Green Burial: An affordable and environmentally-friendly alternative death care option

Posted on August 8, 2021 by Sara Marsden

Natural Burial Explained

What is a green burial or natural burial?

A natural burial, or green burial, focuses on an environmentally sustainable and organic way to conduct the disposition of a deceased body. The deceased is not embalmed, and the body is interred into the ground, using only a biodegradable coffin or shroud. The deceased is buried directly into the earth, without a concrete burial vault, or any metal parts on the coffin.

The aim is to allow the body to naturally decompose and return to the soil, as in the phrase so commonly used around death of “ashes to ashes, dust to dust”.

Why Opt for a natural burial?

Green funerals have been around for some time. Indeed, what we know as a traditional American Funeral, was closer to being a natural burial in the mid-19^th century, when undertakers built wooden coffins and interment was direct into the earth.

Some faiths practice only natural burial, such as Muslims and Jews, where beliefs mandate a natural, organic approach to death care.

Natural burial is experiencing something of a revival today. It is gaining more attention in states where there is also a greater awareness, and undertaking, to be more sustainable and protect our planet and its resources. There is also a growing interest in home funerals or family-led funerals. Read more about conducting a DIY Funeral.

The main reasons people consider a green burial are:

Simplicity
Cost
Conserving natural resources & natural areas
Eliminating the exposure to hazardous chemicals

Simplicity

Those who opt for a natural burial are often seeking a more simple and holistic approach to death care. They want funeral arrangements that are simple, have a minimal intervention on the body, and provide a lasting green impact on the planet. There are options for the deceased to be buried with a seedling, allowing a tree to grow from the remains of someone who passed. This does seem a wonderful legacy to re-oxygenate our planet and have a long-term memorial arboretum.

Cost

According to the NFDA 2020 Cremation & Burial report, a typical traditional funeral, including casket, embalming, and burial vault costs $8,755, and this is without a cemetery plot fee. Items such as embalming, a casket, a burial vault, and a plot in perpetuity in a designated cemetery, are all costly.

A natural burial works out much less expensive as none of these items are required.

Conserving natural resources & natural areas

Natural Conservation Burial Site Every year the U.S. buries 17,000 tons of steel and copper in vaults, 90,000 tons of steel in caskets, 30 million board feet of hardwood, and 1.6 million tons of concrete. A natural burial is not demanding on our resources as fewer resources are consumed. Cremation, which has become more popular over the last decade, requires the resource of gas, so although sometimes considered more environmentally friendly, it is still consuming a natural resource.

Green burial also helps to conserve our natural areas, and even create new natural forests and meadows. Visit our post on Why Should You Consider a Green Funeral.

Eliminating the exposure to hazardous chemicals

Formaldehyde which is used in embalming fluid is a hazardous chemical. It is a known respiratory irritant and carcinogen. Aside from embalming fluid absorbing into our planet as a body decomposes, it is not safe to expose funeral home workers and morticians to this hazardous substance on a routine basis.

Can a natural burial be affordable?

Yes, green burial or natural burial, is significantly more affordable than a traditional funeral. The need for the embalming process, an expensive casket, and a burial vault are all eliminated.

The costs for a simple cardboard container to hold the deceased, a simple pine coffin, or a muslin shroud are way less than a steel or copper casket.

There are some natural burial sites that offer interment at very affordable prices. It is fair to say that a simple, natural burial can cost between $500 – $1,500.

How do I choose a green burial site?

There are certain things you need to consider if you are seeking a green burial site. Do you want a bespoke natural cemetery? Or a specially-designated ‘green’ section within a conventional cemetery. This is what is known as a ‘hybrid’ green burial cemetery. There are more conventional cemeteries that are adding green burial sections to cater to the demand for a natural burial. Some of these cemeteries may still have plot fees that are considered more expensive than a conservation natural burial ground, as they still have costs associated with cemetery ground maintenance.

If you are interested in a ‘wild’ conservation area burial site, then you need to be more selective in which site you choose.

Click here for a list of all green burial cemeteries in the U.S.

What if there is no green burial cemetery locally?

You can consider making a burial in a cemetery greener by choosing not to have embalming performed, and using a biodegradable casket. If the cemetery will allow it, you can choose not to use a concrete burial vault.

