Category Archives: Funeral Planning

What is a direct burial? Your most inexpensive burial option

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

A direct cremation service offering is on every funeral home’s General Price List (GPL), but usually towards the end of their listing of services.  It is the most minimal cremation offering available and, therefore, also their least expensive funeral service option.

It is possible (in most metro areas) to be able to arrange a direct cremation for around $800. [The price range varies between $695 to $1,395].

However, although some families are searching for affordability and simplicity, cremation is not the choice for everyone.  There are still around 40% of Americans who choose burial services.  A funeral home also has, as standard, a direct burial service package offering.  This is also often located at the bottom of their GPL.

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

Then a direct burial might be the solution.

What does a direct burial entail?

Direct burial serviceA direct burial is a similar direct disposition to direct cremation.  No formal funeral service is 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 keep costs down and the whole service simple and affordable.

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

If so wished, there is the option to hold a simple graveside interment service 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.

You can visit this Green Burial Sites directory on US Funerals Online to find a Green Cemetery near you.

In addition, here is a link to Resources and Articles about Arranging a green Funeral or Natural Burial.

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 even to employ a funeral director.  However, do note there are at least 10 States where funeral licensing laws do require a funeral director to be 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.

Sometimes families do not want to opt for a direct cremation but have limited financial resources to cover the cost of a funeral.  In this case, a simple direct burial can be a more affordable alternative.

Cremation costs in 2023: How much should you pay for a direct cremation service?

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Over 58% of Americans now choose cremation as their ‘preferred’ disposition and death care option.  This shift from traditional burial to cremation is having a huge impact on the funeral industry.  Because, while cremation means that funerals are becoming more affordable for families, it means that funeral homes’ revenue is declining.  What we are starting to witness in 2023 is the impact of cremation in terms of pricing.

This guide explores cremation costs, compares direct cremation prices in 19 top cities, explains your options for inexpensively pre-arranging a cheap direct cremation, and whether we can expect cremation costs to rise.

Visit the table below to check direct cremation costs near you

Cremation saves on funeral costs

Often families think of cremation as a way to save costs.  And, although there are different reasons why a family chooses cremation, the lower cost of a cremation funeral is by far the primary reason.  A cremation service is generally at least half the cost of a burial service, if not more.  But, direct cremation is what is revolutionizing the funeral industry at present.  A direct cremation is the most economical cremation option.  And, what the industry is not telling us, is that direct cremation is now accounting for around 70% of all cremations performed.

What does a cremation cost?What is a direct cremation?  And why is this challenging the funeral industry?

A direct cremation, is where a simple cremation is conducted, without any ceremony or services.  This means the funeral establishment (or crematory) simply handles the collection of the deceased, completes the required legal administration, and performs the cremation.  The cremated remains are then returned directly to the family.  What this means is that it can be delivered at a much-reduced cost.

The demand for direct cremation is challenging an industry that once did not even feel a need to provide up-front funeral pricing.  Now, cremation consumers are shopping around to compare cremation prices, and seeking out the most affordable direct cremation service they can find.  As within other consumer sectors, why would you opt to pay hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars more, for the exact same product or service?

How much should you expect to pay for a direct cremation?

A direct cremation ranges in cost in any one area.  If you conduct a simple comparison between 5 funeral homes and cremation providers, asking for the cost of a direct cremation from their General Price List, you will see a difference in price.  Especially if you select a range of different providers from the small funeral home to a large corporate funeral home.  In most major cities, a direct cremation can be conducted for between $795 to $995.  Rural areas tend to be more expensive, as there is less competition for the cremation market.

Comparing cremation prices

The chart below highlights the comparison between a DFS Memorials independent low-cost cremation provider and the average cost for a direct cremation in a city.

Click on the city below to call direct to the DFS Memorials provider for that city

AREA DFS Provider direct cremation price Average direct cremation price*
New York City NY $495 $1,969
Los Angeles CA $750 $1,524
Houston TX $640 $2,173
Chicago IL $1,165 $1,949
Philadelphia PA $1,195 $1,798
Phoenix AZ $850 $1,337
San Antonio TX $795 $1,856
San Diego CA $1,195 $1,358
Jacksonville FL $795 $1,648
Dallas-Fort Worth TX $795 $1,944
Indianapolis IN $750 $2,261
Seattle WA $1,195 $1,519
Detroit MI $995 $1,199
Boston MA $1,395 $2,332
Memphis TN $995 $2,060
Oklahoma City OK $945 $1,914
Las Vegas NV $795 $1,526
Louisville KY $750 $1,880
Denver CO $1,195 $1,791

*Average direct cremation price 2023 obtained from Parting Funeral Home Comparison website

Use the map link below to check cremation prices in your city or area.

