What if I should die whilst traveling away from home? Funeral Planning with Travel Protection?

Posted on November 9, 2020 by Sara Marsden

Did you know that 80% of Americans (over the age of 18) now travel 100 miles or more away from their home on trips that last one night or more? We have now become a nation that travels. Be this to relocate for education, employment, family or just to enjoy the adventures of traveling.

We are all increasingly becoming more mobile in our global society, but the alarming aspect of this is that not many of us make suitable provision for the ‘what if’s’ or the risk of incidents that can occur whilst we are traveling.

Health and travel insurance cover may cover incidental medical expenses, but are you adequately covered should you die away from home and wish to have your remains repatriated? The repatriation of mortal remains can be extremely costly. Read more to find out how you can protect yourself, and provide peace of mind for your family, for a one-time payment of $450.

Taking out a Travel Protection Plan is the ideal way to ensure your funeral needs can be met, wherever you are, without the expensive cost of repatriation of remains. The plan covers the repatriation of the deceased to a local funeral home, and funeral or cremation arrangements.

Do you travel away from your main residence?

If you are a frequent traveler, be it for business or as a retiree, and you regularly travel over 100 miles from your home, you should consider taking out an inexpensive Travel Protection Plan (TPP).

A travel protection assurance plan will give you peace of mind that should anything happen to you whilst you are away, your plan will cover the repatriation of your remains, or funeral services at the place of death.

Are you a retiree, or snowbird, who winters in another state or country?

Over 50% of international travel is carried out by seniors today. Our baby boomer generation has always been adventurous and has carried this passion into their retirement by embracing the opportunity to travel overseas in their retirement.

Aside from overseas travelers, many retirees are choosing to winter in the southern states and enjoy a warmer winter climate. This means there are a greater number of seniors spending considerable time away from their primary residence.

Due to the nature of more affordable medical treatments in some neighboring countries, people are even traveling to obtain medical and surgical procedures not covered by their medical health insurance.

So, whether you travel for pleasure, business, or medical reasons, it is well worth checking what coverage you have in the event that something should happen overseas.

An unexpected death can be very upsetting and overwhelming to deal with, but in the event, that it should happen whilst you are traveling and away from home and family, it can be even more daunting to try and make the necessary arrangements.

What is a Travel Protection Plan?

The Travel Protection Plan offered through DFS Memorials LLC is a travel assurance policy specifically aimed at covering death whilst traveling and the repatriation of mortal remains. The policy offers either the repatriation of remains from the place of death to a local funeral home or a cremation performed at the place of death and then the cremated remains returned to the family.

It is a simple and inexpensive ‘protection’ policy that covers something many of us do not really want to think about or can find ourselves inadequately covered for.

How are you covered by a travel assurance plan?

The TPP is an assurance product. The policy is purchased with a one-time fee for the policy of $450. The reason this coverage is inexpensive is that although many people will invest in this type of assurance policy, a very small number ever find themselves needing to use it, so it can be offered at a very reasonable cost. Once you take out a policy, you have a unique policy number and a credit-card-sized membership card is issued with contact information.

You should carry this plastic membership with you when you travel, as it has your policy number and the contact information to enact your policy. It is also advisable to ensure your legal next of kin as aware of your TPP and have a copy of the details.

What is covered by a travel assurance plan?

The travel assurance plan covers the policyholder in the event of death occurring whilst traveling. The death must occur 75+ miles away from the policy-holder’s legal residence in the U.S. or Canada. It provides an affordable ‘peace of mind’ for the policyholder, and family, that in the event an unexpected death may occur whilst the policyholder is not residing in their main residence, all costs associated with the repatriation of the remains and/or cremation, will be taken care of. For one low lifetime fee of $450, this policy covers against potential repatriation of remains costs that can reach $10,000-$20,000.

How would I benefit from purchasing a Travel Protection Plan?

As mentioned above, if you travel frequently, or spend some considerable time away from your main residence, you will benefit from the ‘peace of mind’ this policy will give you and your family.