If the family owns rural land, you can consider a home burial. Most states allow natural burial on private property. Each county has its own zoning requirements, so you would need to apply for the correct permit. Just bear in mind that unless you have established a protected family cemetery on the land, if the land-use should change, the remains could become inaccessible or disturbed.

Do I need a funeral director? And, how do I choose a funeral company for a green burial?

In most states, you do not legally need to employ a funeral director. It is just a convention that we do. There are 8 states that have legislation that stipulates only a funeral director can transport the deceased and obtain the necessary permits and death certificates. If you have decided on a natural burial for a family member, in the 42 states where you do not legally have to use the services of a funeral director, you have the option to conduct a family-led funeral and transfer the deceased to the natural burial ground for interment.

Most funeral homes can assist you with a green burial option if this is what you choose. There are also several funeral companies that are specialized in offering natural burial options.

How do I choose a receptacle for a natural burial?

Green Burial Container You need to choose a biodegradable container. This can range from a plain wooden coffin, reinforced cardboard container, wicker basket to a simple muslin shroud. It is all about what is right for your loved one, and your family. A wooden coffin is likely to cost more but is easier to safely transport. Reinforced cardboard containers can be purchased at a low cost, and can be hand-decorated with messages by family and friends before being interred at a burial site.

Shrouds offer very limited support for transferring the deceased to a cemetery but have the most minimal resistance as a biodegradable barrier.

What kind of memorial marker can be erected in a green burial cemetery?

This depends on the burial site. If it is a hybrid green cemetery, you may be able to erect a conventional grave marker. In conservation natural burial sites, the objective is to minimize the impact on the natural terrain. Therefore, markers are typically only a simple natural rock or native plant. Some green burial sites will offer some plaques that sit very flush with the ground. Most natural burial sites offer grave locations recorded by GPS so that you have a permanent ‘marker’ of the gravesite location.

What does a natural burial cost?

The cost of a natural burial varies by region and what type of burial site you opt for. In general terms, a green burial for a body will range from $1,000 to $4,000. Interment of cremated remains in a natural burial site is likely to cost between $200 and $1,000.

Although a natural burial can be achieved at a fraction of the cost of a traditional burial, some funeral home charges for a green burial can seem expensive. A funeral home will use a simple pine casket, that they will likely mark up. You can purchase, or make, your own container, as the funeral home must accept any ‘appropriate’ container you provide. This can make a significant saving on the cost of the burial.

A natural burial is a very simplistic and humanist approach to death care. Many families who opt for a natural burial feel strongly about being in control of the process, and the ritual, of death care.

A green burial can often be arranged as an inexpensive option for direct burial.

State Assistance for Funerals: What help is available from state budgets for funeral costs for those who cannot afford a funeral?

Posted on July 2, 2021 by Sara Marsden

The reality for many families in the United States today is that a funeral can mean a financial crisis. With 76% of Americans living paycheck to paycheck, 25% living below the poverty line, and 35% in debt recovery, these really are hard times for many average hard-working Americans! The story is a familiar one, working two jobs, juggling mortgage, utility, and car payments, seeking out deals wherever money can be saved, and hoping that nothing comes along unexpectedly to disrupt this fine balance!

In this guide, we have outlined what help is available, who qualifies for financial assistance, how to find out about indigent burial, how whole-body donation can be an option, how you may be able to claim for a COVID death, and other fund-raising options.

Visit How Much does Cremation Cost in 2021? for a breakdown of direct cremation costs.

Who is responsible for paying the funeral bill?

If the deceased died without a funeral plan, money in his/her estate, or a life insurance policy, then the immediate next of kin (and generally the person making the funeral arrangements) becomes responsible for paying the funeral home bill. In many cases, several family members may agree to share the costs.

If the funeral home has collected the deceased and arranged a funeral planning conference with the family, a ‘funeral contract’ will be drafted that outlines exactly what the costs are. Once signed this is a legally binding contract for services, and if you fail to honor this contract and pay for services as agreed, the funeral home can take you to court.

What responsibility does the state have to help families with funeral costs?

The state has responsibility for conducting the dispositions of those individuals who die within the care of the state. Primarily this means those who have been residents in state-owned institutions, such as those individuals who have been incarcerated in prisons, sectioned into mental institutions, in care in residential nursing homes, homeless individuals, and sometimes those who are a victim of a crime. These are referred to as “indigents”. The state only has a responsibility to perform the most basic of disposition services. Traditionally this was a very basic burial in a ‘pauper’ section of a local municipal cemetery. What could also be referred to as a “pauper burial”. Today, more counties are opting to use direct cremation as a cheaper and simpler alternative to burial. A direct cremation can be performed in most states (at a cost to the county) for around $300 – $500.

