Affordable direct cremation service in Long Island, NY

Posted on April 23, 2023 by Sara Marsden

Direct cremation offers families in Long Island a simple and affordable alternative to the costs associated with a traditional funeral.

This guide should help you understand what options you have for a cremation service in Nassau County, how choosing cremation can save you on funeral costs, and answer some other questions about cremation.

If you have an immediate need for a low-cost cremation service, call your local DFS Memorials provider at (516) 406-8141. Direct cremation service packages start at $895 in Long Island.

Why choose a cremation service?

The key reason more families are choosing a cremation service is cost. A cremation service costs significantly less than a traditional burial. There is no requirement for embalming, and a casket, burial vault, and cemetery plot are not needed. All of these reduce your overall cost for a funeral by at least half if not two-thirds.

In addition to this, a cremation service offers greater flexibility as a service does not have to be held immediately, or remains can be transported back to a different state if necessary.

Can you still have a funeral service if you choose cremation?

Yes, a cremation funeral is just the same as a traditional funeral. Only the deceased is cremated following the service instead of interred. If you opt to have a cremation conducted immediately, you can have a service after the cremation with the cremation urn present. This is known as a Cremation Memorial.

If you opt for a direct cremation in Long Island, you can choose to arrange your own memorial service after the cremated remains are returned to the family. A direct cremation service is a cremation without a ceremony. The funeral services provider simply conducts everything to take care of the cremation disposition and then returns your loved one’s ashes directly to you.

To learn more, visit our Guide to Cremation – The Process, Service Options, Legal Requirements, and Cremation Costs.

What does a cremation cost?

This is not a simple question to answer. The first thing to say is that the cost of a cremation will vary. It will vary by cremation provider, by what type of cremation service option you select, and prices even vary by area.

In NY state, a funeral service provider is not allowed to operate a crematory, so the crematory fee is always considered a ‘third-party’ fee. It will be added to your funeral home charge for a cremation.

To give you an idea of cremation costs, I can tell you that the average cost for a direct cremation in Nassau County will range from $895 to $2,800, depending on the funeral home you choose.

What legally do you need to know about direct cremation in Long Island?

For a cremation to be legally conducted, it must be authorized by the immediate next of kin. The funeral director will ask the next of kin to sign a Cremation Authorization Form. There is generally a 24-72 hour wait period after the death occurred before the cremation can go ahead, although this is mandated differently in different states.

The funeral director will need to obtain permission to cremate from the county coroner and obtain a cremation permit. Once the waiting period has expired, the cremation authorization form is correctly signed and notarized by the next of kin, and the coroner has issued the cremation permit, the cremation can be scheduled.

It will usually take 7-10 days to arrange a cremation, and the deceased will be sheltered in the funeral home or crematory in refrigerated storage. If there are delays in completing all the legal paperwork, it can take a little longer.

If the immediate next of kin are siblings (and there is more than one sibling), then all siblings need to sign the authorization form for a cremation to proceed. This tends to be one of the main reasons that a cremation gets delayed, as there is a disagreement between siblings on authorizing the cremation.

What can you do with the cremated remains?

There is a whole realm of options for how to memorialize with cremated remains. You can, of course, inter the remains in a cemetery plot or cremation niche…. similar to a burial interment. Other options include: keeping the cremation urn at home, performing an ash-scattering, or having a cremation tribute made from some of the remains. DFS Memorials offers an optional sea scattering with a direct cremation service for an additional $290.00.

A benefit of cremation is that you do not need to make an immediate decision about the final disposition. Sometimes it can be easier to hold onto the urn for a while whilst you have time to reflect and consider what is the most befitting disposition.

Is there any financial help for families who cannot afford a funeral?

You would need to consult with the Nassau County Social Services department. Therefore, a direct cremation can offer a simple and affordable solution to handling the unexpected disposition of a family member if finances are an issue.

A dignified direct cremation can be conducted for $1,035 (with all fees included), and then the family can arrange to hold their own memorial service.

There is the $255 lump-sum Social Services death benefit payment if the deceased qualifies, which can help towards the cremation cost.

If you need further assistance, check our DFS Memorials Cremation Blog for more articles on cremation. If you need to arrange a simple and affordable direct cremation in Long Island, contact DFS Memorials at (516) 406-8141.

Cremation costs in Queens, NY – just $495 + crematory fee

Posted on April 20, 2023 by Sara Marsden

Are you concerned about funeral costs? This brief guide to funeral and cremation costs in Queens, NY, can help you understand the differences in price for a funeral and, more importantly, how you can arrange a simple, basic cremation for as little as $495.00.

