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

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 $995

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, direct cremation in Alpharetta for just $995!

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 in Alpharetta is $1,841 (Funeralocity 2021), although a direct cremation package can be conducted for just $995 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 $995.

How do I choose a cremation services provider?

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

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

Comparing cremation costs in 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 $1,841, although a direct cremation can be arranged for less than this with some cremation providers. DFS Memorials offer a direct cremation service for $995.

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 direct 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.

How to arrange direct Cremation Services in Avondale, AZ – $725

Posted on July 27, 2020 by N. G Pelling

The shift to cremation is sweeping across the nation as families demand more affordable death care alternatives.

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 Avondale?

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 Avondale is $5,825*, although the lowest price is $4,945.

So how do cremation costs compare in Avondale?

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.

The average price for a cremation funeral service in Avondale is $2,915*.

Direct cremation services in Avondale, 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 Avondale for $725, although the average price for a direct cremation is $1,375. 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.

Maricopa County DFCS, 234 N. Central Ave. 3rd Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85004 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.

What is the service area around Avondale?

The $725 direct cremation package is available throughout all of the Greater Avondale and surrounding areas.

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 2020

$725 Simple cremation in Gilbert, AZ

Posted on July 24, 2020 by N. G Pelling

If you have an immediate, or imminent, need for a simple low-cost cremation then we can help you arrange everything for one low price of $725.

Times are changing and our attitudes to death and funerals are fundamentally changing too. More families are deciding that cremation offers a more simple and affordable option. Cremation can offer a much more affordable and “no fuss” alternative to a traditional funeral service.

A direct cremation package can help you arrange a low-cost funeral. The direct cremation takes care of the immediate disposition of the deceased, and once the cremated remains are available, a memorial or ash-scattering service can be conducted.

When you can take care of everything for $725 and are dealing with a family-owned funeral business, why should you pay more than this?

What does the $725 Simple Cremation Package include?

Our simple cremation service includes:

Collection of the deceased from the place of death
Transfer to the funeral facility*
Shelter of the deceased
Filing of the death certificate and cremation permit
A cardboard cremation container for the cremation process
The cremation process
Return of the cremated remains in a temporary cremation urn

*an additional mileage fee can apply if outside our basic service area

Are there any extra costs?

The only additional fees are county fees, which are subject to change and payable to the county in order to facilitate the cremation proceeding. Death certificate fees in Arizona are $20 for the 1^st certificate and $20 for each additional copy at present.

Can we still have a funeral service if we arrange a direct cremation?

Yes, of course. You can arrange a memorial service once you have the cremated remains returned. A memorial service is the type of funeral service where the deceased’s body is not present. You can hold a memorial service with, or without, the cremation urn present. A memorial funeral service can also take the shape of an ash scattering ceremony, or a candlelit vigil or tribute. We have some useful resources to help you plan and make your own memorial tributes in our Memorialization section.

Comparing cremation costs in Gilbert, AZ

As cremation is becoming a popular choice for residents of Gilbert, there are several cremation service providers serving Maricopa County. The cost of a cremation can vary significantly, for the exact same service, so it is wise to ensure you do compare cremation prices between a few providers to ensure you are benefitting from a value for money cremation service package. The average cost of a cremation memorial service in Gilbert is $3,595, and the average cost of a direct cremation is $995* It is important to check that a direct cremation package includes everything.

A cremation significantly reduces funeral costs. The average cost of a funeral in Gilbert is $6,470.

How can you save money when arranging a cremation service?

A direct cremation is the most economical means of disposition there is. In Gilbert, a direct cremation can be conducted for $725 complete, making this very affordable funeral option. If you need to keep funeral costs down, then a simple cremation arranged through a cremation provider is your lowest cost cremation option in Gilbert, AZ. You can then arrange your own memorial services once you have the cremated remains returned. This significantly cuts down on funeral expenses.

What do I need to know about arranging a cremation? What are the legal requirements?