Are cremation prices likely to rise in 2023?

Cremation planningThe market for cremation services will continue to become more competitive.  Cremation has continued to disrupt the funeral industry in 2023 as this article explains.

Most funeral businesses need to increase their volume of cremation business to sustain their revenue.  This is already leading to cremation ‘price wars’ in some cities, where funeral homes are reducing their direct cremation price to increase their volume of cases.

However, at the same time, we are also witnessing an aggressive approach from corporate funeral entities, who need to acquire their own share of the cremation business.  Corporate death care companies, such as Dignity Memorial and The Neptune Society, can afford to enlist the expertise of professional marketing services and ‘dominate’ in the domain of online advertising and direct mail.  Corporate and privately-owned funeral entities across the U.S. are acquiring successful independent cremation businesses to dominate a cremation market in a specific area.

We observed an example of this recently with Foundation Partners (a privately-owned funeral business with 80 locations in 17 states) acquiring a longstanding family business in Tucson.  The family business had offered the lowest cost direct cremation to families in Tucson and continues to operate under the existing funeral home name.

In the last 6 months, I have witnessed these large funeral entities position themselves to dominate a market, and begin to rise cremation prices in their market area.

Pre-arranging cremation services

Taking out a pre-arrangement cremation plan today could potentially save you on the possibility of rising cremation costs.  A direct cremation plan can be funded by an insurance product or a trust and ensures you lock in today’s prices.  The terms will differ, depending on your state legislation on funeral plans, and your personal circumstances for making payment.

Pre-arrange cremation serviceAn important aspect of pre-arranging a cremation is to pre-authorize the cremation.  For a cremation to proceed, the legal next-of-kin must sign a Cremation Authorization Form.

But, when pre-arranging, you can pre-authorize your wish for cremation.  Saving the surviving family from the decision when the time comes.  Typically, a direct cremation that costs $650 today at-need, would cost approximately $1,200 to pre-plan and pre-pay over 24 months.

Alternatively, you can pre-plan by doing some research to determine an affordable cremation services provider near you, and put aside the required funds for an ‘at-need’ direct cremation in a POD (Payable on Death) account at your bank.  Many funeral service providers are happy to prepare the necessary paperwork for cremation and keep it on file for when the need arises.  This allows you to retain control of your funds for cremation while having made the proper provision for your surviving family.

Read more about pre-planning a cremation or funeral with a POD account.

So, the key ‘take-aways’ from this article are that you should ensure you compare cremation costs before deciding on a cremation service provider and be aware that the cremation market is likely to change over the coming years.

Further information on the impact of the increasing cremation rate in 2023, how COVID-19 has dramatically disrupted the cremation market, and how direct cremation has become the number one option for families, can be found in this article ‘Cremation Costs in 2023: How cremation is disrupting the Funeral Industry.’

Another useful resources is this Ultimate Guide to Cremation from US Funerals Online.

How to arrange a direct cremation service in Peoria, AZ for $850

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The shift to cremation is sweeping across the nation as families demand more affordable death care alternatives.  The lower cost of cremation can make funeral costs significantly lower in Peoria.

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

What is the average cost of a funeral in Peoria?

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 Peoria is $5,517*

So, how do cremation costs compare in Peoria?

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.

However, the price for a direct cremation will vary.  Prices differ between different cremation service providers in Peoria, so it is important to be aware of this and consider doing some price shopping.

The average price for a cremation funeral service in Peoria is $2,657*.

Direct cremation services in Peoria, AZ

Direct cremation is the industry term for a ‘simple cremation.’  Only the cremation service is provided by the funeral home. The funeral home provides no ceremony or funeral services.  The deceased is collected and cremated, and the remains are 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. It can even take the form of an ash-scattering ceremony, interment in a cremation niche, or scattering garden.

A basic direct cremation is available in Peoria for $850, although the average price for a direct cremation is $1,440*. To help families arrange affordable cremation services, we have selected only family-owned cremation service providers who can offer a basic cremation package for just $850.

Read our Complete Guide to Cremation: The Process from the deceased being collected to the Cremated Remains being Returned to the Family.  It will answer any questions you have about cremation services.