Repatriation of mortal remains is much more expensive than people realize. Returning mortal remains domestically can cost upwards of $3,600 and international repatriation of remains can cost as much as $20,000. This simple Travel Protection Plan at the low cost of $450 could save your family thousands on the cost of returning remains home.

Even, if at the time of death family opt for a cremation at the place of death, this can still amount to a few thousand dollars.

You also have the support of a team of dedicated staff familiar with the complicated legal aspects of transporting mortal remains, and/or planning arrangements with funeral homes in another state or country.

Many travel insurance or medical insurance plans will provide coverage for repatriation for medivac in the event of a medical emergency overseas, but repatriation coverage for mortal remains is often an ‘add on’ aspect at an additional cost.

How much can I save by ensuring I have a Travel Protection Plan?

You can save thousands of dollars. For a one-time payment of $450 you give your family protection for your lifetime in the event, something unforeseen or tragic should happen whilst you are traveling or spending time away from your home. A couple’s plan is available for a fee of $875.

How do I purchase the Travel Protection Plan?

Any age can apply for a TPP. Visit our dedicated enrollment page below.

We will send you an electronic version of the policy document for you to sign and a link to make payment. Once you submit your signed form and one-time payment, your policy will be issued. There are NO further payments at all.

Your policy will be issued and a membership card and paperwork mailed to your US legal residence.

How to arrange a direct cremation service in Peoria, AZ for $725

Posted on July 1, 2020 by N. G Pelling

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.

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

What is the average cost of a funeral in 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

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

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

A basic direct cremation is available in Peoria for $725, 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 services providers who can offer a basic cremation package for just $725.

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

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

Are there are additional fees to the $725 cremation package?

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

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

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

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

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

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

What can you do with the cremated remains?

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

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

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.

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

There is very little ‘free’ money to help families with funeral costs. What is available is constantly changing due to budget constraints, and varies by county. Some counties do have a provision to assist needy or low-income families. Contact Maricopa county DFCS to find out what may be available to you locally. Phone: (602) 506-5911

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

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

*Funeral prices obtained from online funeral price survey website September 2018

Simple cremation service in Owensboro, KY – Just $975

Posted on June 20, 2020 by N. G Pelling

Do you need to know how to arrange a dignified funeral at an affordable cost? We have put together this short guide to help you understand how you can save thousands of dollars arranging a funeral. In fact, you can arrange a simple, basic cremation for just $975.

A funeral can be expensive. Indeed the average cost of a traditional funeral in Owensboro is $7,451*. This does not include cemetery costs. So it is understandable that many families today are looking for more affordable alternatives. Cremation is fast 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?

Price:

Cremation can be a personal choice. Or the only choice if finances for a disposition are very limited. Opting for cremation WILL save you $$$. A cremation is likely to cost at least half the cost of a full-service burial. A direct cremation is the most economical cremation option. In most areas, a simple direct cremation can be conducted for under $1,000.

Flexibility:

Arranging an immediate cremation can alleviate the need to rush to try and arrange a funeral service. If families are dispersed, a direct cremation can be conducted without next of kin having to travel to make arrangements. Memorial services can be held at any date after the death.

What different cremation alternatives do I have?

There are 3 basic types of cremation options. Cremation funeral – where the funeral service is held with the deceased present and a cremation is conducted after the service. Cremation memorial – the cremation is conducted before a memorial service is held. This can be with, or without, the cremated remains present. Or 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 Owensboro?

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 $4,325, depending upon the length of service held and what kind of casket you purchase or rent. The average cost of a direct cremation is $2,410*, although a direct cremation package can be conducted for just $975 with DFS Memorials.

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 Owensboro, KY

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.

If 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 $6.00 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 Owensboro?

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 Kentucky, there is a mandatory 48-hour wait period after death before the cremation can proceed. Before a cremation can go ahead the doctor must sign and fill out the cause of death, and the county health department must issue a permit to cremate. The deceased will be refrigerated during this period, and longer if required, however, you should be aware that many cremation packages will only include refrigeration for up to 5 days and will charge you a daily rate thereon.

