition of the body, so it is very important to ensure that you are very sure about the decision to cremate.

Cheap cremation Mobile ALHow much does a simple cremation service cost in Mobile?

Firstly it is important to state that cremation prices in Mobile DO vary quite considerably between funeral homes.  Not all funeral homes have their own crematory but will use the services of a local crematory.

A simple cremation in Mobile county can cost anywhere between $1,195 and $4,000 for the exact same service.

A basic cremation can be conducted in Mobile for $1,195 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.

Call DFS Memorials Mobile now on (251) 206-5572

If desired the family can arrange a brief final goodbye viewing at the funeral home.  This is offered by the DFS Memorials of Mobile cremation services provider for an incremental fee of just $200.

*death certificates not included in basic direct cremation package

cremation-funeral-baldwin-countyWhat type of cremation services are available?

Many funeral homes now offer a sample of cremation 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, or a cremation followed by a memorial service.  The change in the funeral industry in Alabama today is the move towards ‘personalization’ and making a funeral service that fits the needs of the family, whatever they are.  If you have any special requirements, these will always be met if possible, and feel free to call us on (251) 206-5572 to discuss your cremation requirements.  If required it IS possible for the family to view the start of the cremation process (as required by some faiths).

A full-service funeral followed by a cremation package can be arranged for $4,295.

A cremation memorial service package can be arranged for $2,295.

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.

If you do have concerns about the continuity of care offered throughout the cremation process, you may wish to choose a funeral home that has their own crematory, so your loved one’s remains never leave their care!

Understand the legal requirements for cremation in Mobile and Baldwin Counties

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, and there is a mandatory legal waiting period in Alabama of 24 hours before a cremation can go ahead.

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.

cremation-costs-mobilePreplanning an affordable cremation service

If you wish to preplan a simple cremation you can lock in a low-cost cremation price of $1095.  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 or 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.

Veteran Funerals in Mobile

There are certain discounts and benefits that are available to Veterans.  A Veteran is entitled to a free cemetery plot and grave marker and a US Flag.  A $200 discount is available from our DFS Memorials provider for a funeral package and a $100 discount for a cremation package.  There are also sometimes reductions in the cost of a death certificate for a Veteran.

Overweight body cremation in Mobile

A standard cremation at the inclusive cremation cost of $1095 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.  The crematory at Mobile can cremate a body up to 800 pounds.

No life insurance – financial assistance 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 pays out 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.  To find out what may be available you should contact Mobile County or Baldwin County Human Services Departments.

DFS Memorials low-cost cremation services are available to residents of Bay Minette, Chickasaw, Daphne, Fairhope, Foley, Gulf Shores, Jackson, Prichard, Saraland, Satsuma, Spanish Fort, Theodore, & Tillman’s Corner.

 

Affordable cremation services in Metairie

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Direct Cremation in MetairieFunerals need not be as expensive as many of us have been led to believe.  If you are looking for an affordable cremation service, this guide can help you.  Parting.com surveyed the average cost of a funeral in Metairie at $9,191 in 2017, however, a direct cremation can be conducted for just $1,550.

The full cost of a traditional burial funeral is out of many families means these days. Below, we have provided an overview of local cremation costs and how you can save money on funeral expenses.

How much can I expect to pay for a funeral service in Metairie?

The cost of a funeral varies.  It will depend upon the type of funeral service you choose and the funeral service provider you select.  If you do any research with local funeral homes you will discover that the price for a funeral package will vary from different providers, even for the exact same services!  Whilst the NFDA can quote the average cost of a funeral at $9,191, it is possible to arrange a funeral for considerably less than this.

How much does a cremation cost in Metairie?

The average price of a direct cremation in Metairie is $2,728*, again depending on the type of cremation service chosen.  A full-service cremation costs more than a simple direct cremation.  A simple, direct cremation package price of $1,550 is offered by DFS Memorials.

How do I select a funeral services provider?

If you have no prior experience with a funeral services provider this can seem an overwhelming task. Consult with friends and associates and seek recommendations.  If you are using the Internet to research funeral services and prices in Metairie, be sure to check the ownership of who you are dealing with.  Some funeral companies have set up online budget cremation businesses, and some corporate groups also trade as low-cost cremation companies.  If you are in doubt, ask if they are independently-owned.  DFS Memorials only work with a reputable, licensed and independently-owned funeral home.