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

Green Burial ContainerAre there additional fees added to the $850 cremation package?

In order for a cremation to be conducted, a ‘disposition permit’ must be issued by the county.  At present, there is no charge for this.

Death certificates are an additional cost, as the county issues these 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, and 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.  The legal next of kin must sign a Cremation Authorization Form, and in the case of children, many funeral directors will require all children to 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, 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?

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.

Cremation Memorial ServiceWhat do I do if I cannot even afford a cremation?

There is very little ‘free’ money to help families with funeral costs.   What is available is constantly changing due to budget constraints and varies by county.  Some counties do have a provision to assist needy or low-income families.  Contact Maricopa County DFCS to find out what may be available to you locally. 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 $850 with DFS Memorials is a dignified yet affordable disposition alternative if your family is struggling financially.

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

*Funeral prices obtained from an online funeral price survey website April 2023

Affordable direct cremation service in Long Island, NY

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Direct cremation offers families in Long Island a simple and affordable alternative to the costs associated with a traditional funeral.

This guide should help you understand what options you have for a cremation service in Nassau County, how choosing cremation can save you on funeral costs, and answer some other questions about cremation.

If you have an immediate need for a low-cost cremation service, call your local DFS Memorials provider at (516) 406-8141.  Direct cremation service packages start at $895 in Long Island.

Why choose a cremation service?

The key reason more families are choosing a cremation service is cost.  A cremation service costs significantly less than a traditional burial.  There is no requirement for embalming, and a casket, burial vault, and cemetery plot are not needed.  All of these reduce your overall cost for a funeral by at least half if not two-thirds.

In addition to this, a cremation service offers greater flexibility as a service does not have to be held immediately, or remains can be transported back to a different state if necessary.

Can you still have a funeral service if you choose cremation?

Yes, a cremation funeral is just the same as a traditional funeral. Only the deceased is cremated following the service instead of interred.  If you opt to have a cremation conducted immediately, you can have a service after the cremation with the cremation urn present.  This is known as a Cremation Memorial.

If you opt for a direct cremation in Long Island, you can choose to arrange your own memorial service after the cremated remains are returned to the family.  A direct cremation service is a cremation without a ceremony.  The funeral services provider simply conducts everything to take care of the cremation disposition and then returns your loved one’s ashes directly to you.

To learn more, visit our Guide to Cremation – The Process, Service Options, Legal Requirements, and Cremation Costs.

Questions about cremationWhat does a cremation cost?

This is not a simple question to answer.  The first thing to say is that the cost of a cremation will vary.  It will vary by cremation provider, by what type of cremation service option you select, and prices even vary by area.

In NY state, a funeral service provider is not allowed to operate a crematory, so the crematory fee is always considered a ‘third-party’ fee. It will be added to your funeral home charge for a cremation.

To give you an idea of cremation costs, I can tell you that the average cost for a direct cremation in Nassau County will range from $895 to $2,800, depending on the funeral home you choose.

What legally do you need to know about direct cremation in Long Island?

For a cremation to be legally conducted, it must be authorized by the immediate next of kin.  The funeral director will ask the next of kin to sign a Cremation Authorization Form.  There is generally a 24-72 hour wait period after the death occurred before the cremation can go ahead, although this is mandated differently in different states.

The funeral director will need to obtain permission to cremate from the county coroner and obtain a cremation permit.  Once the waiting period has expired, the cremation authorization form is correctly signed and notarized by the next of kin, and the coroner has issued the cremation permit, the cremation can be scheduled.

It will usually take 7-10 days to arrange a cremation, and the deceased will be sheltered in the funeral home or crematory in refrigerated storage.  If there are delays in completing all the legal paperwork, it can take a little longer.

If the immediate next of kin are siblings (and there is more than one sibling), then all siblings need to sign the authorization form for a cremation to proceed.  This tends to be one of the main reasons that a cremation gets delayed, as there is a disagreement between siblings on authorizing the cremation.

What can you do with the cremated remains?

There is a whole realm of options for how to memorialize with cremated remains.  You can, of course, inter the remains in a cemetery plot or cremation niche…. similar to a burial interment. Other options include: keeping the cremation urn at home, performing an ash-scattering, or having a cremation tribute made from some of the remains.  DFS Memorials offers an optional sea scattering with a direct cremation service for an additional $290.00.

