Cremation costs in Little Rock, AR

Posted on May 4, 2020 by Cremation Advisor

Today more funeral consumers are requesting simple cremation services. This trend is said to be driven by several cultural changes – economic, environmental, people migration, declining religiosity, and baby boomers. Whatever the reason, cremation is certainly changing our perspectives on funeral options and end of life alternatives. This short guide aims to provide you with an overview of how to arrange a simple, low-cost cremation in Little Rock and throughout Arkansas.

What is the average cost of a cremation in Little Rock?

One of the most common questions we are asked is ‘what is the average cost of cremation?’ A cremation can range in price from as little as $895 to $3,700. The average cost for a direct cremation in Arkansas is $1,393. The average cost of a cremation will largely depend upon what type of cremation service you select, and what ancillary products or services you choose. A full service cremation with tributes is likely to cost in the region of $3,500.

Cremation Packages

All funeral homes in Arkansas MUST have a General Price List (GPL) which outlines their prices. Legally prices must be disclosed to you if you make an inquiry, either in person or by phone. Unfortunately though not all funeral homes openly disclose cremation prices on their website, and sometimes it can even be difficult to extract a simple, complete price over the phone!

Some funeral homes do offer packaged service options, as opposed to the ‘a la carte’ style of a GPL. A cremation package can offer a solution to making minutia detail over arrangements, and ensure you know exactly what price you are paying for a cremation service.

Generally most funeral homes or cremation providers package a basic, mid-range and full service cremation option. A basic cremation would be a direct or immediate cremation without any ceremony, a mid-range cremation package would offer a memorial tribute service or private family gathering, and a full service cremation is everything that a traditional funeral would offer.

Direct cremation in Little Rock

Direct cremation is the fastest-growing cremation trend. Why? Because it offers families a no-fuss, low cost funeral alternative, which manages the process of the disposition, and leaves the family in control of the personalization or memorial tribute. With a direct cremation the deceased is collected, sheltered at the cremation facility/funeral home, cremated and then the cremated remains returned to the family. A basic cremation container is used and the ashes are returned in a temporary urn. This all means the costs are kept low and a direct cremation can be conducted in Little Rock for just $795 complete.

How do I choose a cremation provider in Little Rock?

Choosing a funeral home to deliver your cremation service is not always as simple as it may seem. Most funeral homes offer cremation services today, but not all funeral homes with have their own crematory. This can affect both the cost of the cremation process, and how comfortable you feel about the service levels/timescales a funeral home can provide. If finances and a limited budget dictate your funeral spending – then you need to seek out a low cost cremation provider. Be sure to check around and compare prices and ensure you compare like for like cremation packages and costs.

How can you save money by arranging a cremation?

You will generally save at least 40-50% by opting for a cremation instead of a traditional burial. There is no need for a casket, embalming, burial vault or cemetery plot and this can save thousands of dollars. A direct cremation can save you thousands on the cost of a full service cremation. It is still a dignified option and you can arrange your own memorial tribute as and when the family chooses. No need to pay a funeral home for elaborate chapels, guest books or memorial boards – you can hold a ceremony at a location of your choosing [sometimes at no cost] and make your own memorial memorabilia.

Low cost cremation in Little Rock

DFS Memorials has a low cost cremation provider based in Little Rock.

DFS Memorials Little Rock – Call (501) 203-9717

Direct Cremation $895 complete

I cannot afford a funeral. What financial assistance is there to help with cremation costs in Little Rock?

This is a frequent question we are asked. There is very limited financial aid to help families with funeral costs. All states/counties have different rules and budgets for the level of public aid they have (if any). If you are struggling financially and worried about how you can pay for a funeral, you may wish to try consulting your county social services or human services. The state is responsible for dealing with indigent burials, but this is generally just for those individuals who become the responsibility of the state.

There is a Social Security lump sum death benefit of $255 to those that qualify and veterans are entitled to certain benefits. There are also union, church and charity organizations that may assist a family with fund-raising to pay for funeral expenses. If finances are a concern – the most important thing is to try and keep your funeral costs down as much as possible.