Green Burial ContainerHow can I save money when arranging a funeral or cremation?

These days many of us are concerned about having the necessary funds to conduct funeral services for a loved one if no provision was made.  Let’s face it…not many folks can just produce thousands of dollars at the drop of a hat!  There are ways that you can ensure you keep your funeral expenses to a minimum.

Generally, a cremation will work out less expensive than a burial, namely as no immediate cemetery fees are required for cremation.  However, a dignified burial can be achieved at a very affordable cost.

Opting for cremation means that there is no need for a casket, burial vault or cemetery plot.  And eliminating these costs alone can save you several thousand dollars.

What is ‘direct cremation’?

A direct cremation is where the deceased is cremated but no services or ceremony is held. Minimal services are offered by the funeral director to collect the deceased, prepare the body for cremation, and process all the required paperwork.  The deceased is cremated in a simple cremation container and the remains are made available for the family to collect or have delivered to them.  No funeral home visit is required for a direct cremation service.  In many cases, the funeral director will visit you at home to sign the paperwork and consult with you about arrangements.

A direct cremation is becoming very popular as a way in which the funeral home can assist in the immediate disposition of the deceased for an affordable fee but leaves the family with the opportunity to conduct their own memorial ceremony once they have the cremated remains back.

What can I do with the cremated remains?

You can inter cremated remains into a grave plot or niche at a cemetery, keep a cremation urn at home, or scatter the remains in a place of your choosing. There are many options for how we can memorialize a lost loved one and there is now a range of cremation artifacts that can be created to help us immortalize the memory of a loved one, from birdbaths made with concrete infused with cremation ashes to memorial diamonds!  Some families are choosing to scatter ashes in a memorable place for a loved one’s last resting place.  Read this section on Ash Scattering for more ideas.

What if the deceased is at the Medical Examiners?

If the deceased is at the Medical Examiner’s office, you need to appoint a funeral director to arrange the release of the body into their care. Only a licensed funeral director can collect a body from the county morgue.

What if the deceased had no life insurance?

More often these days family members are passing and we find out that they had no life insurance or funeral plan.  This can mean surviving families are burdened with a funeral bill that they cannot afford to pay.  There is very little financial support to assist families in this situation, and it varies significantly by state and county.  We would suggest you contact Jefferson Parish Public Information Office at 1221 Elmwood Park Boulevard, Suite 1002 Jefferson, LA 70123 Phone: (504) 736-6410

There is also a $255 lump-sum social security death benefit payment for those that qualify.  Your funeral director will assist you in claiming this.

We hope this short guide has answered some of your questions about how to save on funeral costs and will help you arrange a simple cremation at an affordable price. If you have any further questions about arranging a cremation in Metairie please call your DFS Memorials provider on (504) 215-8264.

Average cremation costs in Boston, MA

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As more and more families opt for cremation over a traditional burial, we find families are seeking out information to help them better understand their options.  This article provides a brief overview of cremation in Boston, how you can save money by arranging cremation services and helps you to compare cremation costs between funeral service providers in Boston.

How can you save money by arranging a cremation?

Direct cremation Boston MAA cremation is likely to save you 40 – 50% on the cost of a traditional burial funeral.  Why is this? It is largely because you can eliminate some of the largest outlays associated with a funeral.  With cremation, there is no need for a casket, embalming, a burial vault, cemetery plot or full-size grave marker.  Eliminating these funeral merchandise items/services can save you a few thousand dollars!  Another way that cremation can save money is that it is possible to hold a memorial service (with the cremated remains present) without having to go ahead with a funeral ceremony immediately.  This can allow families time to make decisions.  Often this can mean that money-savings options can be more thoroughly explored.  Some families even choose to conduct their own memorial service, which can save on venue and staff costs, plus it also makes a service so much more personalized.

What is the average cost of a cremation in Boston?