A benefit of cremation is that you do not need to make an immediate decision about the final disposition.  Sometimes it can be easier to hold onto the urn for a while whilst you have time to reflect and consider what is the most befitting disposition.

Is there any financial help for families who cannot afford a funeral?

Sadly, there is little financial support for those families who find themselves in the unfortunate position of losing a loved one and having no funds for a funeral.  What may be available varies so much by area.

You would need to consult with the Nassau County Social Services department.  Therefore, a direct cremation can offer a simple and affordable solution to handling the unexpected disposition of a family member if finances are an issue.

A dignified direct cremation can be conducted for $1,035 (with all fees included), and then the family can arrange to hold their own memorial service.

There is the $255 lump-sum Social Services death benefit payment if the deceased qualifies, which can help towards the cremation cost.

If you need further assistance, check our DFS Memorials Cremation Blog for more articles on cremation.  If you need to arrange a simple and affordable direct cremation in Long Island, contact DFS Memorials at (516) 406-8141.

Affordable cremation services in Staten Island, NY – $495 direct cremation

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Americans are demanding more affordable death care options.  With the high cost of traditional funerals and especially burial plot costs in NYC, cremation is proving an alternative disposition choice that is more affordable. A direct cremation can be arranged for just $495 in Staten Island.

Why is cremation more affordable?

In simple terms, a cremation eliminates several services and funeral products that usually have a high price tag.  You do not need a casket for a cremation service.

Although some funeral homes offer rental caskets if you wish to have a funeral service prior to the cremation.  You do not need a burial vault or cemetery plot, and embalming is not required for cremation.  Eliminating these few things can reduce costs by between $3,000 – $8,000.

Cemetery plots in NYC are expensive due to the shortage of space.  A typical plot can cost around $14,000.  This adds a huge cost to a funeral bill.

What does a cremation cost in Staten Island?

The price of cremation varies.  Firstly, it depends on what type of cremation service you select.  A Cremation Funeral is very like a traditional funeral, but the deceased is cremated after the service, so now the burial plot is required.  A cremation funeral will generally cost from around $3,600 depending on the type of ceremony, the purchase of a casket, and the funeral home selected.

A Cremation Memorial is where the deceased is cremated prior to holding a memorial service with the cremation urn.  This type of cremation service is usually less than a cremation funeral.

What is a direct cremation?

Direct cremation is the industry term for a simple cremation with no ceremony or services.  This is the least expensive cremation option.  The price for a direct cremation in Staten Island differs from different funeral homes, but you can arrange a direct cremation for as little as $495.

Why is the crematory fee added to a funeral home’s direct cremation service fee?

cremation servicesIn NY, a funeral home is not allowed to own and operate a crematory.  All crematories are not-for-profit operations.  This means that a funeral director has to pay the crematory fee as a ‘third-party’ fee and, therefore, must charge the fee separately from his basic service funeral charge.

There are several crematories operating throughout NYC and NJ that funeral homes use, and the prices vary for the crematory fee.  The best-value crematory fee is $140, but the price can be as much as $408, depending on the crematory used.

What additional fees are there to pay for a direct cremation in Staten Island?

There is a $40 NYC cremation permit charge and the cost for the death certificate at $15.  If the deceased passed away at home, there is an additional charge for a residential collection, as this requires an additional person.  The additional fee is $150.

The other additional fee can be the mailing of cremated remains.  The cost to mail the ashes is $40 to mail cremated remains within NYC and $75 to mail outside of the boroughs.

What are the legal requirements for a cremation to proceed?

As cremation is a very final disposition method, there are strict laws that govern the practice. The legal next of kin must sign a ‘Cremation Authorization Form’ before a cremation can proceed.  The funeral director will file for the death certificate and permit to cremate.  Once all this paperwork is in order, the cremation can be scheduled.

What can you do with the cremated remains after the direct cremation?

ash scatteringThe cremated remains are returned immediately to the family after a direct cremation.  The family can choose to hold their own memorial service or ash-scattering service if so desired.  The ashes can be kept at home or interred in a cremation niche or family cemetery plot.

Scattering at sea in Staten Island can be added to a direct cremation package for an additional $290.

For more options about what to do with cremated remains and how to memorialize, check out our Memorialization and What to do with the Cremation Ashes section on the blog.

What if the deceased is at the Medical Examiners?

If the deceased was transferred to the ME, you need the services of a funeral director to collect the deceased and transfer them to the crematory.  This can sometimes be an expedited service as the FD can collect all the permits and paperwork as he or she collects the deceased.