Low cost direct cremation services available to residents of Apple Gate, Birchwood, Breckenridge, Broadmoor, Brodie Creek, Candlewood, Capitol View, Capitol View/Stifft’s Station, Chenal Ridge, Chenal Valley, Cloverdale, Colony West, Downtown, East End, East Little Rock, Echo Valley, Fair Park, Geyer Springs, Gibraltar Heights, Governor’s Mansion District, Granite Mountain, Gum Springs, Hall High, The Heights, Highland Park, Hillcrest, John Barrow, Leawood, Mabelvale, Mushroom Pass, Oak Forest, Otter Creek, Parkway Place, Pleasant Valley, Quapaw Quarter, River Mountain, River Ridge, Riverdale, Robinwood, Rock Creek, Rosedale, St. Charles, Santa Fe Heights, South End, South Little Rock, Southwest Little Rock, Stagecoach, Sturbridge, The Heights and Hillcrest, the Villages of Wellington, Wakefield, West End and Woodland Edge.

What does cremation cost in Marietta, GA? Simple cremation just $1,095

Posted on February 6, 2020 by Cremation Advisor

We are witnessing a huge shift to cremation across the USA as families demand more affordable death care alternatives. And for those families in Marietta who do not want to overspend on a funeral, or simply cannot afford a costly funeral, cremation is a low-cost alternative. If you are thinking about how you can arrange a funeral at a very affordable cost, then this guide can help you understand how to arrange a dignified cremation for just $1,095, saving you thousands of dollars in funeral expenses.

What is the average cost of a funeral in Marietta?

These days we are discerning consumers, very mindful of costs, and people are now realizing they can price-shop for funeral services. Why should we not ask how much it costs? The Internet offers a great tool to research funeral costs from the comfort of your own home. Unfortunately, not all funeral homes have websites, or put their prices online, so we have put this guide together to outline average funeral and cremation costs in Marietta for you.

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Marietta is $8,112*, although the lowest price is $2,995 with DFS Memorials.

So how do cremation costs compare in Marietta?

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 Marietta is $4,670*.

Still there are much more affordable options for cremation. This involves selecting a simple cremation service or a direct cremation service; and finding an affordable cremation services provider.

Choosing direct cremation services in Marietta, GA

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 simply collected from the place of death, held in the care of the funeral home, all the legal documentation completed, the cremation conducted 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 Marietta for $1,095, although the average price for a direct cremation is $2,218. Neptune Society in Marietta charge $1,972* for a direct cremation service. [As listed on Parting.com]

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 $895.

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

Call now on (770) 299-8266 now to arrange a low-cost cremation

Complete funeral package also available for $2,995

Are there are additional fees to the $1,095 cremation package?

For a cremation to be conducted a ‘disposition permit’ must be issued by the county. Presently 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 $25 for the first certificate and $5 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 Georgia, there is a mandatory 24 hour wait period after death before a cremation can be conducted.

The deceased had no life insurance & I cannot afford a funeral. What can I do?

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 Cobb county DFCS to find out what may be available to you locally.

Cobb County DFCS, 325 S. Fairground Street, Se. Marietta, GA 30060

Phone (770) 528-7683

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 $895 with DFS Memorials is a dignified, yet affordable, disposition alternative if your family is struggling financially.

If the deceased is at Cobb county Medical Examiner’s Office, you will need the services of a licensed funeral director to make arrangements for the release of the deceased. A body can only be released from the county morgue into the care of a funeral director.

What is the service area around Athens?

The $1,095 direct cremation package is available in Marietta, throughout Cobb county and surrounding counties.

If you have further questions about cremation, feel free to call us on (770) 299-8266 and we will be happy to try and help you.