Unfortunately, more counties are finding their own budgets stretched as more families struggle financially. Where a county would maybe have to deal with 10 – 20 cases a year, numbers in 2018 began to inflate significantly. Several local news outlets have reported indigent cases rising by as much as 50%, as this recent story from Salt Lake County in Utah exposes.

What is an indigent burial?

Where a state has an ‘indigent burial assistance’ program, there may be some ascribed funding to support those on welfare with a basic disposition. The level of support varies tremendously by state and county, and in many areas has been axed as municipal budgets have been tightened. 25% of Americans may be below the poverty line, but in most cases, only 50% of those under the poverty line are considered indigent.¹

What financial help is there for low-income families with the cost of a funeral?

The Federal Poverty Level (FPL) is used to assess how an individual/family may qualify for many low-income assistance programs, and the same applies to fund funeral costs. Many families often misinterpret the phrase ‘indigent death’, believing it to mean an entitlement for a low-income stipend and assuming that the city will automatically take over the costs. If you are a low-income family or individual and wish to find out IF there is any financial support available to you to assist with funeral costs, you should consult your local county Human Services Department to ascertain what (if any) assistance there may be. Check out these state funeral planning guides for state-relevant information (if available).

indigent-cemetery You must be prepared for the fact that you WILL have to conform to rigid assessments for qualification, and if the state provides funding they will only offer basic services over which you will have very little control! The state is likely to offer a direct cremation or a basic funeral. Do bear in mind that in many areas now you can arrange a simple, basic and dignified cremation for between $500 – $995. This enables you to remain in control of the disposition process and provides the opportunity to conduct a family-led funeral by having the deceased immediately cremated and then conducting your own memorial or ash scattering services.

The DFS Memorials network of low-cost cremation providers can help you find your nearest and most affordable cremation provider.

If the deceased qualified – you may also be able to claim the $255 lump-sum death benefit payment that Social Security pays out. (The funeral director will assist you with submitting this claim) Another possibility that has more recently become available as an alternative for those families who cannot afford a funeral is whole body donation. This is where is the deceased’s body is donated to an institution for research, and the costs of cremation are covered by the institution or body donation organization. In some areas, funeral homes have affiliated with body donation organizations and can directly offer this to families. Some funeral homes refuse to on the grounds that it is not part of the level of funeral ‘service’ they wish to offer. You can, however, deal directly with a body donation organization to make a donation. You can read more about ‘Body Donation’ on US Funerals Online.

How does a family claim financial assistance from the county for a funeral?

Budgets are generally managed at a county or city level, and the Human Services (or sometimes Social Services) department handles these budgets and claims for assistance. The application process can be onerous and stringent and any assets, life insurance, and savings will be taken into account. In some areas, a county judge has the ultimate authority to decide whether to accept or decline applications for a burial assistance program. If funding is awarded for a low-income case, this will usually seal the cost that can be spent on a funeral. For example, in Massachusetts, a program offers burial support of costs up to $1,100 for a funeral that cannot exceed a total cost of $1,500, and in New York, a low-income family (if qualifying) can claim up to $900 towards the cost of a funeral, but it must not exceed a total cost of $1,700.

If you want to find out if funding is available in your county, check with your Human Services or Social Services department.

What if I don’t qualify for financial support and I still cannot afford a funeral?

Your best option is to arrange the least expensive disposition available to you. This is a direct cremation. You can generally arrange this for between $500 and $1,000 in most metro areas, and for under $1,500 in most other areas. This can still be a simple and yet dignified send-off. Once the direct cremation is conducted and you have the cremation ashes back, you can arrange a family gathering and a private memorial ceremony. Contact your nearest DFS Memorials provider to find a low-cost cremation.

Fund-raising to meet funeral expenses

More families are forced down this route today. If you opt for a simple, basic cremation this can be achieved for between $500 – $1000, and this is a more realistic amount to raise with some fund-raising activity. Be it car washes, BBQs, yard sales, or a community event – this can prove a means to help meet the full cost of a cremation.