Is there any help with cremation costs in Staten Island?

Unfortunately, more families are finding themselves struggling with funeral expenses these days.  NYC does offer a burial assistance program to NYC residents on low income.  You can download the form from the link here.

There is also the $255 Social Security lump-sum death benefit payment (if the deceased qualified).

Guide to affordable Cremation Services in Long Beach, NY

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Direct Cremation in Long Beach, NYMore families are now choosing cremation services as an alternative to traditional burial in Long Beach.  Here we give you a brief guide to cremation services.  What types of cremation services are available, and how to arrange the most affordable cremation service.

Funerals have typically been expensive, sometimes amounting to over $15,000.  Not including burial plot fees, which can be super expensive in New York due to the lack of cemetery space.

Why Choose Cremation?

Deciding whether to bury or cremate is a personal choice.  For some families, the decision is dictated by the money they have available to pay for a funeral.  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 also selecting cremation as it does offer greater flexibility. The funeral service does not have to go ahead immediately.  Instead, a cremation can be performed, and the immediate disposition of the body dealt with, and then a service held at a later date convenient to the family.

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

What are the average funeral costs in Long Beach?

This is not a simple question to answer, as funeral costs can range significantly depending on the type of services and products selected and the funeral services provider used.  The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) reports that the median cost for a full traditional funeral as of 2022 is $7,848.  This does not include cemetery fees.

cremation costsHow much does a cremation cost in Long Beach?

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 cost of a cremation will depend on what type of cremation service you select.  The most simple cremation can start at $895.  But a full-service cremation will cost upwards of $4,000.

How much is a direct cremation in Long Beach, NY?

A direct cremation can be conducted in Long Beach for as little as $895. 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 now at (516) 406-8141 to arrange a low-cost cremation for $895

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.

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Long Beach

A cremation cannot be performed until the medical examiner’s office issues a cremation permit.  The legal next of kin must sign a Cremation Authorization Form.  There is a mandatory wait period of 24 after death in New York 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 five 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, and there are an array of artifact options these days as cremation has become more popular.

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.

Cremation planThe 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 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. 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 Nassau County Human Services Department at (516) 227-8519.

If the deceased is at the Morgue

Suppose the deceased was the victim of a crime, or there were unusual circumstances surrounding the death. In that case, 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 of liaising with the Medical Examiner 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: 2251 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow, NY 11554 Phone: (516) 572-6400

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 Long Beach, NY.  If you need to research more information on funeral planning, please visit the Funeral Resources section on US Funerals Online.

Arranging an affordable cremation service in Daphne, AL

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If you need to arrange a simple and affordable cremation, we have put together this guide to help you.  In fact, you can arrange a simple, basic cremation for just $1,730.

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Daphne is $6,930*, and this does not include cemetery costs, so it is understandable that many families today are looking for 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 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 three main types of cremation service options.  A Cremation Funeral – is 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 three 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 Daphne?

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 $3,817, depending upon the length of service held and what kind of casket you purchase or rent.  Although a direct cremation package can be conducted for just $1,730 with DFS Memorials.

Direct cremation services in Daphne, AL

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 to 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 Daphne at (251) 206-5572, who offers a complete direct cremation package for just $1,730.

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 Daphne, AL

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.

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 a given time frame? 

Death certificates cost $15.00 for the first certificate and $6 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 Daphne?

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 Alabama, 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 are not generally included in a quoted cremation price.  The funeral director will generally obtain the death certificates on your behalf.

Can I preplan a cremation?

Yes, you can prearrange a cremation.  Advance planning can help to ensure you get the most appropriate services provider for your needs and can save the surviving family the financial and emotional burden at the time of death.

There are various options open to you to plan ahead, so consult with your preferred services provider.  A pre-arranged direct cremation plan can be preplanned at a low cost to ensure your family does not have the burden of worrying about funeral costs.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

As I mentioned earlier, there is versatility in 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.

TCremation Memorial Servicehe 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. However, this can vary county by county.

You would need to make inquiries with Baldwin County Human Services Department at 22259 Palmer Street, Robertsdale, AL 36567, 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 $1,730.

What is “no-cost cremation”?

Some funeral homes now offer this option in Daphne.  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.

How do I obtain a copy of a death certificate?