Cremation prices do differ quite considerably between different funeral homes in Boston.  For this reason an ‘average’ cremation cost has to be put into the perspective depending on what kind of cremation services are being assessed.  Nationally the average cost of a cremation funeral is $3,745 for a cremation with a ceremony and a mid-range urn.  Average cremation costs in Boston are on par with this price.  However, cheaper cremation options are available as mentioned below.

Cremation Packages

A funeral home must have a general price list (GPL) outlining their service charges but many funeral homes also offer cremation packages, where a price is offered for a complete cremation service.  In comparing costs and services between funeral homes, it is important to ensure you are comparing like-for-like services, especially when it is a quoted cremation package price.  Not all cremation providers quote a fully inclusive price when quoting a cremation package.

Cremation ServiceDirect cremation in Boston

Direct cremation, or immediate cremation, is becoming an increasingly popular choice for funeral consumers.  A direct cremation is the simplest, and least expensive, option.  It involves the funeral home collecting the deceased, transferring him/her into their care, completing all the necessary paperwork and conducting the cremation (after the legal waiting period of 48-hours).  A basic cremation container is used and the ashes are generally returned in a temporary urn.  Direct cremation in Boston can cost anywhere between $1,395 and $3,000.

How do I choose a cremation provider in Boston?

Choosing a cremation provider can depend upon what kind of services you require.  If you are looking for a cremation with a ceremony or interment committal, then you will need a funeral home that offers the facilities for a ceremony and that is in a good location for your family.

If you have decided upon a simple direct cremation at the most affordable price, then you may consider the services of a provider who specifically offers a direct cremation at a low cost.  The locale of the funeral home is not as essential if no services are being held.  And many funeral homes have extended their service area for direct cremation services.

The DFS Memorials provider for Boston is an established funeral home with facilities for ceremonies, yet covers a wide service area into all of Eastern Massachusetts.  DFS Memorials offers families a low-cost cremation in Boston.

DFS Memorials BOSTON  (617) 221-7778 – Call with any questions you may have

Direct Cremation $1,395

How do cremation providers compare in Boston?

It is always wise to shop around and compare services and costs.  We do it in any other large purchase we make – so why not when purchasing end of life services?  It can be quite a task trying to efficiently compare local funeral homes, so we have conducted a survey and provided a sample of the best prices we discovered for a basic direct cremation package in Boston.

cremation-cost-boston

Disclaimer: This cremation cost information was obtained from providers in November 2013. 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.

Hopefully, this can assist families in understanding the differences in cremation costs on a local level.

What about preplanning a simple, affordable cremation?

Most budget cremation packages offered are an ‘at need’ price.  If you wish to purchase a simple cremation plan, you can expect the cost to be higher.  How much a cremation plan will cost will depend upon how it is funded and your age at the time of purchasing a prepaid plan.  Do consider that an alternative is to document your funeral wishes and put aside the appropriate funds to cover a basic cremation in a POD account [Payable on Death or Totten Trust].  Your money is safe and accumulating interest for you, and your surviving family/beneficiary can access the funds when the need arises.

What if the deceased had no life insurance? Is there any help with cremation costs in Boston?

Sadly more families are finding themselves struggling to meet funeral costs.  Public aid can be a little patchy depending upon where you are.  In Boston, the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) will pay for part of the cost of a funeral for MassHealth (Medicaid) members and other low-income, financially qualifying individuals. The DTA will pay up to $1,100 for funeral expenses that do not exceed $1,500.  You must inform your chosen funeral director that you are claiming a Medicaid or MassHealth funeral and the funeral director will then bill the DTA.  The deceased’s family must pay the remaining $400 to the funeral home.

There is also the $255 Social Security lump sum death benefit for those that qualify, and various union, faith, and charitable organizations may offer some support to families to assist with covering funeral costs.

DFS Memorials Boston serves families throughout Essex, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk & Worcester Counties and Allston/Brighton, Back Bay, Bay Village, Beacon Hill, Charlestown, Dorchester, East Boston, Fenway/Kenmore, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, Mattapan, Mission Hill, North End, Roslindale, Roxbury, South Boston, South End, West End and West Roxbury.