Death certificates and permits are considered ‘cash advance’ items and not generally included in a quoted cremation price. The funeral director will generally obtain the death certificates on your behalf.

Can I preplan a cremation?

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

What can we do with the cremated remains?

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

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 Daviess County Human Services Department at: (270) 685-8424 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.

How do I obtain a copy of a death certificate?

You can obtain copies of a death certificate from the Vital Records office at 212 St. Ann Street, Rm 105 Owensboro, KY 42302-0389 (270) 685-8434

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.

Daviess County Coroner, 212 St Ann St # 204, Owensboro, KY 42303 Phone: 270-685-8428

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

Arranging an affordable cremation service in Daphne, AL – Just $1,195

Posted on December 21, 2019 by N. G Pelling

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 $1,195!

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 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.

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 $1,195 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 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 Daphne on (251) 206-5572 who offers a complete direct cremation package for just $1,195.

How do I choose a cremation services provider?

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

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 in 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?

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.

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?

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 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 -ost direct cremation from DFS Memorials can be arranged for $1,195.

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. 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: 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?

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 library section on US Funerals Online.

*Prices obtained from online funeral price comparison survey 2018

Guide to Affordable Cremation in Wheaton, IL – $995 direct cremation

Posted on October 31, 2019 by N. G Pelling

Do you need to save money on funeral costs? If you are looking for a simple and inexpensive alternative to the expense of burial, then consider arranging a simple cremation in Wheaton for just $995.

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

How funeral care is changing and economic reasons for choosing cremation

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

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

How much does a funeral cost in Wheaton?

This is not a simple question to answer as funeral costs can range significantly depending on the type of services and products selected, and the funeral services provider used. The average cost of a funeral in Wheaton is $7,670*.

How much does a cremation cost in Wheaton?

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

It is important to state that cremation prices in Wheaton DO vary quite considerably between funeral homes, and depending on what type of cremation service you opt for. Not all funeral homes have their own crematory but will use the services of a local crematory. The average cost of a cremation memorial is $4,870*, however, it is possible to find much lower-priced cremation services in Wheaton.

How much is a direct cremation in Wheaton, IL?

A basic cremation can be conducted in Wheaton for as little 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.

How to compare cremation costs in Wheaton, 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.

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

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

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Wheaton

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

Preplanning an affordable cremation service

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

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

It is sadly a reality that more folks are passing without leaving the means to pay for their funeral.

If you are faced with this situation, you need to explore what help may be available to you. Social Security 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 DuPage County Human Services Department at:

Jack T. Knuepfer Bldg. 421 N. County Farm Road Wheaton, IL 60187 Phone: (630) 407-6300

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: 414 N County Farm Rd, Wheaton, IL 60187

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 Wheaton, IL. If you need to research more information on funeral-planning, please visit the Library section on US Funerals Online.

*Funeral prices obtained from Parting funeral price comparison survey 2019

How to arrange a low cost cremation in Vancouver, BC

Posted on October 23, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

Do you need to arrange a low-cost cremation in Vancouver? Worried about the expense of arranging a funeral? And looking for more alternative options?

At DFS Memorials we can help you save on funeral costs, whilst still ensuring you are dealing with a local, family-owned funeral business. We offer an affordable ‘no-fuss’ direct cremation at one of the lowest prices in Vancouver.

How much should I expect to pay for a cremation?

More families are using the Internet to research cremation prices these days. However, it can still be confusing as there is either a lack of pricing information from funeral homes or confusing information where prices seem different.

A direct cremation is the most simple and affordable cremation service. This is cremation with no ceremony before cremation. The deceased is cremated and the cremation ashes returned directly to the family. A direct cremation can be arranged for as little as $845 in Vancouver. Call now on (778) 608-2808 if you need immediate (or imminent) assistance with a low-cost direct cremation.

Comparing the cost of cremation in vancouver

We compared the price for a direct cremation from a number of funeral service providers in Vancouver. As you can see from the chart below, the costs do range considerably. The most expensive direct cremation service we found was with Forest lawn Funeral Home at $4,120.

