Over 60% of Americans now choose cremation instead of burial for their final disposition (Statista). The cremation trend has been sweeping across our nation as it offers a more affordable and flexible end-of-life alternative to traditional burial. There are numerous reasons cited for why we are all opting for cremation, but the 2 key reasons are cost and flexibility.
A cremation is much cheaper than a traditional burial – usually at least 40% – 60% less. Also, cremation offers more options for memorialization. For those families who have migrated or are transplants – cremated remains can be transferred back to a home state, or divided amongst family to be kept close. You can inter cremated remains, scatter them, or choose from a whole array of cremation artifacts! Read on to find out more about how to save on cremation costs in Corpus Christi.
What is the average cost of a cremation in Corpus Christi?
This is THE question that many families turn to the Internet to find out today. Maybe they are curious about how much a cremation costs, or in some cases they have been told by a funeral home in Corpus Christi just how much a funeral is going to cost!
The cost of a cremation varies considerably, depending on which funeral home you select and what kind of cremation service you opt for. The average cost of a full-service cremation is $4,977 (Funeralocity), although you can arrange a simple, direct cremation for much less than this.
Cremation Packages
Many funeral service providers in Corpus Christi will offer cremation packages. This can be a great way to save on the a la carte General Price List of a funeral home and know exactly what you are getting for a set price.
There are generally three main types of cremation services. Firstly, you can select a basic cremation (otherwise referred to as an immediate cremation or a direct cremation), which is without a ceremony or service.
A cremation memorial service is when the cremation is performed first, and then a service is held with the cremation ashes present (or not present). Finally, there is a full-service cremation, which is much the same as a traditional funeral only the deceased is cremated after the service instead of buried.
Direct cremation in Corpus Christi
Direct cremation is fast becoming the most popular cremation choice today. Why? Because it offers the cheapest and most flexible disposition option for families concerned about funeral costs and wanting a ‘simple’ solution. Many families in Corpus Christi are choosing a direct cremation and then arranging their own memorial services. This saves a lot of money and puts the family firmly in control of the funeral service.
An immediate need direct cremation can be arranged in Corpus Christi for around $1,575 complete
What is included in a direct cremation?
It is wise to check exactly what is included in an advertised direct cremation price. Not all providers include the cremation container, which can cost an extra $75-150. Also, if the funeral home does not have a crematory, they may charge the crematory fee as a ‘cash advance’ fee.
A direct cremation generally includes:
- Collecting the deceased & transporting he/she to the funeral home/crematory
- Storage for the mandatory 48-hour waiting period for cremation
- Completion of all the necessary paperwork & permits*
- The cremation fee
- The cremation container (an alternative cardboard container is generally used)
- Returning the cremated remains to the family in a temporary container
*Death certificates & Medical Examiners fees are the only additional costs.
What extra costs may I have to pay for a cremation?
The fees that are paid to the county are generally extra costs that you have to pay upfront when you purchase a direct cremation package. In Corpus Christi, the Medical Examiner’s fee is $20, and death certificates cost $21 each. (You need at least 1 death certificate possibly more). It IS important to check what is included with a direct cremation package as some funeral service providers do not include items such as the cremation container or the crematory fee.
How do I choose a cremation provider in Corpus Christi?
It is always wise to check around with more than one provider to compare costs and services. At DFS Memorials, we have already compared a selection of cremation service providers in Corpus Christi to find the best direct cremation prices. We believe this will save you stress at an emotional time.
How do cremation providers compare in Corpus Christi
It is always advisable to compare general price lists from several funeral service providers, as funeral costs can vary considerably for the exact same service from different service providers. A funeral home is obligated by the FTC’s ‘funeral rule’ to disclose prices to you when you make an inquiry – whether face-to-face or by phone/email.
How can you save money by arranging a cremation?
Arranging a cremation, especially a direct cremation, can actually save thousands of dollars in funeral costs. There is no need for a casket, embalming, burial vault, or cemetery plot. With a direct cremation, you can arrange your own memorial services at a location of your choice and a time best for the family.
Preplanning a cremation in Corpus Christi
You can preplan a cremation with a cremation services provider. You can even lock in the low cost of a direct cremation today in case gas prices do rise. You can prepay a cremation plan using an insurance policy, or funds are deposited into a trust. Alternatively, you can preplan by documenting your wishes and lay aside the required funds in a Payable on Death POD account.
Is there any help with cremation costs in Corpus Christi?
We get asked this question too frequently! Sadly, there is patchy help available at best. Financial help for funeral costs differs by county, so you would need to consult your local county human services to explore if there is any assistance.
This article explains what options there are to help you pay for a funeral. Remember that opting for a simple cremation and conducting your own memorial service are key ways to keep funeral costs down.
I have been researching and writing about the death care industry for the last fifteen years. End of life services and experiences are something most of us choose not to reflect upon until we are suddenly faced with dealing with it. I have been contributing comprehensive and independent resources for families that explain how the funeral industry operates, and the laws that govern funeral practices. Sara writes for US Funerals Online and DFS Memorials LLC, as well as contributing to other forums and publications for the death care industry. I have a BA in Cultural Studies. This helps my analysis of cultural death care rituals, alongside a career background in Business Management. The death care industry is undergoing an epoch of change and this fascinates me.