Arranging a low cost cremation or funeral in Jacksonville, FL

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Today we are all more discerning consumers, and this concern for saving money even extends to purchasing funeral services.  An average funeral can cost $8,755 (according to the National Funeral Directors Association 2017) and yet this cost does not even include cemetery fees.  When many families are struggling paycheck to paycheck, overspending on funeral expenses is just not an option!

In this article, we aim to give you an overview of arranging a low-cost cremation or an affordable burial service in Jacksonville.

What is the average cost of a cremation in Jacksonville?

cremation cost jacksonville flFlorida is the ‘sunshine state’, and a popular retirement destination has a higher than average cremation rate.  In many cases, the family finds it more convenient (and cheaper) to arrange for a simple cremation and then ship or transport the cremated remains.  It is possible to arrange a basic cremation with a licensed funeral home in Jacksonville for $695.

The cost of a basic cremation can vary between different funeral service providers in Jacksonville, therefore an average cremation cost is nearer to $2,200.  How much your cremation will cost will largely depend upon what type of cremation service you select, and which provider you opt to conduct the service.

Florida is one of only 2 states that DO license Direct Disposers.  These are businesses that can ONLY conduct direct dispositions.  They are NOT licensed funeral establishments and cannot offer the additional range of services that a funeral home can offer.  Although a Direct Disposer may appear to offer a very competitive direct cremation price, you do need to consider what ‘hidden’ extras you may pay for, and the limitations of the service package that can be offered.

How can you save money by arranging a cremation?

A cremation can save you thousands of dollars on the cost of a burial.  Choosing cremation removes the need for a burial plot, burial vault, a casket, and even embalming.  It is possible to have a funeral services provider conduct the cremation for you, and then arrange your own memorial service.  This is a key way to save money whilst also personalizing a life celebration memorial.

Cremation & Funeral Packages in Jacksonville

affordable-funeral-jacksonvilleMany funeral homes offer cremation and funeral packages to simplify the selection of services for the consumer.  It is important to carefully check exactly what is included in any funeral services package.  Generally, you have a ‘simple’ or low-priced option for a cremation or burial.  This is commonly referred to as immediate cremation or immediate burial.  This budget funeral option will not include any services or ceremonies.

The mid-range cremation or funeral package will include a graveside service or memorial service.  A full traditional funeral package or Cremation Tribute will generally include all the trimmings of a full-service funeral ceremony.

How much will a traditional funeral cost in Jacksonville?

As mentioned above funeral prices can, and do, vary significantly.  A traditional funeral can cost anything up to around $10,000 when including in all fees and costs.  However, it is possible to arrange a traditional funeral on a budget and spend only a few thousand dollars for a dignified ceremony.

Direct cremation in Jacksonville

A direct cremation is a popular option in Jacksonville.  A direct cremation simply means that the funeral home handles the immediate cremation of the deceased without conducting any services or ceremony.  The deceased is collected, sheltered, and prepared for cremation.  A basic cremation container is used for the cremation and the cremated remains are returned to the family in a temporary urn.

How do I choose a cremation provider in Jacksonville?

It can be daunting knowing where to start if you need to arrange a funeral and do not have a preferred or recommended funeral home to contact.  It can help to make a list of questions and/or your criteria.  This can help you if you need to compare services and prices between funeral homes.  If the cost is an important factor and you need to arrange a low-cost funeral, then we would recommend you contact the DFS Memorials provider for Jacksonville.

Low-cost cremation in Jacksonville

DFS Memorials offers a complete direct cremation in Jacksonville for $695.

Call (904) 395-7939

Is there any help with cremation costs in Jacksonville?

There is very limited financial aid for funeral costs.  All states/counties have different rules and budgets for the level of public aid they have (if any).  If you are struggling financially and worried about how you can pay for a funeral, you may wish to try consulting your county social services or human services.   The state is responsible for dealing with indigent burials, but this is generally just for those individuals who become the responsibility of the state.

Social Security offers a lump sum death benefit of $255 to those that qualify and veterans are entitled to certain benefits.  There are also unions, church, and charity organizations that may assist a family with fund-raising to pay for funeral expenses.  If finances are a concern – the most important thing is to try and keep your funeral costs down as much as possible.