Compare direct cremation prices in Vancouver

Funeral Home or Cremation Service Provider	Direct Cremation cost
DFS Memorials	$845
A Basic Cremation	$920
Affordable Cremation & Burial	$1,067
Oliveiera Funeral Home	$1,350
Koru Cremation	$1,685
McKenzie Funeral Services	$1,705
Vancouver Memorial Services & Crematorium	$2,015
Mount Pleasant Universal Funeral Home	$2,780

Understanding the laws for arranging a cremation in BC

Because cremation is such a final disposition of human remains, certain provincial laws dictate how and when a cremation can proceed. B.C. law requires that at least 48-hours transpire after the death before a cremation can take place.

Who can authorize a cremation?

The legal next of kin must have all (if more than one) signed & notarized a document to authorize cremation. If pre-arranging a cremation, you can sign and authorize your wishes ahead of time.

Who is responsible for paying for a cremation funeral?

The responsibility for funeral expenses rests with the legal next of kin unless the deceased had a pre-paid funeral plan.

Do you need a casket for a cremation service?

The body does need to be contained in a suitable, rigid, leak-proof container for sanitary purposes. However, a casket is NOT required. Generally, for cremation, a wooden or reinforced cardboard container is used.

What can you do with the cremated remains in Vancouver?

Cremated remains are sterile, organic matter and there are many versatile options on what you can do with the remains. Cremation ashes can be interred in a cremation niche, or existing grave plot. Or you can choose to keep the cremation urn at home or scatter the remains in a place of your choosing. Due to the versatility of cremation, and how cremated remains can be mingled into products, there is also a range of cremation artifacts you can purchase to memorialize a loved one. Anything from jewellry, birdbaths, glassware, and paintings!

What if the deceased is in the care of the Coroner in Vancouver, BC?

If your loved one died unattended or was in an accident, the death will fall under the jurisdiction of the Office of the Chief Coroner. Once the Coroner has signed off on the cause of death, the body will be released to a funeral home, and cremation can be arranged.

The Regional Director of the OCM is based at Metrotower II Suite 800, 4720 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 4N2

I have no money for a funeral. What can I do? Funeral assistance for families in Vancouver.

In British Columbia, there is some assistance to help families cover necessary funeral costs if there are no resources in the deceased’s estate or from any of the ‘responsible’ next of kin. Co-funding may also be available if the resources from the deceased’s estate cannot meet the full funeral expenses. There is not a requirement to be recipients of BC Employment and Assistance. Full information about eligibility and claiming can be found here on the official website of the Government of British Columbia on Funeral Costs. You may be able to claim the basic cost of a cremation in Vancouver.

Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) and cremation services

British Columbia permits medical assistance to end intolerable suffering for those patients who wish to go ahead with physician-assisted euthanasia. Vancouver Coastal Health Authority has a designated person to assist individuals and their families. If cremation is requested, this can be pre-arranged in conjunction with arrangements with the health authority, to ensure your loved one is immediately transferred into the care of the funeral home.

A complete basic cremation package costs just $845

To ask any questions or to start making arrangements call now on (778) 608-2808

DFS Memorials complete cremation at $845 is available to all residents of the Greater Vancouver area including Abbotsford, Burnaby, Chilliwack, Coquitlam, Delta, Kamloops, Kelowna, Langley, Maple Ridge, Nanaimo, New Westminster, North Vancouver, Port Coquitlam Prince, George, Richmond, Saanich, Surrey, and Victoria.

Arbor Memorial is the largest corporate death company in Canada with several locations in and around the Greater Vancouver Metro area. Arbor Memorial also operates some cremation brands, as does Service Corporation International with Cremation Direct Canada.

How to arrange a green burial in Atlanta, GA for $1,895

Posted on October 22, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

Are you considering a greener alternative for your end-of-life wishes? It seems more of us are now engaged with the environment and are looking for eco-friendlier options in many life choices. This article can explain how to arrange a green burial in Atlanta.