*funeral prices obtained from online funeral price survey website May 2017

Low-cost direct cremation in Tacoma, WA – $600

Posted on January 15, 2020 by Cremation Advisor

If you are in need of a low-cost simple cremation service, then we can help you arrange everything for just $600.

A direct cremation is a simple and affordable disposition. No ceremony is provided by the cremation service provider at the time of passing. Your loved one is collected, sheltered, prepared for cremation, the cremation is performed and the cremated remains returned to the family.

Why choose direct cremation?

More families are choosing cremation instead of burial. It is a simple, flexible and more affordable alternative to a traditional funeral. But what is not always disclosed by the funeral industry is that more families are opting for a direct cremation instead of a cremation funeral.

It is hard for the funeral industry to accept that cremation is now the preferred disposition option for the majority of families.

For families who need to budget for funeral costs, or simply want a ‘no-fuss’ affordable alternative – direct cremation can be the solution.

Can we still have a funeral or memorial service?

Yes. A direct cremation service simply means the funeral service provider merely handles all the disposition arrangements. Once the cremated remains are returned to the family, a memorial service can be arranged. This can be held at a time and place that best suits family and friends. It can also save money on overall funeral costs when the family makes their own arrangements for conducting a memorial service.

Can we view the deceased prior to the cremation?

If the family wishes, it may be possible to view your loved one prior to the cremation being conducted. This is often referred to as a ‘private family goodbye’. The availability of a viewing (and any additional charge for it) can vary depending on circumstances and availability of location and staff.

Are there any additional costs to the $600 cremation service cost?

The $600 direct cremation service covers everything to collect the deceased, transport he/she into the care of the funeral home, prepare all the required paperwork, a cremation container, the cremation process and returning the ashes in a temporary cremation urn.

Additional costs are county costs. i.e. payment for copies of the death certificate and permit to cremate. You may also choose a cremation urn to add to your direct cremation package.

Other potential additional fees can be:

To remove a pacemaker
Cremating a person over 300 pounds
Collection from a residential address

What if the deceased is at the Medical Examiners?

If the death occurred under accidental or suspicious circumstances, or at a residential address, the ME may be called in to determine the cause of death and investigate. The deceased will be taken into the care of the Coroner. Once the cause of death is determined and a death certificate issued, the deceased can be transferred into the care of a licensed funeral service provider for funeral arrangements.

Tacoma is under the jurisdiction of Pierce County and the Medical Examiner’s office is at 3619 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98418. Phone (253) 798-6494

Is there any assistance to help with the cost of a funeral?

There is very little budget in the state and Pierce County to help families with funeral expenses. You can try contacting Pierce County Social Services to determine if you would qualify for any assistance.

If the deceased qualified for SS, there is a lump-sum death benefit payment of $255, that the funeral director will help you claim.

If you have any further questions about arranging a cremation service, call us on (253) 237-8460, and we will be happy to assist you.

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

Posted on December 21, 2019 by N. G Pelling

If you need to arrange a simple and affordable cremation, we have put together this guide to help you. In fact, you can arrange a simple, basic cremation for just $1,195!

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Daphne is $6,930*, and this does not include cemetery costs, so it is understandable that many families today are looking to more affordable alternatives.

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

Why choose cremation services?

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

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

What different cremation alternatives do I have?

There are 3 main types of cremation service options. A cremation funeral – where the funeral service is held with the deceased present and a cremation is conducted after the service. A cremation memorial – where the cremation is conducted before a memorial service is held. This can be with, or without, the cremated remains present and can often take the form of an ash scattering ceremony. Or there is a direct cremation – this is where the deceased is cremated with no services, and the remains are given back to the family. There are some variances around these 3 main options, such as a private viewing before the cremation, an observed cremation, or a graveside interment of a cremation urn.

How much does a cremation cost in Daphne?

The cost of a cremation can vary considerably. This will depend upon the type of cremation service you opt for and the cremation services provider you select. The average cost of a cremation memorial service is $3,817, depending upon the length of service held and what kind of casket you purchase or rent. Although a direct cremation package can be conducted for just $1,195 with DFS Memorials.