Serving families in Duval County, Nassau County, St Johns County and Clay County, and Arlington, Brooklyn, Downtown, Eastside, Jacksonville Beaches, Lake Shore, LaVilla, Mandarin, Murray Hill, New Town, Northside, Ortega, Panama Park, Riverside and Avondale, San Marco, Sandalwood, Southbank, Southside, Springfield, St. Nicholas and Westside.

Cremation Services in Bolingbrook, IL

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Direct Cremation in Bolingbrook, ILCremation 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 a 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 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 $995.

It is important to state that cremation prices in Bolingbrook DO vary quite considerably between funeral homes, and depending 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 as $995 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 $995

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, bird baths 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 pay out 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 to 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 a cremation in Worcester for $1,395

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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 of dollars in arranging a funeral in Worcester.  In fact, you can arrange a simple and dignified direct cremation for just $1,395.

Direct cremation Worcester MAWhy choose cremation services?

Cremation offers an inexpensive and versatile alternative to a burial service.  Opting for cremation services can save you 40% to 60% (or sometimes more) on the cost of traditional burial services.  No casket is required, or embalming (unless required) and there is no immediate need for a cemetery plot or burial vault.  Eliminating these products and services saves thousands of dollars.

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 various options for cremation services. You can choose to have a cremation without any ceremony or services or have a full traditional funeral followed by 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.  Or there is a direct cremation – this is where the deceased is cremated with no services, and the remains are given back 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 Worcester?

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.  A full-service cremation with a service will cost in the region of $3,000 – $5,000, depending upon the length of service held and what kind of casket you purchase or rent.  Direct cremation will cost between $1,395 and $2,700 (depending on the funeral home used).

Direct cremation services in Worcester, MA

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 or 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 Worcester on (508) 203-7966 who offers a complete direct cremation package for just $1,395.

How do I choose a cremation services provider?

cremation-services-worcester-maThis 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.

How do cremation costs compare in Worcester, MA

All funeral homes in Worcester 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.

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?  A death certificate costs $31.00 each.

What legally do I need to know about arranging a cremation in Worcester, MA?

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 Massachusetts, there is no specified mandatory wait period after death before the cremation can proceed, however, before a cremation can proceed the doctor must sign and fill out the cause of death, and the county health department must issue a permit to cremate.  The deceased will be refrigerated during this period, and longer if required, however, you should be aware that many cremation packages will only include refrigeration for up to 5 days and will charge you a daily rate thereon.

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.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

cremation-costs-worcester-maAs 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?

In Massachusetts, MassHealth does have a program to assist residents who are recipients of state benefits with funeral expenses.  Assistance is available from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and funds up to $1,100 can be paid direct to the funeral home.  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 a budget provider can be arranged for $1,395.

What is “no-cost cremation”?

Some funeral homes now offer this option in Massachusetts.  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!

Arranging a low cost cremation in Jacksonville, FL

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cremation cost jacksonville flMore families today are looking to save money on the cost of a funeral, and turning to the Internet to conduct cremation price comparisons.  The only problem with this is that many funeral homes in Jacksonville do not disclose funeral prices on their websites.

Although the FTC rule made it federal law for funeral homes to have a general price list and to make this available to families either in person or by phone, still too many funeral homes choose NOT to include this on their website.  This makes it difficult for families at the time of need to effectively use the Internet to price shop for funeral services.

We at DFS Memorials wanted to simplify this and help families by easily connecting them with a local Jacksonville funeral home that offered the best value cremation services.  We wanted to take the hassle out of funeral price shopping for families.

Low-cost cremation services in Jacksonville

We conducted some research and cremation cost comparisons to establish a preferred low-cost cremation provider for the Jacksonville area.  The cost of a basic cremation can vary considerably depending upon the funeral home you select but you can arrange a basic direct cremation in Jacksonville for around $695.