According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), a recent survey indicated that 54% of Americans would consider a green funeral. By all accounts, there has been a shift in funeral trends over the last decade. A move away from expensive, traditional funerals and a move towards greener, simpler and more affordable funeral alternatives.

A traditional funeral would cost (on average) around $7,365 (NFDA) without any cemetery costs included. More families are struggling financially to meet funeral expenses in today’s economic climate, and cremation has gained popularity in the last 10 years. Cremation was considered to offer a ‘greener’ alternative to traditional burial. And it is way more affordable. A typical direct cremation service costs between $995 and $3,000 in and around Atlanta.

Why opt for a green funeral or natural burial?

But why this changing shift towards natural burial options? The environment and the climate crisis has been a growing concern in society, especially over the last few years. The big shift towards cremation has, I believe, been positioned to us by the funeral industry as it still gave them some power and control over our death-care options. We needed a cheaper alternative to expensive traditional funerals.

But now more Americans are considering the carbon footprint of a cremation. And if there is a more natural, and less detrimental option for disposition, we are open to consider it.

In 2017, a study conducted at the request of the City of Paris found that traditional burials generate, on average, 833 kilograms (or almost 1 ton) of carbon dioxide, nearly the equivalent of a round-trip flight between Paris and New York. Cremation produces an average of 233 kilograms (500 pounds). A natural ‘green’ burial can eliminate the majority of any emissions, and if combined with replanting trees and natural vegetation, can even help to reverse greenhouse gases.

What is considered a green funeral or natural burial?

The concept of a natural burial is to lay the body to rest returning to the earth in a natural state of recomposing. No embalming fluids are used in preserving the body. After death, the deceased can be kept on dry ice, or in refrigerated storage, until the burial can proceed.

The body is buried in a simple wicker casket that is bio-degradable, a simple pine box (with no metal) or even just a burial shroud. There are no concrete vaults. A burial plot is dug and the body laid to rest.

Some green burial sites are nature preserves where trees or local shrubs are planted to help regenerate and conserve. The natural burial sites and conservation burial sites are offering the ‘true’ future of natural organic death-care. Although, many existing traditional cemeteries in Georgia have added a green division to their grounds to appeal to the growing demand for green burial. These are what are known as hybrid cemeteries.

To learn more about green burial sites and memorializing a natural burial, visit the guide to green funerals on US Funerals Online.

Natural burial vs. Cremation

Direct cremation will cost you around $1,000 and a green funeral starts at around $2,000. If you employ the services of a funeral director, there will also be their professional service charge to add to the natural burial plot fee. However, as Georgia allows families to conduct their own home funeral or DIY funeral care, you do not necessarily need to employ a funeral director.

How much does a green burial cost in Atlanta, GA?

A green burial can save you money on funeral costs. Typically a green burial will save you 40% on the cost of a traditional burial. Our affiliate green funeral provider in Atlanta charges $1,895 for a green burial service. This does not include the burial container, but a range of biodegradable caskets and shrouds are available.

If you have questions about arranging a green burial,

please call us on (470) 206-0404 and we will be happy to assist you.

Where can I have a green burial in Atlanta?

There are two bespoke Natural Burial sites around Atlanta. Milton Fields in Milton and Honey Creek Woodlands in Conyers. There is also Eco-Eternity Forest north of Atlanta in Dahlonega but only cremated remains can be interred in the forest.

Milton Woods was established in 1984 by Jim Bell on 17 acres. There is a capacity for 4,000 burial plots on the meadowland. Burial plot prices start at around $1,695.

Honey Creek Woodlands is a 2,300-acre nature preserve in Conyers operated by a Monastery. A burial plot here costs $2,500.

You can pre-purchase a burial plot at either green burial site with a small down-payment.

Arranging a simple cremation service for $945 – Tulsa, OK

Posted on October 17, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

If you need to arrange a simple and affordable funeral, you may be considering a cremation service. More families today are choosing cremation as a funeral option.

You may have questions about cremation services and costs, so we have put together this short guide to give you an overview of cremation services in Tulsa.

If you have the immediate need for a low-cost direct cremation, call your local DFS Memorials provider now on (918) 205-2141.