Direct cremation services in Daphne, AL

If you are working to a budget for your funeral expenses, you may wish to consider a direct cremation. A direct cremation is the cheapest cremation option. The funeral services provider does everything to take care of the immediate disposition of the deceased but no viewing or services are held. The deceased is cremated in a simple cremation container and then the cremated remains are made available for the family or collect (or if requested delivered/mailed). A direct cremation can be arranged online or by phone without any need for you to visit a funeral home. For your best price on a direct cremation contact your DFS Memorials provider in Daphne on (251) 206-5572 who offers a complete direct cremation package for just $1,195.

How do I choose a cremation services provider?

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

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

Comparing cremation costs in Daphne, AL

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

When comparing costs and services, check what IS included, especially with a budget direct cremation package. Is a copy of the death certificate included? Is the cremation permit an additional cash advance item or included? What about if an out-of-hours collection is required? Is there an additional daily refrigeration charge if the cremation does not proceed after in a given time-frame? Death certificates cost $15.00 for the first certificate and $6 for each additional death certificate required. You should also note that the county coroner may charge a fee if they are required to sign the death certificate.

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

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

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

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

Can I preplan a cremation?

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

What can we do with the cremated remains?

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

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

Sadly there is little financial aid that supports those families that find themselves struggling with funeral costs. Most counties do have a budget for indigent funerals but this is generally for those individuals who truly are indigent. Some counties do have limited funds to help low-income families with cremation costs but this can vary county by county. You would need to make inquiries with Baldwin County Human Services Department at 22259 Palmer Street, Robertsdale, AL 36567 to find out if any assistance is available to you. In these cases often the most basic of funeral services will be supported, with limited control over what happens. A low -ost direct cremation from DFS Memorials can be arranged for $1,195.

What is “no-cost cremation”?

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

How do I obtain a copy of a death certificate?

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

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

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.

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

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

*Prices obtained from online funeral price comparison survey 2018

Affordable funerals: Cremation costs in Seattle?

Posted on November 30, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

The cremation trend is sweeping our nation and is already a popular disposition choice in Washington with 6 in 10 families opting for cremation for their end of life disposition choice. Why is cremation the preferred choice for Seattle families? Cremation offers a simple, affordable and flexible funeral option. Read more to find out about cremation costs in Seattle.

Why choose cremation over burial?

Several reasons are cited for why families are now choosing cremation rather than burial. Cost is by far the most common reason why a family will now opt for cremation. A cremation generally costs at least one-third of the cost of a traditional funeral. Traditionalism is also in decline as is religiosity, and we are now much more environmentally aware. Cremation offers a cheaper, non-secular and eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial

What are cremation costs in Seattle?

This is the ‘magic’ question that most families want to answer now before they proceed with making funeral arrangements. We live in an era where price comparison is the norm, and finding a deal is an important aspect of how we purchase services and products. A funeral can be a large purchase for many families and one that they do not want to spend unnecessarily on.

The popularity of simple cremation in Seattle has resulted in competitive cremation rates. There is a demand for simple cremation services in Seattle, and it is possible to arrange a basic cremation for around $600. A cremation with a memorial is likely to cost in the region of $1,299 and a full-service cremation starts at around $2,000.

A direct cremation is a term used for the simplest and most economical cremation service. No services are offered with a direct cremation.

How do the cremation costs compare in the Seattle-Tacoma area?

The cost of a cremation service can vary considerably in the same area. The cost of a cremation can vary between funeral service providers for the exact same service. A direct cremation service can cost from $600 to around $3,000.

DFS Memorial’s low-cost direct cremation package at $600 provides peace of mind at an affordable cost whilst dealing with a local independent funeral service provider. Advanced planning options are available.

What is included with a direct cremation in Seattle?