A direct cremation service can enable you to keep funeral expenses to a minimum if you need to arrange a dignified but affordable disposition.

What is the average cost of a funeral in Queens?

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 Queens for you.

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Queens is $6,841*, although the lowest price is $3,660.

So how do cremation costs compare in Queens?

Cremation offers a cheaper and more flexible alternative to a traditional burial and can, therefore, significantly reduce funeral costs in Queens.

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 Queens is $3,915*.

Direct cremation services in Queens, NY

A direct cremation is the funeral industry term for a ‘simple cremation.’ Only the cremation service is provided by the funeral home. The funeral home provides no ceremony or funeral services. The deceased is collected and cremated, and the remains are 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. It 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 Queens for $495, although the average price for a direct cremation is $1,969. To help families arrange affordable cremation services, we have selected a cremation services provider who offers a direct cremation for just $495, saving you hundreds of dollars on cremation costs in Queens.

Please note that as New York laws prohibit a funeral home from owning a crematory, all crematories are separately operated. This means that the funeral home must charge the crematory fee as a “third party” fee. It is not part of their GPL pricing, and it is an additional fee that the funeral director pays to the crematory.

The crematory fee is $180.00, and the NYC cremation permit fee is $40. With a death certificate and processing fee, this means that the total package price for a direct cremation in Queens is around $730.00

Call now at (718) 395-3142 to arrange a low-cost cremation

Are there additional fees to the $495 cremation?

For a cremation to be conducted, an NYC cremation permit must be issued by the county. Death certificates are an additional cost, as these are issued by the county and are a third-party expense. Death certificates cost $15 for the first certificate and $10 for each additional copy issued. As mentioned above, the standard crematory fee is $180. If an expedited cremation is required, this fee may increase.

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. The legal next of kin must sign a Cremation Authorization Form, and in the case of children, many funeral directors will require all children to 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. Call your local provider now at (718) 395-3142 to discuss pre-planning options.

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 New York, 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. In NYC, there is some funding available to support low-income families with funeral costs.

As up to $900 can be paid, this can enable a family struggling financially to cover the cost of a simple cremation. Check out NYC Burial Assistance Program to see how you can find help with cremation costs in Queens.

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 $495 with DFS Memorials is a dignified yet affordable disposition alternative if your family is struggling financially.

If you have further questions about cremation, feel free to call us at (718) 395-3142, and we will be happy to try and help you.

*Funeral prices obtained from online funeral price survey website 2023

Arrange a simple, direct cremation in Pompano Beach, FL

Posted on March 10, 2023 by Sara Marsden

Are you looking for a simple and affordable cremation option in Pompano Beach? Did you know you can arrange a direct cremation for $995 complete?

This is a simple and inexpensive way to conduct a funeral if you have limited resources or simply prefer a direct cremation at a value cost.

Why spend more?

How funeral care is changing and the 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, an affordable 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 arranging funerals 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.

Visit our Complete Guide to Cremation to learn all about cremation, the process, the costs, service options, and laws governing a cremation disposition.

This article also provides a breakdown of Cremation Costs in Florida.

How much does a funeral cost in Pompano Beach?

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 Pompano Beach is $5,862*.

How much does a cremation cost in Pompano Beach?

Firstly, a cremation WILL save you on funeral costs. There is no requirement for a casket, cemetery plot, or burial vault. Eliminating these costs 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 Pompano Beach, DO vary quite considerably between funeral homes, 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 $3,677*. However, it is possible to find much lower-priced cremation services in Pompano Beach.

How much is a direct cremation in Pompano Beach?

A basic cremation can be conducted in Pompano Beach 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.

Call DFS Memorials now at (954) 932-3363 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 direct 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 Pompano Beach, FL

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 cremation 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 ones remains?

This is probably the most common cremation question we are asked. Strict laws govern the cremation of human remains, and identity checks must 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 Pompano Beach

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

It is unnecessary 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, bird baths, 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 pays 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 Broward County Human Services Department at:

115 S Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Phone: (954) 357-6385

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

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 of liaising 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: 5301 SW 31^st Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

We hope this cremation 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 Pompano, FL. If you need to research more information on funeral planning, please visit the Resource section on US Funerals Online.