An affordable direct cremation package will generally include:

  • Collecting the deceased from the place of death
  • Refrigerated storage for the mandatory waiting period
  • Completion of all the necessary documentation & authorizations
  • A basic cremation container
  • The cremation
  • A temporary container to return the cremated remains to the family

Cheap direct cremation from a Direct Disposer in Jacksonville

Florida is one of only two states where Direct Disposers are licensed and can operate without funeral home facilities.  Cremation costs from a Direct Disposer may initially seem much cheaper, but I would suggest you carefully check the small print of an offered budget cremation from a Direct Disposer.  It is not unknown for charges such as refrigeration or out-of-hours collection to significantly increase the cremation cost.

The DFS Memorials provider for Jacksonville is a local, family-owned funeral home that can offer full-service cremation services but also understands the need for cremation services that meet every budget.  This enables DFS Memorials to offer families in Jacksonville a simple, dignified direct cremation for just $695 complete (with no hidden extras).

$695 complete direct cremation available to the Greater Jacksonville area and throughout the neighborhoods of Arlington, Avondale, Barnette Office Park, Belfort Station, Brooklyn, Cecil Field Naval Air Station, Central Civic Core District, Church District, Downtown, East Jacksonville, Empire Point, First Coast Center, Institutional District, La Valla District, Mandarin, North Jacksonville, Oakland, Ortega, River Park, Riverside, San Marco, Sherwood Forest, South Bank Dist, South Jacksonville, South Side, Springfield, Springfield Historical District, St. John Quarter Historic District, Stadium District, Waterleaf, and West Jacksonville

Direct cremation cost in San Francisco – $850

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Cremation cost San Francisco CACheck out our guide to cremation costs in San Francisco. Cremation is not only a very popular disposition choice for families in the Bay Area, but it is also a very affordable funeral option today.  In some counties in California around the Bay Area, cremation accounts for over 90% of funerals conducted.

California has always been a ‘progressive’ state and it seems Californians’ attitudes towards death rituals adopt a modern, and maybe less traditionalist, approach.  Still what you can buy for your dollar in terms of cremation services can vary significantly, so we have put together this brief guide to help families understand cremation costs and services in San Francisco.

How much does a cremation cost in the Bay Area?

This is never a straight-forward question to answer as cremation prices vary so between different funeral homes in the Bay Area.  The average cost of a cremation is $7,045 (NFDA 2012), yet the cost for cremation can range from $850 to $6,000, depending upon the type of cremation service and the ancillary products.  It is fair to say that even comparing the exact same cremation service can produce a range of varying prices.

Understanding different cremation packages and services

You can customize your cremation service to personally fit your needs, but generally, there are 3 main types of cremation service.

  • Direct, or immediate cremation (with no services or ceremony)
  • Cremation funeral services (ceremony held prior to cremation)
  • Cremation Memorial services (ceremony held after cremation)

It is not always easy comparing cremation services because funeral homes either offer a lengthy itemized general price list (GPL) or package together different services/merchandise.  It is important to carefully check exactly what IS included in any cremation package.  It is not uncommon to see a cremation service that appears to be at an affordable price, only to discover that it is not an inclusive price.  A funeral home can add ‘cash advance’ items to a quoted cremation price, and these will be items that the funeral director has to pay out to a third party.  This can include items such as the cremation permit, cremation fee (if the funeral home does not own their own crematory) and death certificates.   It is also wise to carefully check whether such things as additional refrigerated storage is included if the cremation cannot proceed within a certain timeframe or additional fees for transportation and collection.

Oversize cremation in the Bay Area

With a growing obesity issue, we are asked about cremations for overweight people more often these days.  A standard cremation is generally suitable for a person weighing up to 250 pounds.  For a person weighing over 250 pounds, an additional fee may be required, if the crematory is suitable to handle an oversize person.

cremation-services-bay-areaModern cremation services & life celebration services

Cremation allows for much greater flexibility in how we approach our death care ritual.  If gathering the family together immediately is difficult, a cremation memorial service can be held at a date and time that is convenient.  It also means that a ceremony can be held when the family has had a chance to recover from the immediate shock of the bereavement, allowing for time and reflection to plan a befitting ceremony.  Today we are moving into an era where the traditional funeral is being replaced by a life celebration – more of an upbeat celebration of a life lived, than a somber mourning event.

Families often choose to have the cremation performed and use the services of a celebrant to lead a memorial service.  Some families even opt to arrange their own memorial service – making it totally personalized.