‘No Cost’ cremation

If you absolutely have no funds to cover funeral expenses, and cannot raise funds to pay for a basic cremation or burial, then you may wish to consider a whole-body donation. This is not always the easy solution, as not every donation is accepted. However, it may be a solution if you cannot afford a funeral and you are willing to consider an anatomical donation. You can donate via a local medical school or through a national donation company. Many funeral homes now even liaise on your behalf.

FEMA Funeral Assistance Program

From April 2021, a new fund was made available via FEMA to help families who incurred funeral expenses as a result of losing a loved one to COVID. Up to $9,000 can be claimed for funeral costs, for deaths occurring after January 2020. Read our Guide to FEMA Funeral Assistance for full details on how to claim,

There are some other options you can consider to help you raise funds for a funeral. Reading ‘What are your options on how to pay for a funeral or cremation?’ and ‘Crowdfunding a Funeral’ may give you some further ideas.

Sources:

1 Abandoned Bodies on the Rise in Tom Green County

A Guide to Cremation Costs in Texas 2021

Posted on May 12, 2021 by Sara Marsden

DFS Memorials Texas – Click Here to Find a local Provider & Price

What is the average cost of a funeral in Texas today?

More than ever Texans are turning to the internet to compare prices and get fair deals. So why not ensure we apply the same mentality to checking cremation costs? Traditional funerals are expensive. The average cost of a funeral service in Texas is $5,192*, and this does not include any cemetery fees. Adding cemetery expenses is likely to bring the full cost up to $7,000 – $9,000 for a ‘standard’ funeral service. More extravagant funerals can cost double this!

In reality, there are not many families who can afford to pay out thousands for a funeral service these days. A key reason why the cremation rate has increased so significantly in recent years. Choosing cremation reduces funeral expenses dramatically. In fact, opting for a simple direct cremation can reduce your funeral expense to less than $1,000 in most cities in Texas.

What is the average cost of cremation in Texas?

Quoting the average cost of a cremation can depend on the type of cremation service. It is fair to say that the average price for a cremation service is around $2,000 – $3,000 for a simple service. You can pay more for an elaborate cremation funeral with a gathering. Or you can pay less for just a basic cremation service.

As you can eliminate certain items from the funeral expenses, such as embalming, a casket, a grave liner, and a cemetery plot – this does save you money on the full cost of a funeral with burial.

What is the least expensive cremation service?

Direct cremation is the least expensive cremation option. This is when just cremation is carried out, with no additional services or ceremony. It is a simple dignified cremation of the deceased with minimal ‘fuss’, and at a minimal cost.

The cremated remains are returned to the next of kin after everything has been taken care of. A family can choose to hold a memorial service if they wish when they are ready.

Direct cremation cost comparison in the 16 top cities in Texas

To help you understand how cremation costs can (and do) vary considerably, we have compiled some data on cremation costs in the major cities across Texas. The table below provides a breakdown of the average direct cremation price vs. a low-cost direct cremation. As you can see, in most areas, a direct cremation service can be arranged for less than $1,000.

City	Average direct cremation cost*	Low cost direct cremation	Immediate help (DFS Memorials)
Abilene	$2,025	$1,125
Amarillo	$1,566	$975
Austin	$2,003	$725	(512) 253-1110
Brownsville	$1,426	$795
College Station	$2,025	$975	(979) 314-3889
Corpus Christi	$2,218	$1,175	(361) 208-0765
Dallas	$1,833	$755	(214) 380-4964
East Texas	$2,338	$795
El Paso	$1,259	$925	(915) 201-2446
Fort Worth	$1,819	$795	(817) 369-5240
Houston	$2,296	$640	(713) 309-6059
Laredo	$1,855	$995
Midland-Odessa	$2,285	$1,195
McAllen	$2,101	$995
San Antonio	$2,039	$725	(210) 460-1911
Waco	$1,483	$995	(254) 221-6609

Are there extra fees added to a low-cost cremation service package?

The service charge for a direct cremation is listed on the funeral provider’s General Price List. This should include the basic services of the funeral director, collection and transfer of the deceased, completing the legal paperwork, and conducting the cremation. It usually includes a simple cardboard cremation container and a temporary urn.

The funeral director will pay third-party fees to the local county to obtain the death certificate and pay for any permit charges. These are third-party fees that are added to the direct cremation service fee. Cremation permit fees vary by county but are generally between $10 – $40 (if a charge is made).