*Funeral prices obtained from Parting funeral price comparison survey 2022

Direct cremation cost in San Francisco – $1,195

Posted on January 19, 2023 by Cremation Advisor

Check out our guide to cremation costs in San Francisco. Cremation is not only a very popular disposition choice for families in the Bay Area, but it is also a very affordable funeral option today. In some counties in California around the Bay Area, cremation accounts for over 90% of funerals conducted.

California has always been a ‘progressive’ state, and it seems Californians’ attitudes towards death rituals adopt a modern, and maybe less traditionalist, approach. Still, what you can buy for your dollar in terms of cremation services can vary significantly, so we have put together this brief guide to help families understand cremation costs and services in San Francisco.

How much does a cremation cost in San Francisco/ the Bay Area?

This is never a straightforward question, as cremation prices vary between different funeral homes in the Bay Area. The average cost of a cremation is around $9,000 (NFDA 2022), yet the cost for cremation can range from $1,195 to $6,000, depending upon the type of cremation service and the ancillary products. It is fair to say that even comparing the same cremation service can produce various prices.

Understanding different cremation packages and services

You can customize your cremation service to personally fit your needs, but generally, there are 3 main types of cremation service.

Direct or immediate cremation (with no services or ceremony)
Cremation funeral services (ceremony held prior to cremation)
Cremation Memorial services (ceremony held after cremation)

It is not always easy comparing cremation services because funeral homes either offer a lengthy itemized general price list (GPL) or package together different services/merchandise. It is important to carefully check exactly what IS included in any cremation package.

It is not uncommon to see a cremation service that appears to be at an affordable price, only to discover that it is not an inclusive price. A funeral home can add ‘cash advance’ items to a quoted cremation price, and these will be items that the funeral director has to pay out to a third party. This can include items such as the cremation permit, cremation fee (if the funeral home does not own its own crematory), and death certificates.

It is also wise to carefully check whether such things as additional refrigerated storage is included if the cremation cannot proceed within a certain timeframe or additional fees for transportation and collection.

Visit our Guide to Cremation – Everything from when the deceased is collected to the family receiving the cremated remains, to learn more about the process and steps.

Oversize cremation in the Bay Area

With a growing obesity issue, we are asked about cremations for overweight people more often these days. A standard cremation is generally suitable for a person weighing up to 250 pounds. For a person weighing over 250 pounds, an additional fee may be required if the crematory is suitable to handle an oversize person.

Modern cremation services & life celebration services

Cremation allows for much greater flexibility in how we approach our death care ritual. If gathering the family together immediately is difficult, a cremation memorial service can be held at a date and time that is convenient.

It also means that a ceremony can be held when the family has had a chance to recover from the immediate shock of the bereavement, allowing for time and reflection to plan a befitting ceremony. Today we are moving into an era where a life celebration is replacing the traditional funeral – more of an upbeat celebration of a life lived than a somber mourning event.

Families often choose to have the cremation performed and use the services of a celebrant to lead a memorial service. Some families even opt to arrange their own memorial service – making it totally personalized.

Cremated remains can be shipped anywhere relatively inexpensively, so this also enables more flexibility in funeral services. Mom or Pop passes in a state to which they retired but can easily and at minimal cost be transported back to their home state for a service and/or interment.

A direct cremation: the lowest cost cremation option in San Francisco

If just a simple, low-cost cremation service is what you require – the no-frills cremation – then a direct cremation is for you. A direct cremation is where the cremation proceeds without any services, viewing, etc., and then the cremated remains are returned directly to the family.

It is also referred to as an immediate cremation, or many funeral homes in San Francisco will refer to it as a basic or simple cremation. You can arrange a complete direct cremation within the Bay Area for $1,195. This includes the collection of the deceased, storage for the mandatory waiting period, completion of all necessary paperwork, a basic cremation container, the cremation process, and returning the cremated remains to the family in a temporary urn.

Direct disposers in San Francisco

California is one of 2 states that licenses direct disposers. A direct disposer is NOT a licensed funeral home, but he is licensed to conduct only direct cremations. As they do not have to operate a funeral home, they can operate with a much-reduced overhead, enabling them to offer direct cremations at a reduced price. However, you should note that this reduced price will reflect the level of service offered. A direct disposer will not be able to offer any viewing and may add additional fees for incremental services.

How do I choose a cremation services provider?

It can be confusing to decide which cremation provider to choose. There are around 30 funeral homes in San Francisco, so start with your specific criteria to narrow your selection process.

If cost and value are important, you need to seek a low-cost cremation provider. Generally, corporate funeral homes tend to be more expensive, although even some family-owned funeral homes can be as expensive. Shop around some and compare costs and services. Check for reviews and recommendations from family, co-workers, or support networks.