Why choose cremation?

We are hearing the phrase “we just want a simple cremation” so often today. Simplicity is a key aspect. The notion of traditional funeral rituals is diminishing. Families are choosing cremation because it is much more affordable than a traditional burial service. You can save thousands of dollars. No cemetery plot, burial vault or casket is required. There is no need (or requirement) for embalming. So, eliminating these products and services saves you around $5,000.

Cremation can also offer more flexibility in arranging funeral services. Instead of a funeral having to go ahead immediately, a cremation can be conducted, and a memorial service held at a later date (and place).

Also, as people have become more mobile, some family members can pass away from their home state, and it may be easier (and more affordable) to conduct a cremation service at the place of death. Transportation can then be arranged for the cremated remains.

What do you need to know about the legal aspect of cremation?

If you choose cremation, there are some legal requirements that must be complied with. Before cremation can proceed, the legal next of kin must sign a ‘Cremation Authorization Form’. If the deceased had made pre-arrangements he or she may have already authorized a cremation disposition.

If there is any disagreement between siblings or legal next of kin, this may prevent a cremation from going ahead.

You will also be asked to fill out a Personal Information Form for the deceased. This provides the information for the death certificate. It is important to double-check all the information is correct, as once issued, it is very difficult to have a death certificate amended.

The death certificate is obtained by the funeral director, and you can request additional copies if required. Once all the authorizations are complete, the cremation permit will be issued by Tulsa County.

How much does a cremation cost?

Credit: Parting.com

This is a question we are all asking now, but funeral directors will often avoid giving a definitive answer to it. There are different types of cremation services. A funeral cremation with a ceremony held at the funeral home is going to cost more than a simple direct cremation service. The average price for a cremation memorial in Tulsa is priced at $2,855. This is when the cremation is performed first and a memorial service held with the cremated remains.

A direct cremation is the least expensive, and simplest cremation option. The cremation is carried out, but no ceremony or services are provided by the funeral home. The deceased is collected, sheltered, the paperwork is completed and then the cremation is conducted. The cremated remains are returned directly to the family.

A memorial service can be held by the family at a later date. The best price for a direct cremation in Tulsa is $945.

What if the deceased is at the Medical Examiners?

If your loved one was taken into the care of the Medical Examiner and you wish to arrange a cremation, you will still need to employ the services of a funeral director.

Only a licensed funeral director can collect a body from the coroner. You may need to visit the ME’s office to identify the body. Once the Medical Examiner has signed-off of the cause of death, the death certificate and cremation permit will be issued.

The Office of the Medical Examiner is located at 1115 W 17th Street, Tulsa, OK 74107. Phone (918) 295-3400.

What if we have no money for a funeral?

Unfortunately, more families are finding themselves struggling with unexpected funeral expenses these days. According to CNBC (July 2019) “many Americans can’t afford a $400 emergency” without going into debt (or further debt). There is limited financial help for families. Medicaid can offer some support, and Tulsa County Social Services has a program to assist with indigent burials. The department can be reached on (918) 596-5560.

Tulsa County Social Services, 2401 Charles Page Blvd, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74127

If you have further questions about cremation services in Tulsa, check out this Oklahoma Guide to Funeral Planning, or feel free to contact us.

3 Tips for Choosing a Cremation Service Provider

Posted on October 15, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

Choosing a cremation service provider can seem overwhelming if you have not had any prior experience handling cremation arrangements. Trying to get pricing is not always simple. Many funeral homes will not even provide their cremation pricing online, and it can even be difficult to extract a clear price when you phone them.

We have put together these 3 tips to help you best choose a cremation service provider to serve you.

#1 Price & value for money

Saving on cremation costs Although many funeral homes do not like the fact, most families today shop for cremation with cost as an important factor. We are so used to price comparison as a means to shop today. And why should that not apply to procure a service such as a cremation? Cheapest is not always best, but value for money or ‘best value’ is a way to ensure we get good value for our money.