Death certificates cost $20.00 for the initial certificate and $3.00 for each additional copy ordered at the same time.

Other possible additional charges would be:

Residential collection
Removal of a pace-maker
Overweight surcharge (above 250 pounds)
Family arrangement consultation
Mailing of cremated remains

What Texas funeral legislation governs cremation arrangements?

Texas has a mandatory 48-hour wait period after death before a cremation can proceed. As cremation is such a final disposition and destroys all DNA, there are strict codes and rules that govern the cremation of human remains. A ‘Cremation Authorization Form’ must be signed by the legal next of kin before a cremation permit can be issued by the county coroner.

Can you get a free cremation in Texas?

Unfortunately, very little in life or death is ‘free’! What is sometimes referred to as a “free” cremation or “no-cost” cremation is actually a whole-body donation. Once the donation is performed, the remains are cremated free of charge. However, in some cases, there are costs associated with transporting the deceased and obtaining death certificates. Read more in this funeral planning guide.

Is there any financial assistance towards funeral expenses for families with no money?

Local Texas counties manage their own budgets to assist needy families and take care of the needs of indigents. You should contact the social or human services department of your local county to inquire if any support is available.

There are other organizations, charities, and church groups that may offer some contribution to help families who are struggling with funeral expenses. Arranging a basic direct cremation is the most economical option.

What happens if I cannot pay for a funeral?

The responsibility to pay the funeral bill falls to the immediate next of kin if the deceased had no pre-paid funeral plan or life insurance. This can be very stressful if you lose a family member and become responsible for the funeral arrangements without any resources. This resource on What to do if you cannot afford a funeral might help.

Do any cremation service providers offer discounts for hospice patients?

Yes, some cremation service providers do offer a discount to hospice patients seeking a direct cremation. A discount is often based on the relationship with the hospice and the ease of arranging the collection and completing paperwork. This can reduce the time and manpower the funeral director needs to allocate to a case, and therefore he can offset this in the means of a discount to a hospice cremation service.

How much does a cremation cost if the deceased is at the Medical Examiner’s morgue?

If the deceased is at the coroner’s office, you will need to make arrangements with a funeral service provider to collect the body when the coroner signs the release form. You will need to give authorization to the funeral director to collect your loved one and transfer him or her into their care.

As most funeral directors deal with the coroner’s office on a regular basis, and the ME issues the authorization and permit to cremate, it can make the arrangements easier. For this reason, some funeral homes can offer a budget direct cremation when handling remains from the Medical Examiner.

* Average direct cremation prices data gathered from Funeralocity 2021. Low-cost direct cremation prices obtained from DFS Memorials providers in Texas.

How much does direct cremation cost in 2021?

Posted on April 7, 2021 by Sara Marsden

Last year was an unprecedented year in the death care industry. The funeral industry was unexpectedly thrust into a crisis as COVID-19 deaths, and restrictions on social gatherings forced the industry to very quickly adapt as last responders. So, here we review what we can expect for cremation costs in 2021.

Change in the cremation rate 2020

Cremation was already a fast-growing trend that funeral homes were adapting to. The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Cremation & Burial Report projected the cremation rate at 56% for 2020. But in the face of the pandemic, cremation became the only viable disposition option for many families, and funeral homes, faced with making funeral arrangements without holding a funeral service.

Although no data is yet available on the cremation rate for 2020, I expect it to be higher than projected as a result of the unprecedented crisis.

The shift to online cremation price comparison and arrangement

Arrange a cremation online Another trend in funeral consumer behavior is the expectation to find cremation prices online. According to The Foresight Company 2020 Funeral and Cemetery Consumer Study, 75% of people seeking cremation services want transparent online pricing. With 52% claiming they only want to arrange services with a funeral home that provides clear online cremation pricing. This consumer behavior trend could likely continue to impact cremation pricing into 2021 with more funeral homes adopting online price lists. And, as cremation consumers continue to price-shop online, funeral homes will need to adapt their marketing strategies for online cremation consumers.

How 2020 has impacted cremation prices in 2021?

From our observations with the DFS Memorials low-cost cremation network, the impact we have observed is some fluctuation in direct cremation prices going into 2021. With an increased volume of cremation cases and a competitive market for cremation services, I had anticipated the cost of cremation to remain static or even decrease. We have seen prices increase in some cities, and yet decrease in others.