A direct cremation generally includes:

Collecting the deceased
Preparing all the necessary paperwork (death certificates, cremation authorization, cremation permit, etc)
Preparation of the body for cremation
Storage of the remains until the cremation can be performed*
A basic cremation container
The cremation fee
A temporary urn (to return the cremated remains to the family)

The fees for the death certificate and cremation permit are ‘cash advances’ and are an extra fee added to most direct cremation packages.

To arrange a low-cost cremation call us now on (206) 745-9744

Additional costs may be incurred or option for a residential removal, additional mileage (if outside a service area), extended storage (if cremation cannot be performed after a mandatory waiting period), oversize cremation fee (for individuals weighing over 300 lbs) and the selection of a cremation urn.

Life celebration and cremation

Today we are moving into an era where funerals are less somber events and more of a celebration of a life lived. Cremation offers a great opportunity to be able to arrange a life celebration ceremony. A memorial service does not have to be held immediately when family and friends are still in the midst of their immediate grief but can be scheduled at a later date. A celebrant can work with the family to plan a Life Tribute almost equivalent to how a wedding planner would stage a grand wedding ceremony!

What can you do with the cremated remains?

Cremated remains can be interred in a grave or columbarium, stored at home in a cremation urn, scattered or converted into a myriad of cremation artifacts.

Cremation memorialization

“Personalization” is the buzz phrase in the funeral industry today. As funeral profits have declined with lower-cost cremation services, many funeral homes in Seattle have looked towards personalization and the many cremation memorialization industries to help make incremental revenue. Many families want to do something unique with the cremation ashes, and these days the options are almost limitless! You can have a cremation diamond made from around $3,000, have ashes embedded into a memorial reef for around $6,000 or have cremation ashes blast into space or tattooed into your body!

Ash scattering in Seattle

For those that want a simpler and less expensive memorialization option – ash scattering is proving to be a memorialization alternative. Cremated remains can be scattered at sea in the Puget Sound or over land in a favorite spot of the deceased. Read this guide on Ash Scattering for more information.

Preplanning a basic cremation in Seattle

Preplanning your funeral wishes can save a family from the decision-making process at a time of immense distress, and ensure your wishes are met. You can set up a prepaid cremation plan where the funds are put in trust or take out an insurance that covers your cremation needs.

Alternatively, you can prearrange with a cremation provider and put the required funds aside in a payable on death (POD) account. This ensures your money remains in your control and any interest accrued stays with you. At the time of death, the named beneficiary can withdraw the funds and pay the funeral home.

Cremation is revolutionizing how we view death care, how much it costs and how we memorialize in the 21^st century. To find out more about cremation services in Seattle – call us now on (206) 745-9744

$600 low-cost cremation is available throughout King, Snohomish, and Kitsap counties and all of the Tacoma-Seattle area.

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

Posted on October 31, 2019 by N. G Pelling

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

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

How funeral care is changing and economic reasons for choosing cremation

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

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

How much does a funeral cost in Wheaton?

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

How much does a cremation cost in Wheaton?

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

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

How much is a direct cremation in Wheaton, IL?

A basic cremation can be conducted in Wheaton for as little as $995 complete. This is what is known as a “direct cremation”. No services are performed, the deceased is collected, transported to the funeral facility, prepared for cremation and the cremation is conducted. The cremated remains are returned to the family in a temporary plastic urn. If desired the family can arrange a brief final goodbye viewing at the funeral home.

Call DFS Memorials now on (815) 216-4601 to arrange a low-cost cremation for $995

What type of cremation services are available?

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

How to compare cremation costs in Wheaton, IL

As mentioned the cost of a cremation can vary enormously – for the exact same service – but from different cremation service providers. Ensure that you compare like-for-like services. Some cremation service providers include crematory fees and cremation container costs in a direct cremation package, and others do not always include these fees. Death certificate fees and cremation permits are often additional ‘cash advance’ items.