DFS Memorials does some of this for you. So we check around, compare cremation prices and reviews, and select only reputable funeral homes that offer the best value cremation service to work with the network.

Call DFS Memorials NOW at (415) 286-9121

To arrange a Direct Cremation for $1,195

The deceased had no life insurance: Is there any help with cremation costs in San Francisco?

Any financial assistance available for funerals varies so much by state and county that you really need to speak with your local county human services or social services to find out what, if any, public aid may be available. They can best advise on what is available and whether or not you would be eligible, depending on your personal circumstances.

There is the $255 Social Security death payment (if you qualify), and veterans qualify for a free grave plot, marker, and flag. If you have concerns about how you can afford a funeral, then a direct cremation is your cheapest option.

Our $1,195 direct cremation is available throughout Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz & Stanislaus counties.

Selecting Affordable Cremation Services in Kissimmee, FL

Posted on January 17, 2023 by Sara Marsden

The cremation trend is changing the way we think about arranging a funeral. Cremation has been a popular choice in Florida for a number of years now, especially with a retiree and transient population.

Selecting a simple and affordable direct cremation service package in Kissimmee can be the easiest and least expensive way to conduct disposition services at the place of death before transporting remains.

The DFS Memorials provider, Mortuary Services of Florida, is a licensed Direct Disposer Establishment as licensed by the Florida State Board F438949. Licensed to conduct direct cremations only.

Deciding whether to bury or cremate

Deciding whether to bury or cremate is a personal choice, but for some families, the decision is dictated by the budget they have for a funeral. 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.

Also, 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.

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 Kissimmee?

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. Online funeral price surveys suggest that the average cost of a funeral in Kissimmee is $7,295.*

How much does a cremation cost in Kissimmee?

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 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 Kissimmee vary considerably between funeral homes, cremation service providers, and direct disposal establishments, 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 $3,973*. However, it is possible to find much lower-priced cremation services in Kissimmee.

How much is a direct cremation in Kissimmee, FL?

A basic cremation can be conducted in Kissimmee for as little as $1,095 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 at (407) 720-8865 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 offers versatility in your options and when and where any services can be held.

Visit our page on What Happens During the Cremation Process – for a full explanation of cremation every step of the way. From when your loved one is collected to when you receive the cremated remains.

How to compare cremation costs in Kissimmee, FL

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 ones’ 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 must be completely cleared following a cremation, and only one 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 Florida

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

It is unnecessary to embalm a body for cremation, and refrigerated storage is used to preserve the body until it 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 five days, an additional fee for storage may be incurred.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

Cremation offers greater flexibility in what you can do with the cremated remains once you have 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, bird baths, and paintings.

You can also opt to hold an Ash Scattering Memorial Tribute. Visit our Complete Guide to Scattering Cremated Remains to learn more.

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

Sadly, more folks are passing away without leaving the means to pay for their funeral. If a family member has died and you are faced with this situation, you need to explore what help may be available to you.

Social Security pays 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. You should contact Osceola County Human Services Department to find out what may be available.

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 of liaising 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. The process of transferring the deceased to the funeral facility is simplified.

Address of county coroner’s office: Osceola County Medical Examiner1401 Lucerne Ter, Orlando, FL 32806 Phone: (407) 836-9400

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 Kissimmee, FL. If you need to research more information on funeral planning, please visit the Funeral Resources section on US Funerals Online.

*Funeral prices obtained from Funeralocity 2022

How to arrange an affordable cremation service in Akron, OH

Posted on June 4, 2020 by Cremation Advisor

This short guide aims to help you understand cremation options and costs in Akron. We understand that many families today are seeking more affordable alternatives when it comes to death care. The internet has provided a great way to research pricing and services for many sectors, yet still, many funeral homes do not disclose their prices online. Here, we inform you of what average costs are, and how to find the most affordable cremation option in Akron.

What is the average cost of a funeral in Akron?

Funeral prices can vary considerably, for the exact same service package, from different service providers. For this reason, it is always advisable to compare prices from more than one funeral service provider. To help you save time, we have compiled a brief overview of cremation pricing in Akron.

The average cost of a traditional funeral service in Akron, compiled from a list of Akron funeral homes indicates that the average price for a full-service funeral is $5,798*. This does not include any cemetery fees. The average cost of a simple, direct burial is $2,011*.

What are cremation costs in Akron?