A cremation authorization form must be signed by the legal next of kin for a cremation to proceed. If there are multiple siblings, all must sign and agree for a cremation to be carried out. There is a 24-hour mandatory wait period after death before the cremation can go ahead.

What help is there with cremation costs?

If qualifying for Social Security, you may be entitled to the lump-sum death benefit payment of $255. The funeral director will generally assist you with submitting the claim to Social Security. Of course, many people use life insurance policies to offset funeral costs, but with a direct cremation, the funeral provider will require payment upfront.

There is very limited public assistance support for funeral costs and this can vary by county. Check out Maricopa County Assistance Programs.

Maricopa County Human Services Department

234 N. Central Ave. 3rd Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85004 Phone: (602) 506-5911

How do I obtain a copy of a death certificate?

You can obtain copies of a death certificate from the Vital Records office at Maricopa County Health Department, 234 N. Central Ave. 3rd Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85004 Phone: (602) 506-5911

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

As funeral directors are familiar with the process, and the body is released with death certificate & cremation permit, it is generally easy to maintain a low cost to offer a direct cremation service for an individual that has been in the care of the Medical Examiner. The County Coroner’s office is at 701 W Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007 Phone: (602) 505-3322

Please contact your local DFS Memorials cremation services provider on (602) 638-1151 with any further questions you have, or to make immediate arrangements for a low-cost cremation service.

*Cost data obtained from funeral price comparison website 2020

Cremation Services in Bolingbrook, IL

Posted on July 23, 2020 by N. G Pelling

Cremation is changing the way we think about funerals. More than half of American funerals are now conducted as cremations.

If you are researching cremation costs to consider preplanning your wishes or have an immediate need for cremation services, this article can provide you with some information on what costs to expect for cremation services.

Our changing attitudes towards death care

Deciding whether to bury or cremate is a personal choice. For some families, the decision is dictated by the budget they have for a funeral and a cremation service will cost less than a traditional burial funeral. On average a cremation service is going to save you at least 40% on the cost of a burial, sometimes you can save as much as 60% on the cost of a burial service. More families are choosing cremation as it does offer 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.

How much does a cremation cost in Bolingbrook?

The average cost for a cremation is around $3,000, but a cremation can be arranged for as little as $1,165.

It is important to state that cremation prices in Bolingbrook 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.

How much is a direct cremation in Bolingbrook, IL?

A simple cremation can be conducted in Bolingbrook for $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?

How to compare cremation costs in Bolingbrook, IL

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Illinois

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

What can we do with the cremated remains?

Preplanning an affordable cremation service

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

302 N. Chicago St. Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 774-7489

The deceased is at the Medical Examiner’s Office. What do I do?

Address of county coroner’s office: Will County Medical Examiner 158 N Scott St, Joliet, IL 60432

We hope this short guide has helped answer some of your immediate questions and provided some help in understanding how you can arrange an affordable funeral or cremation service in Bolingbrook, IL. If you need to research more information on funeral-planning, please visit the Library section on US Funerals Online.

Arranging an affordable cremation service in Mesa, AZ – Just $725

Posted on July 23, 2020 by N. G Pelling

Cremation offers a much more affordable funeral alternative. Indeed, you can arrange an affordable basic cremation service for just $725 in Mesa!

The information in this article should help you understand how arranging a cremation can save you money on funeral costs, and what to expect for average cremation costs.

What you also need to consider is what kind of cremation service you want. Whereas you can arrange a full funeral cremation service with a funeral home, the much more inexpensive option is to arrange a direct cremation and conduct your own memorial service.

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Mesa is $5,821*, 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. The need for a casket, cemetery plot and burial vault is eliminated…thus saving greatly on overall costs!

What different cremation alternatives do I have?