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

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

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Wheaton

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

It is not necessary to embalm a body for cremation and refrigerated storage is used to preserve the body until the cremation is performed. The funeral home will generally store the body for up to 5 days in refrigerated storage at no extra charge. If the cremation does not go ahead within 5 days, an additional fee for storage may be incurred.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

Cremation offers some greater flexibility in what you can do with the cremated remains once you have them returned. You can, of course, inter them in a grave plot or niche. However, you can choose to store them in an urn at home or scatter the cremated remains. There are also options such as having cremation artifacts made from cremated remains such as cremation diamonds, glass jewelry, garden stones, and paintings.

Preplanning an affordable cremation service

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

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

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

If you are faced with this situation, you need to explore what help may be available to you. Social Security pay out a $255 lump sum death benefit (if you qualify) and your funeral director can assist you with this.

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

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

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

If the deceased was the victim of a crime, or there were unusual circumstances surrounding the death, the deceased’s body may be taken into the care of the coroner for an examination to determine the cause of death. You will need to employ the services of a funeral director as soon as possible to coordinate the release of your loved one from the ME’s office.

A deceased person can only be released into the care of a licensed funeral director. Many funeral homes are familiar with the process to liaise with the ME to have the body released as quickly as possible. You may also find that a simple, direct cremation can be arranged at a very low cost when the deceased is in the Coroner’s morgue as all the paperwork can be expedited quickly and the process to transfer the deceased to the funeral facility is simplified.

Address of county coroner’s office: 414 N County Farm Rd, Wheaton, IL 60187

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

*Funeral prices obtained from Parting funeral price comparison survey 2019

Arranging an affordable cremation service in Plano, TX – Just $755

Posted on October 30, 2019 by N. G Pelling

Do you need to find out how to arrange an affordable cremation in Plano? We have put together this guide to help you understand how you can save thousands of dollars when arranging a funeral. In fact, you can arrange a simple, basic cremation for just $755!

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Plano is $7,912*, 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 can save thousands of dollars.

What different cremation alternatives do I have?

There are 3 main types of cremation service options. A cremation funeral – where the funeral service is held with the deceased present and a cremation is conducted after the service. A cremation memorial – where the cremation is conducted before a memorial service is held. This can be with, or without, the cremated remains present and can often take the form of an ash scattering ceremony. Or there is a direct cremation – this is where the deceased is cremated with no services, and the remains are given back to the family. There are some variances around these 3 main options, such as a private viewing before the cremation, an observed cremation, or a graveside interment of a cremation urn.

How much does a cremation cost in Plano?

The cost of a cremation can vary considerably. This will depend upon the type of cremation service you opt for and the cremation services provider you select. The average cost of a cremation memorial service is $4,490, depending upon the length of service held and what kind of casket you purchase or rent. The average cost of a direct cremation is $1,922*, although a direct cremation can be conducted for just $755 with DFS Memorials.

Direct cremation services in Plano, TX

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 Plano on (972) 332-0414 who offers a complete direct cremation package for just $755.

How do I choose a cremation services provider?

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

Comparing cremation costs in Plano, TX

According to funeral price research surveys in Plano, the average cost of a direct cremation is $1,922, although a direct cremation can be arranged for less than this with some cremation providers. DFS Memorials offer a direct cremation service for $755.

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 $21.00 for the first certificate and $4 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 Plano?

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

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 Collin County Human Services Department at 210 South McDonald Street, McKinney TX 75069 Phone: (972)424-1460 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 $755.

What is “no-cost cremation”?

Some funeral homes now offer this option in Plano. 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: 2300 Bloomdale Road £2104 McKinney, TX 75071 Phone: (972) 548-4185

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

Collin County Medical Examiner & Coroner 700 Wilmeth Road McKinney TX 75069 (972)-548-3775

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

*Prices obtained from online funeral price comparison survey 2019

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

Posted on October 17, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

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

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

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

Why choose cremation?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How much does a cremation cost?

Credit: Parting.com

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

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

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

What if the deceased is at the Medical Examiners?

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

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

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

What if we have no money for a funeral?