The average cost of a Cremation Memorial service is $2,926*, with the lowest price available at around $2,000. A Cremation Memorial service is where the deceased is first cremated and then a service held with the cremated remains present.

The most affordable cremation option in Akron is direct cremation. This is where the deceased is collected, prepared, and cremated with no services conducted by the funeral home. The deceased is simply ‘directly’ cremated, and then the cremated remains are returned to the family.

The family, if they wish, can then hold their own memorial service at a place and time that suits them. This can also save further costs on the overall price of a funeral.

The average cost of a direct cremation in Akron is $1,628*, although it is possible to arrange an affordable direct cremation for as little as $895 in Akron.

This is why a low-cost, no-fuss, direct cremation is the most affordable and simple disposition option for families with limited funds, or where no funeral services are required.

If you would like to know more about arranging a low-cost direct cremation in Akron, OH please call us.

*Funeral prices obtained from Parting funeral price survey May 2019

Understanding cremation costs in Connecticut

Posted on July 20, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

The cremation rate continues to rise, with more families considering a cremation service as an alternative to a burial service. So how much does a cremation cost in Connecticut? And how can you save money on funeral expenses by arranging a cremation service?

The national average cost for a cremation funeral service in 2017 was $6,260 [NFDA: 2018 Cremation & Burial Report]. This is for a cremation funeral where the deceased is cremated following a funeral service. A cremation memorial service is usually less expensive, as cremation is conducted before the funeral service.

So, let’s have a look at what you can expect for cremation memorial costs across Connecticut.

What can you expect to pay for cremation in Hartford?

The cost of funerals and cremations is a little above average in Connecticut. Funeral service providers report that gas prices are higher than average, making cremation prices higher than in other parts of the country.

The average price for a cremation memorial service in Hartford is $3,863*, with the average price for a simple, direct cremation service coming in at just under $3,000. This does not account for the fact that there are several funeral homes offering a direct cremation for around $2,000.

The price of cremation in New Haven, CT

The average cremation memorial in New Haven costs $3,718*, with surveys reporting the average price of direct cremation at $2,692*.

Cremation costs in Bridgeport, CT

The average price for a cremation memorial service in Bridgeport is $3,409*, with the average cost for a cremation reported at $2,370. However, the lowest cost for a direct cremation service is $2,000. This makes a direct cremation the most affordable funeral option in Fairfield county.

Choosing a Cremation Package

cremation-cedar-rapids-iowa A funeral home must have a general price list (GPL) outlining their service charges but many funeral homes also offer cremation packages, where a price is offered for a complete cremation service. In comparing costs and services between funeral homes, it is important to ensure you are comparing like-for-like services, especially when it is a quoted cremation package price. Not all cremation providers quote a fully inclusive price when quoting a cremation package. There are generally 3 main types of cremation options – a direct cremation (a basic minimal cremation), a cremation with a funeral service, or a cremation with a memorial service. The difference is that with a direct cremation there is NO service or ceremony conducted by the funeral provider, although you can conduct your own memorial services afterwards. A direct cremation is the best way to save on costs in Connecticut. A cremation with a funeral service, on the other hand, is generally where the deceased is present and the cremation is conducted after the service. A cremation with a memorial service is where the cremation is conducted first and a memorial service held with the cremation urn present.

Arranging a direct cremation in Connecticut

A direct cremation is the least expensive cremation option. It is sometimes referred to as a simple or basic cremation, or called an immediate cremation. It means that just a basic disposition service is offered. The deceased is collected, prepared for cremation, all the necessary documentation completed, the cremation process goes ahead and then the cremated remains are returned to the family (generally in a temporary urn).

Call DFS Memorials now on (203) 864-6010 to arrange a direct cremation for just $2,000.

There are over 200 funeral homes in Connecticut, so hopefully this article has given you a better idea of what to expect in the way of cremation costs before making a decision on which funeral home is right for you.

* Prices obtained from online funeral survey 2018 – Parting

Affordable direct cremation in Alexandria, LA – $994

Posted on March 15, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

Do you need a low-cost funeral alternative? Funerals can be expensive, and more families are finding themselves unable to meet the high costs associated with traditional funeral services.

At DFS Memorials, we can help you save $$$ on the cost of a funeral or cremation.

We offer a simple and affordable direct cremation service package for just $994. This is the best price direct cremation in Central Louisiana.

What is the average cost of a funeral in Alexandria?

According to online funeral price comparison resources, a traditional funeral service in Alexandria costs $6,228.* This price does not include any cemetery fees. DFS Memorials in Alexandria offer a funeral burial package for $2,800 (including a 20-gauge steel casket).