So, why do cremation prices seem to be fluctuating in some areas?

This may be because there is still a comparative shortage of cremation retorts serving some areas. Installing cremation equipment can be costly. Many small funeral homes could not afford to install their own cremation retort as the cremation rate grew. Instead using the trade services of another local crematory. Also, some funeral homes have faced zoning issues when trying to add crematory facilities. Especially, as traditionally funeral homes were located in residential areas. Funeral homes have encountered resistance from residents who have expressed concern about the potential emissions from a crematory nearby.

2021 Breakdown of cremation costs

The price for a cremation service still varies considerably. Even within the same area, you will find different funeral homes and cremation providers charging different prices for a similar service. Therefore, it pays to shop around some. Below we have included a breakdown of the low and high cremation prices in the top most populated metropolitan areas in the United States to give you an idea of how much a cremation cost can vary in a city.

City	State	Low cost cremation price	Most expensive cremation price
New York City	NY	$495	$10,200
Los Angeles	CA	$625	$4,450
Chicago	IL	$1,165	$4,600
Houston	TX	$640	$6,570
Phoenix	AZ	$725	$5,975
Philadelphia	PA	$1,095	$4,950
San Antonio	TX	$595	$3,875
San Diego	CA	$1,000	$2,790
Dallas	TX	$755	$6,300
Austin	TX	$675	$3,095
Jacksonville	FL	$695	$3,695
Fort Worth	TX	$755	$4,045
Columbus	OH	$650	$4,090
Charlotte	NC	$1,225	$4,400
San Francisco	CA	$1,000	$3,790
Indianapolis	IN	$650	$6,100
Seattle	WA	$450	$3,855
Denver	CO	$1,295	$4,012
Washington DC	DC	$1,645	$7,600
El Paso	TX	$925	$2,090
Nashville	TN	$995	$4,400
Las Vegas	NV	$695	$2,350
Atlanta	GA	$895	$4,590
Miami	FL	$696	$4,545

The prices quoted are for a direct cremation service.

What is a direct cremation?

Direct cremation is sometimes referred to as low-cost cremation, basic cremation, or economical cremation. No funeral services are provided as part of the service. The deceased is collected from the place of death, sheltered in refrigeration, the legal paperwork is completed, and then the cremation is conducted. There is no viewing, embalming, or ceremony. Once the cremation is completed, the cremated remains are returned to the family.

It is a simple and direct service which is what keeps the costs down. This simple, affordable, ‘no-fuss’ cremation option is proving a growth trend in the cremation sector. It had been a steadily growing trend, and the pandemic only exacerbated the demand.

In some states,t is even possible to arrange a direct cremation without needing the services of a funeral home.

Will cremation costs remain the same in 2021?

We would all love to be able to predict the future! But, alas, the best forecasts can be affected by unexpected events. Last year proved that to us all. Funeral homes and crematories in some cities witnessed overwhelming demand for cremations last year. In some cases, older crematories (such as in New York City) simply could not cope with the increased demand. Older equipment overheated trying to keep up with the capacity. Newer cremation equipment can handle a higher capacity of cremations per day, but installing new equipment (or upgrading) is an overhead that a funeral home will need to recover in their costs. Many small independent funeral homes, already coping with declining revenue due to the shift to cremation, cannot afford the overhead (or risk) to now add new cremation equipment.

How the rising costs of gas, cremation permits, and emission regulation may continue to affect cremation prices.

The cost of gas is another factor that could impact cremation prices in 2021. According to a report from Met Group in 2020 forecasting natural gas prices from 2020 to 2025, we are likely to see a rise in price from 2021 due to a few factors.

The continuing coronavirus pandemic
The switch to greener, renewable energy sources
The Saudi Arabia-Russia price wars
Weather

Before a cremation can go ahead the local county coroner must issue a cremation permit to the crematory or funeral home. A few years ago, coroners often issued permits at no charge to the funeral director. Today, these permits vary in price depending on the county, and many have increased the charge for issuing a cremation permit significantly. Most cremation permits range from $10.00 to $60.00 but Wisconsin has some of the highest charges in the country. A cremation permit in Milwaukee County costs $357.00.