There are 3 main types of cremation service options. Firstly, a Cremation Funeral – this is largely the same as a full-service funeral except the deceased is cremated after the funeral instead of a burial. Secondly, you can opt for a Cremation Memorial – in this option the deceased is first cremated, and then a memorial service conducted by the funeral services provider, with the cremation ashes present. Thirdly, there is a Direct Cremation – in this case, there are no services or ceremonies provided by the funeral home. The deceased is cremated and the cremation ashes returned directly to the family. This is the most affordable cremation option available in Mesa.

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 Mesa?

The cost of a cremation can vary considerably. This will depend upon the type of cremation service you opt for and the cremation services provider you select. The average cost of a cremation memorial service is $2,880, depending upon the length of service held and what kind of casket you purchase or rent. The average cost of a direct cremation is $1,232*, although a direct cremation package can be conducted for just $725 with DFS Memorials.

Direct cremation services in Mesa, AZ

If you are working on a budget for your funeral expenses, you may wish to consider a direct cremation. A direct cremation is the cheapest cremation option. The funeral services provider does everything to take care of the immediate disposition of the deceased but no viewing or services are held. The deceased is cremated in a simple cremation container and then the cremated remains are made available for the family or collect (or if requested delivered/mailed). A direct cremation can be arranged online or by phone without any need for you to visit a funeral home. For your best price on a direct cremation contact your DFS Memorials provider in Mesa on (602) 638-1151 who offers a complete direct cremation package for just $725.

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 Mesa, AZ

According to funeral price research surveys in Mesa, the average cost of a direct cremation is $1,232, although a direct cremation can be arranged for less than this with some cremation providers. DFS Memorials offer an affordable direct cremation service for $725 in Mesa.

When comparing costs and services check what IS included, especially with a budget direct cremation package. Is a copy of the death certificate included? Is the cremation permit an additional cash advance item or included? What about if an out-of-hours collection is required? Is there an additional daily refrigeration charge if the cremation does not proceed after 48-hours? Death certificates cost $20.00 for the first certificate and $20 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 Mesa?

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.

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 the Maricopa County Human Services Department at 234 N. Central Ave. 3rd Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85004 Phone: (602) 506-5911 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. An affordable direct cremation from DFS Memorials can be arranged for $725 in Mesa.

What is “no-cost cremation”?

Some funeral homes now offer this option in Mesa. 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 4419 E Main St, Mesa, AZ 85205

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

Maricopa County Coroner & Forensic Science Center, 701 W Jefferson Street, Pheonix, AZ 85007 Phone: (602) 505-3322

We hope this short guide to arranging an affordable cremation service in Mesa 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 December 2019.

Guide to affordable Cremation Services in Surprise, AZ

Posted on July 23, 2020 by N. G Pelling

Do you need to save money on funeral costs? Looking for a simple and inexpensive alternative to a traditional funeral service?

Consider arranging a simple cremation service for $725. 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

Deciding whether to bury or cremate is a personal choice. For some families, the decision is dictated by the budget they have for a funeral and a cremation service will cost less than a traditional burial funeral. On average a cremation service is going to save you at least 40% on the cost of a burial, sometimes you can save as much as 60% on the cost of a burial service. More families are choosing cremation as it does offer 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 Surprise?

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 Surprise is $6,355*.

How much does a cremation cost in Surprise?

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 Surprise 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 $3,210*, however, it is possible to find much lower-priced cremation services in Surprise.

How much is a direct cremation in Surprise, AZ?

A basic cremation can be conducted in Surprise for as little as $725 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 (602) 638-1151 to arrange a low-cost cremation for $725

What type of cremation services are available?

How to compare cremation costs in Surprise, AZ

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

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Surprise

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 Arizona before the cremation can proceed.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

Preplanning an affordable cremation service

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

234 N. Central Ave. 3rd Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85004 Phone: (602) 506-5911

The deceased is at the Medical Examiner’s Office. What do I do?

Address of Maricopa county coroner’s office: 701 W Jefferson Street, Pheonix, AZ 85007 Phone: (602) 505-3322

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 Surprise, AZ. 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