Cremated remains can be shipped anywhere relatively inexpensively, so this also enables more flexibility in funeral services.  Mom or Pop passes in a state to which they retired, but can easily and at minimal cost be transported back to their home state for a service and/or interment.

A direct cremation: the lowest cost cremation option

If just a simple, low-cost cremation service is what you require – the no-frills cremation – then a direct cremation is for you.  A direct cremation is where the cremation proceeds without any services, viewing etc and then the cremated remains are returned directly to the family.  It is also referred to as an immediate cremation, or many funeral homes in San Francisco will refer to it as a basic or simple cremation.  You can arrange a complete direct cremation within the Bay Area for $850.  This includes the collection of the deceased, storage for the mandatory waiting period, completion of all necessary paperwork, a basic cremation container, the cremation process and returning the cremated remains to the family in a temporary urn.

Direct disposers in San Francisco

California is one of 2 states that licenses direct disposers.  A direct disposer is NOT a licensed funeral home but he is licensed to conduct only direct cremations.  As they do not have to operate a funeral home, they can operate with a much-reduced overhead, enabling them to offer direct cremations at a reduced price.  However, you should note that this reduced price will reflect the level of service offered.  A direct disposer will not be able to offer any viewing and may add additional fees for incremental services.

cremation plan san franciscoHow do I choose a cremation services provider?

It can be confusing deciding which cremation provider to choose.  There are around 30 funeral homes in San Francisco, so start with your specific criteria to narrow your selection process.  If cost and value are important, then you need to seek out a low-cost cremation provider.  Generally, the corporate funeral homes tend to be more expensive, although even some family-owned funeral homes can be as expensive.  Shop around some and compare costs and services.  Check for reviews and recommendations from family, co-workers or support networks.

DFS Memorials does some of this for you.  So we check around, compare cremation prices and reviews, and select only a reputable family-owned funeral home that offers the best value cremation service to work with the network.

Our provider in the Bay Area is an established full-service funeral home, with several locations, who now operate a low-cost cremation arm to meet this need.

Call DFS Memorials NOW on (415) 286-9121

To arrange a Direct Cremation for $850

The deceased had no life insurance: Is there any help with cremation costs?

Any financial assistance available for funerals varies so much by state and county, that you really need to speak with your local county human services or social services to find out what, if any, public aid may be available.  They can best advise on what is available and whether or not you would be eligible, depending on your personal circumstances.

There is the $255 Social Security death payment (if you qualify) and veterans do qualify for a free grave plot, grave marker, and flag.  If you have concerns about how you can afford a funeral, then a direct cremation is your cheapest option.

Our $850 direct cremation is available throughout Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz & Stanislaus counties.

Understanding funeral costs in Baltimore, MD

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Direct cremation cost Baltimore MDThe high cost of dying is becoming a concern for many families today.  Not only can many of us not afford an elaborate and expensive funeral, but more people are deciding that they want something more simple and affordable.

With over 70 funeral homes in Baltimore, it can be a minefield trying to identify exactly what a funeral will cost in Baltimore, and work out your options.  So we have put together this guide to help you understand funeral costs in Baltimore and, more importantly, how to save money arranging a funeral or cremation.

How much does a funeral cost in Baltimore?

This is a question that funeral directors often seem to side-step answering!  Instead they like to regale you with stories of how many generations they have been in business, or how excellent they are at providing ‘special’ ceremonies.  I have no doubt that this is true BUT this still does not always justify their pricing.  If a funeral director cannot simply answer a question about price…it should ring alarm bells!

The average cost of a funeral in Baltimore [a typical traditional burial] is $9,010*.

Cremation Service Baltimore MDSo how can you save money by arranging a cremation?

A cremation is likely to save you at least half the cost of a traditional burial funeral.  You immediately save on some of the largest outlays associated with a funeral.  With cremation there is no need for a casket, embalming, a burial vault, cemetery plot or full-size grave marker.  Eliminating these funeral merchandise items/services can save you a few thousand dollars!  Another way that a cremation can save money is that it is possible to hold a memorial service (with the cremated remains present) without having to go ahead with a funeral ceremony immediately.  This can allow families time to make decisions.  Often this can mean that money-saving options can be more thoroughly explored.  Some families even choose to conduct their own memorial service, which can save on venue and staff costs, plus it also makes a service so much more personalized.