With the current focus on renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions, it is quite possible that new legislation on monitoring and managing crematory emissions may affect existing crematories. In some EU countries, where the cremation rate has been at 70% (or above) for some years, recent EU emissions legislation meant many crematories had to install new equipment to reduce their emissions. The cost of this resulted in consumer cremation costs increasing.

What alternatives to low-cost cremation may emerge?

Cremation has gained traction in the last decade most significantly because of cost. Yes, there are other influencing factors. But, simply put, for many families direct cremation became the only low-cost alternative to arrange a funeral. Some counties even switched from indigent burial to direct cremation to reduce their budgets for indigent funerals.

However, with more focus on climate change and greener alternatives, new green funeral alternatives are emerging. Water cremation and natural organic reduction (NOR) or human composting are two new greener disposition alternatives. At the moment, both these options are still relatively costly compared to a low-cost direct cremation. Similarly, natural green burial presents a more affordable and natural alternative to cremation, but still costs more than a simple cremation. If there is an increasing interest in natural burial, there is a chance the costs could decrease. A 2019 survey by the NFDA found that almost 52% of Americans expressed an interest in green burial options.

In 2021, a green burial is still going to cost between $3,000 and $5,500, because it is a niche option and there are limited green burial sites and providers. Natural burial potentially could offer a long-term solution to addressing affordability and sustainability in the death care industry. If natural burial could be offered at a comparative cost to cremation.

Pre-planning a direct cremation in 2021

2020 brought death to the forefront of our world. The fear of death shrouded us all for a period of time and still lurks in the corner. The taboo subject of discussing death and dying was given a renewed life.

Are you thinking about the benefits of establishing a cremation plan? Do you want to ensure you have a pre-need plan in place for your own peace of mind and your family?

Pre-arranging a cremation now is a great way to lock in prices. But, do be aware that any plan or policy you take out now will include an incremental cost element to cover future cremation costs.

Another way to pre-plan is to document your final wishes, sign the authorizations, and secure the appropriate funds in a POD bank account. You can adjust the funds annually to reflect the current direct cremation price in your area.

Final thoughts….

This last year has served to remind us all that nothing endures, that we should make the most of what we have right now. But, it also reminded us that we should be prepared for the unexpected.

As Benjamin Franklin famously quoted “in this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes”. It often seems to me that the people have been extorted by both for a century or so. Funerals DO NOT need to be expensive. A simple cremation, or simple burial, can be conducted for less than $1,500. Hopefully, with the online tools we now have, and a greater awareness of researching options, more families will access affordable funeral options in 2021.

The DFS Memorials affordable cremation network aims to help families connect with a local cremation option from an independent funeral home.

What is a direct burial? Your most inexpensive burial option

Posted on March 13, 2021 by Sara Marsden

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

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

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

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

Then a direct burial might be the solution.

What does a direct burial entail?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How much does a direct burial cost?

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

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

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

Arranging a low cost funeral or cremation in Atlanta

Posted on November 15, 2020 by Sara Marsden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Guide to Affordable Cremation in Wheaton, IL – $1,165 direct cremation

Posted on October 31, 2020 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 $1,165.

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

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

What type of cremation services are available?

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

How to compare cremation costs in 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

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 payout a $255 lump sum death benefit (if you qualify) and your funeral director can assist you with this.

The support for indigent burials differs so much by state and county. Some counties do offer some financial assistance to low-income families, whereas in other counties only county indigent dispositions are conducted. To find out what may be available you should contact 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 2020

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

Posted on October 30, 2020 by Cremation Advisor

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

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

Cremation is now becoming the preferred, more affordable option to conduct a dignified, yet simple funeral service at a fraction of the full cost of a traditional funeral.

Why choose cremation services?

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

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

What different cremation alternatives do I have?

You can choose between 3 main options for a cremation:

A cremation funeral – where the funeral service is held with the deceased present and a cremation is conducted after the service.

A cremation memorial – where the cremation is conducted before a memorial service is held. This can be with, or without, the cremated remains present and can often take the form of an ash-scattering ceremony.

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

How much does a cremation cost in Alpharetta?

The cost of a cremation can vary considerably. This will depend upon the type of cremation service you opt for and the cremation services provider you select. The average cost of a cremation memorial service is $3,465, depending upon the length of service held and what kind of casket you purchase or rent. The average cost of a direct cremation is $1,726, although a direct cremation package can be conducted for just $795 with DFS Memorials.