You can obtain copies of a death certificate from the Vital Records office at 22251 Palmer Street, P.O, Drawer 369, Robertsdale, Alabama, 36567. Phone: (251) 947-3618

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

Suppose there were circumstances surrounding the death that led to the deceased being taken to the County Coroner’s office. In that case, 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.

Baldwin County Coroner 18126 County Rd 54, Robertsdale, AL 36567

Hopefully, this short guide to arranging an affordable cremation service in Daphne 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 Funeral Resources section on US Funerals Online.

*Prices obtained from online funeral price comparison survey 2023

 

Arranging an affordable cremation service in Miramar, FL

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Do you need to arrange an affordable direct cremation service?  We have put together this article to help you understand how you can save money arranging a funeral.  In fact, you can arrange a simple, direct cremation for just $995!

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Miramar can be around $10,000+, and this does not include cemetery costs.

So it is understandable that many families today are looking for 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.

Cremation vs. burial?

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 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 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.

Cremation Service Miramar FLHow much does a cremation cost in Miramar?

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 direct cremation package can be conducted for just $995 with DFS Memorials.

Direct cremation services in Miramar, FL

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 to collect (or can be 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 Miramar at (954) 932-3363, 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 Miramar, FL

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.

DFS Memorials offer a direct cremation service for just $995.

Check out our Complete Guide to Cremation or our Guide to Cremation Costs in Florida to learn more about cremation services and cremation costs.

When comparing costs and services, check what IS included, especially with a budget direct cremation package.  Is a copy of the death certificate included?  Is the cremation permit an additional cash advance item or included?  What about if an out-of-hours collection is required? Is there an additional daily refrigeration charge if the cremation does not proceed after 48 hours?

Death certificates cost $20.00, and one copy is included in the $995 direct cremation package.  Additional copies can be requested for $20.00 extra per copy.

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

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 Florida, there is a mandatory 24-hour wait period after death before the cremation can proceed. Before 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.

Death certificates and permits are considered ‘cash advance’ items and are not always included in a quoted cremation price.

Can I preplan a cremation?

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

What can we do with the cremated remains?

As I mentioned earlier, there is versatility in 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.

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 Broward County Human Services Department at (954) 357-6385 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.

What is “no-cost cremation”? Body donation with a free cremation.

Some funeral homes now offer this option in Miramar.  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.

To discuss arranging an anatomical whole-body donation with a free cremation in Florida, call Craig at (833) 402-9077.

How do I obtain a copy of a death certificate?

You can obtain copies of a death certificate from the Vital Records office at 780 SW 24 Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315 Phone: 954-467-4700

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 at Broward County Coroner, 5301 SW 31st Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312.

Hopefully, this short guide to arranging an affordable cremation service in Miramar 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 Resources section on US Funerals Online.

5 Funeral Trends that are changing death care traditions as we know them

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The funeral industry is experiencing an era of change in the 21st century.  It is probably the most seismic change the death care business has experienced for over two centuries.  A once very traditional and stoic industry is being affected by shifts in consumer demand. So, what funeral trends are happening?  And how are they affecting funeral homes and funeral consumers?

Funeral & Cremation Trends 2018#1  The demand for affordable cremation

Cremation has soared in popularity in the last ten years and, in the last three years, has moved to become the preferred option for the majority of Americans, with the cremation rate reaching 58% last year and set to reach 80% by 2030, according to Cremation Association of North America (CANA).

Although some families choose cremation with a funeral or memorial service, the demand for direct cremation as a simple, no-fuss, and affordable funeral alternative is making up the core of the cremation business.

Providers in the DFS Memorials Affordable Cremation Network report that up to 80% of cremation cases they handle are now direct cremation cases.

#2  An interest in eco-friendlier funeral alternatives

There appears to be a growing interest (especially in certain states) in eco-friendlier funeral options.  Many consider cremation eco-friendlier than a traditional burial, with embalming fluids, concrete, and steel being buried into the earth.

Some families still opt for burial and are considering natural burial, and even traditional cemeteries are adding hybrid green burial sections to cater to this demand.

Visit this Green Burial Directory on US Funerals Online to locate Green Cemeteries near you.

#3  A break away from convention in rituals

Society is changing, and how we approach life rituals is part of that change.  There have been changes in our attitudes to how we approach births for some time now, with a greater interest in natural birthing processes.  Some families have moved away from a somber funeral ritual to choose a Life Celebration event instead, breaking the convention of a traditional funeral service.