What is the average cost of a cremation in Baltimore?

The first thing to establish is that cremation prices do differ quite considerably between different funeral homes in Baltimore.  For this reason an ‘average’ cremation cost has to be put into the perspective on what kind of cremation services are being assessed.  The average cost of a cremation funeral is $3,942* for a cremation with a ceremony and a mid-range urn.  This is above the national average cost for cremation services.  However, cheaper cremation options are available as outlined below, and you can arrange a cremation in Baltimore for as little as $1,365 complete.

Choosing a Cremation Package

cremation-cedar-rapids-iowaA funeral home must have a general price list (GPL) outlining their service charges but many funeral homes also offer cremation packages, where a price is offered for a complete cremation service.  In comparing costs and services between funeral homes, it is important to ensure you are comparing like-for-like services, especially when it is a quoted cremation package price.  Not all cremation providers quote a fully inclusive price when quoting a cremation package.  There are generally 3 main types of cremation options – a direct cremation (a basic minimal cremation), a cremation with a funeral service, or a cremation with a memorial service.  The difference is that with a direct cremation there is NO service or ceremony conducted by the funeral provider, although you can conduct your own memorial services afterwards.  A cremation with a funeral service is generally where the deceased is present and the cremation is conducted after the service.  A cremation with a memorial service is where the cremation is conducted first and a memorial service held with the cremation urn present.

Arranging a direct cremation in Baltimore

A direct cremation is the least expensive cremation option.  It is sometimes referred to as a simple or basic cremation, or called an immediate cremation.  It means that just a basic disposition service is offered.  The deceased is collected, prepared for cremation, all the necessary documentation completed, the cremation process goes ahead and then the cremated remains are returned to the family (generally in a temporary urn).

The average cost of a direct cremation in Baltimore is $2,327*.  This reflects the huge range of pricing for a direct cremation in the city, starting from just over a $1,000 and going up to $6,120.

help-with-funeral-cost-MDHow do I choose a cremation provider in Baltimore?

Choosing a cremation provider can depend upon what kind of cremation services you require.  If you are looking for a cremation with a ceremony or interment committal, then you will need a funeral home that offers the facilities for a ceremony and that is in a good location for your family.

If you have decided upon a simple direct cremation at the most affordable price, then you may consider the services of a provider who specifically offers a direct cremation at a low cost.  The locale of the funeral home is not as essential if no services are being held.  And many funeral homes have extended their service area for direct cremation services.

How do cremation providers compare in Baltimore

It is always wise to shop around and compare services and costs.  We do it in any other large purchase we make – so why not when purchasing end of life services?  You will no doubt be surprised by how much the cost of funeral services can vary between funeral homes in Baltimore.

What if the deceased had no life insurance? Is there any help with cremation costs in Baltimore?

An individual passing without any insurance, and family struggling to meet funeral costs, is becoming a more regular occurrence.  Not surprising when we learn that 76% of American families are living paycheck to paycheck [CNN Oct 2013].   Public aid can be a little patchy depending upon where you are but you can consult your local county human services or social services to find out if there is any financial assistance near you.   The state will meet indigent burials for those that become the responsibility of Maryland but there are generally eligibility requirements for any state funding for funeral expenses.

There is also the $255 Social Security lump sum death benefit for those that qualify, and various union, faith and charitable organizations may offer some support to families to assist with covering funeral costs.

DFS Memorials Baltimore serves families in Annapolis, Baltimore, Barnesville, Beltsville, Bethesda, Bowie, Brentwood, Charlott Hall, Clarksville, Clinton, Columbia, Damascus, Ellicott City, Gaithersburg, Gambrills, Hyattsville, La Plata, Laurel, Laytonsville, Owings, Oxon Hill, Rockville, Silver Spring, Suitland and throughout Baltimore, Howard, Anne Arundel and Harford Counties. 

*efuneral Price Index January 2013