Direct cremation services in Alpharetta, GA

If you are working to a budget for your funeral expenses, you may wish to consider a direct cremation. A direct cremation is the cheapest cremation option. The funeral services provider does everything to take care of the immediate disposition of the deceased but no viewing or services are held. The deceased is cremated in a simple cremation container and then the cremated remains are made available for the family or collect (or if requested delivered/mailed). A direct cremation can be arranged online or by phone without any need for you to visit a funeral home. For your best price on a direct cremation contact your DFS Memorials provider in Alpharetta on (770) 954-6424 who offers a complete direct cremation package for just $895.

How do I choose a cremation services provider?

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

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

Comparing cremation costs in Alpharetta, GA

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

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

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

When comparing costs and services check what IS included, especially with a budget direct cremation package. Is a copy of the death certificate included? Is the cremation permit an additional cash advance item or included? What about if an out-of-hours collection is required? Is there an additional daily refrigeration charge if the cremation does not proceed after 48-hours? Death certificates cost $25.00 for the first certificate and $5 for each additional death certificate required. You should also note that the county coroner may charge a fee if he is required to sign the death certificate.

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

There are a few legal requirements that you need to be aware of if you are considering cremation. Firstly, the legal next-of-kin must all sign the ‘Cremation Authorization Form’ before a cremation can proceed.

In Georgia there is a mandatory 24-hour wait period after death before the cremation can proceed. Before a cremation can go ahead the doctor must sign and fill out the cause of death, and the county health department must issue a permit to cremate. The deceased will be refrigerated during this period, and longer if required, however you should be aware that many cremation packages will only include refrigeration for up to 5 days and will charge you a daily rate thereon.

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

Can I preplan a cremation?

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

What can we do with the cremated remains?

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

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

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

What is “no-cost cremation”?

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

How do I obtain a copy of a death certificate?

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

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

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

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

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

*Prices obtained from online funeral price comparison survey 2020

How much does a direct cremation cost in Cleveland, OH?

Posted on October 28, 2020 by Cremation Advisor

The cremation trend is changing the way we think about arranging a funeral. Although the cremation rate in Ohio has typically been below the national rate, the demand for low cost funeral alternatives is changing the way many families today approach death care. With this in mind, this article will aim to answer some key questions you may have about arranging a direct cremation in Cleveland.

Changing death care rituals and economic reasons for choosing cremation

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

The economy and the Covid-19 pandemic have certainly impacted on how we manage 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.

So how much does a cremation cost in Cleveland?

Firstly it is important to state that cremation prices in Cleveland 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 Cremation Association of North America (CANA) quotes the average cost of cremation at $3,200, however, it is possible to find much lower-priced cremation services in Cleveland.

A direct cremation can be conducted in Cleveland for as little as $625. 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.

What type of cremation services are available?

direct-cremation 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. What services you opt for will dictate cremation costs, and the change in the funeral industry today is a move towards ‘personalization’ and making a funeral service that fits the needs of the family, whatever they are.

Comparing cremation costs in Cleveland, OH

As mentioned the cost of a cremation can vary enormously – for the exact same service – but from different Cleveland 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. A direct cremation in Cleveland can cost as little as $625 complete.

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

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Cleveland

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. 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?

Preplanning an affordable direct cremation in Cleveland

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

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

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

The support for indigent burials differs so much by state and county. To find out what may be available you should contact your County Human Services Department.

If the deceased is at the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner, you will need to employ the services of a funeral director to collect your loved one and take him or her into their care for funeral services. Only a licensed funeral director can collect a body from the Medical Examiners’ office, once the deceased body is ready to be released by the coroner.

The ME for Cuyahoga County is located at 11001 Cedar Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106
Phone (216) 721-5610

DFS Memorials’ low-cost cremation services are available to residents of Cleveland Heights, Detroit-Shoreway, Kamm’s Corners, Lakewood, Little Italy, Ohio City, Shaker Square & Larchmere, Tremont, University Circle, and Cuyahoga County, Geauga County, Lake County, Lorain County, and Medina County.

What does a cremation cost in Denver, CO?

Posted on October 18, 2020 by Sara Marsden

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

Cremation prices: what average cremation costs to expect

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

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

Different types of cremation packages

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

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

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

What is the lowest cost of cremation in Denver?

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

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

Understanding cremation laws in Denver

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

Comparing cremation prices in Denver

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

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