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

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

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

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

Posted on October 2, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

Over 55% of Americans now choose cremation as their ‘preferred’ disposition and death care option. This shift from traditional burial to cremation is having a huge impact on the funeral industry. Because, while cremation means that funerals are becoming more affordable for families, it means that funeral homes’ revenue is declining. What we are starting to witness in 2019 is the impact of cremation in terms of pricing.

Cremation saves on funeral costs

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

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

A direct cremation, is where a simple cremation is conducted, without any ceremony or services. This means the funeral establishment (or crematory) simply handle the collection of the deceased, complete the required legal administration, and perform the cremation. The cremated remains are then returned directly to the family. What this means is that it can be delivered at a much-reduced cost. The demand for direct cremation is challenging an industry that once did not even feel a need to provide up-front funeral pricing. Now, cremation consumers are shopping around to compare cremation prices, and seeking out the most affordable direct cremation service they can find. As within other consumer sectors, why would you opt to pay hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars more, for the exact same product or service?

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

A direct cremation ranges in cost in any one area. If you conduct a simple comparison between 5 funeral homes and cremation providers, asking for the cost of a direct cremation from their General Price List, you will see a difference in price. Especially if you select a range of different providers from the small funeral home to large corporate funeral home. In most major cities, a direct cremation can be conducted for between $595 to $995. Rural areas tend to be more expensive, as there is less competition for the cremation market.

Comparing cremation prices

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

AREA	DFS Provider direct cremation price	Average direct cremation price*
New York City NY	$485	$1,969
Los Angeles CA	$625	$1,524
Houston TX	$640	$2,173
Chicago IL	$995	$1,949
Philadelphia PA	$1,095	$1,798
Phoenix AZ	$639	$1,337
San Antonio TX	$595	$1,856
San Diego CA	$600	$1,358
Jacksonville FL	$695	$1,648
Dallas-Fort Worth TX	$755	$1,944
Indianapolis IN	$750	$2,261
Seattle WA	$600	$1,519
Detroit MI	$845	$1,199
Boston MA	$1,395	$2,332
Memphis TN	$995	$2,060
Oklahoma City OK	$945	$1,914
Las Vegas NV	$795	$1,526
Louisville KY	$750	$1,880
Denver CO	$1,295	$1,791

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

Are cremation prices likely to rise in 2019?

Cremation planning The market for cremation services will continue to become more competitive. Cremation has continued to disrupt the funeral industry in 2020 as this article explains.

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

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

We observed an example of this recently with Foundation Partners (a privately-owned funeral business with 80 locations in 17 states) acquiring a longstanding family business in Tucson. The family business had offered the lowest cost direct cremation to families in Tucson and continues to operate under the existing funeral home name. I would anticipate that once these large funeral entities position themselves to dominate a market, we are likely to see cremation prices rise again.

Pre-arranging cremation services

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

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

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

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

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

Simple and affordable cremation services in Macon, GA

Posted on September 25, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

Funerals need not be as expensive as many of us have been led to believe. Although the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) surveyed the average cost of a funeral at $7,360 in 2017, without any cemetery fees included; in reality, a simple funeral service can be arranged for half this amount, or even less. If you want to arrange an affordable cremation service in Macon, this guide should help you understand how to save on your funeral expenses.

How much can I expect to pay for a funeral service in Macon?

The cost of a funeral can vary quite significantly. This will depend upon the type of funeral service you opt for and the funeral service provider you select. If you do any research with local funeral homes you will discover that the price for a funeral package will vary from different providers, even for the exact same services! Whilst the NFDA can quote the average cost of a funeral at $7,360, it is absolutely possible to arrange a funeral for considerably less than this.

How much does a cremation cost in Macon?

Cremation services in Macon range from $995 to $2,895, again depending on the type of cremation service chosen. A full-service cremation costs more than a simple direct cremation. The lowest cost option is a direct cremation which costs $995 and includes:

Professional services of our highly trained funeral directors and staff
Transportation of your loved one from the location of death (additional fee if over 40 miles)
Alternative cremation container and temporary box
Preparation of all required documents and authorizations
Coordination with the cemetery for burial, if desired.