A direct cremation service package is a fixed package. It should be pretty much the same from every funeral provider, but many will add additional items that are included in the ‘small print’.

So tip 1 is to ensure you are comparing like-for-like cremation services when choosing a cremation service provider. You should ask what the price quoted includes, and what it does not include. What can appear at a cheaper price online, can often be a ‘bait and switch’ tactic. So ensure you clarify exactly what is included in the price before you contract any services. A licensed funeral home must have a set General Price List (GPL) and according to funeral legislation MUST disclose prices to you when you make an inquiry. Every GPL has a direct cremation service listed on it.

#2 Location & availability

Arrange a cremation online If you require a meeting to make arrangements or wish to have a ceremony, then the location of your cremation service provider can be very important.

This will determine your selection process. However, if you are out of the area where the death occurred and are making arrangements, or wish to conduct a direct cremation service, then location is not as relevant. You may wish to select a provider who has a service area that covers the location of the deceased without additional transport fees. But pretty much a direct cremation can all be handled with online or phone arrangements.

Although I personally like the idea of the functionality to make arrangements online through a web portal, this is not for everyone. And, I think it is vitally important that you have already established the availability and responsiveness of the cremation company. Leading on to tip #3.

#3 Trust

You must establish that you are working with a trustworthy cremation company. How they deal with your inquiry can go a long way to reassuring you what type of company they are, and what their customer service is like. Especially if you are using a funeral home that you have no experience with. If the person answering your call is not clear about answering your questions or providing a cremation price, this should probably ring an alarm bell!

Apart from speaking with a funeral director or funeral arranger, you can check out other sources to establish trust. Reviews are the main source we use today to establish trust, but online reviews today can be very subjective. Especially if there is not a substantial amount of reviews to qualify the level of service. Also, reviewing something like a funeral service can be a difficult (and not popular) option for reviewing.

Cremation Memorial Service Speaking on the phone, and having some specific questions to ask, can help you decide if the company appears professional and reassure you.

Checking how up-to-date the company’s website is, and what information is disclosed online, can also be another way to validate their reputation.

There are more funeral homes now operating a separate direct cremation brand online. If you want a best-value direct cremation service, then you may need to be prepared to make arrangements online. This is how some funeral homes are able to offer a value direct cremation package but keeping their overhead costs down for this service.

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about choosing a cremation provider. DFS Memorials has selected a network of funeral and cremation companies to work with that all offer a ‘best value’ cremation service to their communities.

Cremation costs in 2019: How much should you pay for a direct cremation service?

Posted on October 2, 2019 by Sara Marsden

Over 55% 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 2019 is the impact of cremation in terms of pricing.

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 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 handle the collection of the deceased, complete the required legal administration, and perform 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 large corporate funeral home. In most major cities, a direct cremation can be conducted for between $595 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.

AREA	DFS Provider direct cremation price	Average direct cremation price*
New York City NY	$485	$1,969
Los Angeles CA	$625	$1,524
Houston TX	$640	$2,173
Chicago IL	$995	$1,949
Philadelphia PA	$1,095	$1,798
Phoenix AZ	$725	$1,337
San Antonio TX	$595	$1,856
San Diego CA	$600	$1,358
Jacksonville FL	$695	$1,648
Dallas-Fort Worth TX	$755	$1,944
Indianapolis IN	$750	$2,261
Seattle WA	$600	$1,519
Detroit MI	$845	$1,199
Boston MA	$1,395	$2,332
Memphis TN	$995	$2,060
Oklahoma City OK	$945	$1,914
Las Vegas NV	$595	$1,526
Louisville KY	$750	$1,880
Denver CO	$1,295	$1,791

*Average direct cremation price 2019 obtained from Parting Funeral Home Comparison website

Are cremation prices likely to rise in 2019?

Cremation planning The market for cremation services will continue to become more competitive. Cremation has continued to disrupt the funeral industry in 2020 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 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. I would anticipate that once these large funeral entities position themselves to dominate a market, we are likely to see cremation prices rise again.

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 service An 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 2020, 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 2020: How cremation is disrupting the Funeral Industry.’