#4  A Preference for more Personalization in Memorialization

Personalization has become quite the ‘buzz’ concept of culture today.  We all look for myriad ways to personalize our lives.  We personalize our daily lives and possessions to stamp our identity, so why not choose to host a funeral that exemplifies this quality of personalization?

This trend has meant that funeral homes are having to adapt to cater to personalized services. And even accept that families may now opt NOT to use their chapel or funeral home for a memorial service but prefer to host their own memorial tribute service at a different venue.

Check out our Guide to Memorialization and Cremation Tribute Ideas.

#5  A return to the 19th century concept of family-led funerals

Back in the day, an undertaker was largely just responsible for making a coffin and burying the deceased.  The family would prepare their loved ones and lay them to rest in the parlor, holding a vigil at home to mourn their departed family member.

Eventually, the business of undertaking extended to funeral parlors and, today, funeral homes and funeral directors.

However, there is a trend affecting the funeral industry today, where more families are wishing to conduct a ‘DIY’ funeral for their loved one instead of just using a funeral home to conduct everything.

There are 10 states that DO require a family to employ a funeral director to conduct funeral services and handle a deceased’s body. 

But that still leaves 40 states where a family can, if they so choose, opt to handle the funeral services themselves.  Several organizations nationwide support families who wish to conduct a family-led funeral.

These 5 trends are changing an industry that has been very traditional for many decades.  Some businesses recognize these changes and adapt to meet the demand.  But for some in the industry, these trends are presenting them with challenges.

What does cremation cost in Palm Bay, FL – just $1,095

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Funerals do not need to be expensive affairs.  Cremation offers a simple, dignified, and affordable alternative to traditional burial in Palm Bay.

If you need to arrange a funeral on a limited budget, then a direct cremation can offer a low-cost funeral option.

Direct cremation costs just $1,095 in Palm Bay.  This is a cremation service without any ceremony offered by the funeral service provider.  However, the family can choose to hold a memorial service after the cremated remains are returned.

The DFS Memorials provider, Mortuary Services of Florida, is a licensed Direct Disposer Establishment as licensed by the Florida State Board F438949.  Licensed to conduct direct cremations only.

What is the average cost of a funeral in Palm Bay?

These days we are discerning consumers, very mindful of costs, and people are now realizing they can price-shop for funeral services.  Why should we not ask how much it costs?  The Internet offers a great tool to research funeral costs from the comfort of your own home.

Unfortunately, not all funeral homes have websites or put their prices online, so we have put this guide together to outline the average funeral and cremation costs in Palm Bay for you.

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Palm Bay is $6,595*

So how do cremation costs compare in Palm Bay?

Cremation offers a cheaper and more flexible alternative to a traditional burial and can 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 Palm Bay is $5,182*.

Direct cremation services in Palm Bay, FL

Direct cremation is the industry term for a ‘simple cremation’.  The funeral home or direct disposer provides only the cremation service. No ceremony or funeral services are provided.  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. It can even take the form of an ash-scattering ceremony, interment in a cremation niche, or scattering garden.

A basic direct cremation is available in Palm Bay for $1,095, although the average price for a direct cremation is $1,790.   To help families arrange affordable cremation services, we have selected a licensed direct disposal establishment that can offer an affordable, simple cremation package.

Direct cremation means a family can manage to conduct dignified funeral services for as little as $1,095.

Call now at (321) 215-4844 now to arrange a low-cost cremation

Are there any additional fees to the simple cremation package?

For a cremation to be conducted, the county must issue a ‘disposition permit’.

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 $5 for the first certificate and $4 for each additional copy issued.

Potential additional charges could be incurred if the deceased weighs over 250 pounds or has a pacemaker that must be removed prior to the cremation.

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. Read this Ultimate Guide to Cremation 2023 for more information.

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

Cremation is such a final disposition, and 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 to 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, 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 enable you to disperse the ashes between several family members or 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?

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.

cremation servicesHow 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 Florida, there is a mandatory 48-hour wait period after death before a cremation can be conducted.

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

There is very little ‘free’ money to help families with funeral costs.   What is available is constantly changing due to budget constraints and varies by county.  Some counties do have a provision to assist needy or low-income families.  Contact Brevard county DFCS to find out what may be available to you locally at (321) 633-2007.

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 $1,095 with DFS Memorials is a dignified yet affordable disposition alternative if your family is struggling financially.

If you have further questions about cremation, feel free to call us at (321) 215-4844, and we will be happy to try and help you.

*funeral prices obtained from Funeralocity 2022