How do I select a funeral services provider?

cremation-services-macon-ga If you have no prior experience with a funeral services provider this can seem an overwhelming task. Consult with friends and associates and seek recommendations. If you are using the Internet to research funeral services and prices in Macon, be sure to check the ownership of who you are dealing with. Some funeral companies have set up online budget cremation businesses, and some corporate groups also trade as low-cost cremation companies. If you are in doubt, ask if they are independently-owned. DFS Memorials only work with reputable, licensed and independently-owned funeral homes.

How can I save money when arranging a funeral or cremation?

These days many of us are concerned about having the necessary funds to conduct funeral services for a loved one if no provision was made. Let’s face it…not many folks can just produce thousands of dollars at the drop of a hat! There are ways that you can ensure you keep your funeral expenses to a minimum.

Generally, a cremation will work out less expensive than a burial, namely as no immediate cemetery fees are required for cremation. However, a dignified burial can be achieved at a very affordable cost. Immediate burial with no services costs far less than a traditional burial. This is where the deceased is transferred immediately to the cemetery for burial.

Opting for cremation means that there is no need for a casket, burial vault or cemetery plot. And eliminating these costs alone can save you several thousand dollars.

What is ‘direct cremation’?

A direct cremation is where the deceased is cremated but no services or ceremony is held. Minimal services are offered by the funeral director to collect the deceased, prepare the body for cremation, and process all the required paperwork. The deceased is cremated in a simple cremation container and the remains are made available for the family to collect or have delivered to them. No funeral home visit is required for a direct cremation service. In many cases, the funeral director will visit you at home to sign the paperwork and consult with you about arrangements.

A direct cremation is becoming very popular as a way in which the funeral home can assist in the immediate disposition of the deceased for an affordable fee but leaves the family with the opportunity to conduct their own memorial ceremony once they have the cremated remains back.

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

cremation-costs-macon This is one question that a lot of families ask. There are strict laws governing how human cremation is conducted. Operatives are trained in the processes and only one body can be cremated in a retort at any one time. The retort chamber is then fully cleared before another cremation proceeds. A body is tagged the minute it is logged into the funeral home or crematory and ID checks are done at each step of the process.

What can I do with the cremated remains?

You can inter cremated remains into a grave plot or niche at a cemetery, keep a cremation urn at home, or scatter the remains in a place of your choosing. Today there are many options for how we can memorialize a lost loved one and there is now a range of cremation artifacts that can be created to help us immortalize the memory of a loved one, from birdbaths made with concrete infused with cremation ashes to memorial diamonds! Other folks are choosing to scatter ashes in a memorable place for a loved one’s last resting place. Read this section on Ash Scattering for more ideas.

What if the deceased had no life insurance & I do not have the money to pay for a funeral?

Sadly more folks are passing today without life insurance or having put in place the provision or plans for their funeral care. If this happens the responsibility falls to the next of kin to make funeral arrangements and pay for funeral expenses.

You should avoid incurring debt to cover funeral costs, so it is essential to minimize whatever expense your family has to pay out. A simple direct cremation is the lowest cost option, and once you have the cremated remains back you can always conduct your own memorial service (or ash scattering) which saves you the cost of paying a funeral services provider for their services and chapel.

There is the $255 lump sum death benefit from Social Security if you qualify to claim this and the funeral director will generally assist you with this.

What if the deceased is at the Medical Examiners?

If the deceased is held in the custody of the County Coroner at Bibb county Medical Examiners office, you will need the services of a licensed funeral director. The Medical Examiner can only release the body to a licensed funeral director. The funeral home will ask you to sign an authorization to release form stating that said funeral home is authorized by the legal next of kin to collect the body. Most funeral homes are familiar with the process (and the staff) at Bibb county coroners’ office and can arrange a prompt release of your loved one.