How much does a cremation service cost?

Families are turning to cremation services as cremation offers a more affordable and flexible alternative to a traditional burial service. No cemetery plot, burial vault, casket or embalming is required for a cremation service. Eliminating these can save thousands of dollars. Also, cremation can offer more flexibility for the family in making funeral arrangements. A funeral service does not have to be held immediately, and can be arranged after a cremation has been conducted.

Compare funeral & cremation average costs

Credit: Parting 2019 – Average funeral & Cremation prices

Direct cremation is proving the preferred choice for families seeking simplicity and affordability. Direct cremation is when the funeral home offer cremation only, with no ceremony or services at the funeral home.

After a direct cremation, the family can make their own arrangements to conduct a memorial service, when they feel it best works for them, and in a place of their choosing. This, again, helps to save money on funeral expenses.

Cremation services will range in price, but the average cost for a cremation service is in the region of $2,000 – $3,000. A direct cremation service can be arranged in Alexandria for as little as $994.

What do you need to understand when arranging a cremation?

Cremation is a very final disposition of human remains. For this reason, there is legislation governing how a cremation must be conducted. Before a cremation can proceed, the legal next of kin must all sign a Cremation Authorization Form. The coroner will issue a permit to cremate once all legal requirements are met.

What if the deceased is at the coroner’s office?

If your loved one is held at the morgue, you will still need the services of a licensed funeral professional. As he or she will need to liaise with the coroner to obtain permits, the body can generally be released into the care of the funeral director at the same time that the Parish permits are issued.

If you have further questions about a cremation, or need immediate assistance, please call Randy on (318) 431-3929. He has 35 years’ experience in the funeral profession and is ready to serve your family at your time of need.

Finding an affordable direct cremation service in Metairie, LA

Posted on August 6, 2018 by Cremation Advisor

Cremation is now offering families a simple and affordable alternative to the costs associated with a traditional funeral. This short guide should help you understand what options you have for a cremation service, how choosing cremation can save you on funeral costs, and answer some other questions about cremation.

If you have the immediate need of a low-cost cremation service, call your local DFS Memorials provider on (504) 215-8264. Direct cremation service packages start at $1,550.

Why choose a cremation service?

The key reason more families are choosing a cremation service is cost. A cremation service costs significantly less than a traditional burial. There is no requirement for embalming, and a casket, burial vault and cemetery plot are not needed. All of which reduce your overall cost for a funeral by at least half, if not two-thirds.

In addition to this, a cremation service offers greater flexibility as a service does not have to be held immediately, or remains can be transported back to a different state if necessary.

Can you still have a funeral service if you choose cremation?

Questions about cremation Yes, a cremation funeral is just the same as a traditional funeral, only the deceased is cremated following the service instead of interred.

If you opt to have a cremation conducted immediately, you can have a service after the cremation with the cremation urn present. This is known as a Cremation Memorial.

If you opt for a direct cremation, you can choose to arrange your own memorial service, after the cremated remains are returned to the family. A direct cremation service is a cremation without a ceremony. The funeral services provider simply conducts everything to take care of the cremation disposition, and then returns your loved one’s ashes directly to you.

What does a cremation cost?

This is the ‘million-dollar’ question, and what many people are using the Internet to establish right now. The first thing to say is that the cost for a cremation will vary. It will vary by cremation provider, by what type of cremation service option you select, and prices even vary by area.

To give you an idea of cremation costs, I can tell you that the average cost for a cremation memorial in Metairie is $5,546*, and the average cost for a direct cremation is $2,728*.

Cremation costs in Metairie, LA The chart below gives some examples of direct cremation costs from a selection of funeral homes in Metairie.

Funeral Home or Cremation Services Provider	Direct cremation Price
DFS Memorials LLC	$1,550
Tharp-Sontheimer Funeral Home	$2,595
Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home	$2,745
Garden of Memories Funeral Home & Crematory	$2,845

What legally do you need to know about cremation?

For a cremation to be legally conducted it must be authorized by the immediate next of kin. The funeral director will ask the next of kin to sign a Cremation Authorization Form.

There is generally a 24-72 hour wait period after the death occurred before the cremation can go Cremation Laws ahead, although this is mandated differently in different states. The funeral director will need to obtain permission to cremate from the Jefferson Parish coroner, and obtain a cremation permit.

Once the wait period has expired, the cremation authorization form is correctly signed and notarized by the next of kin, and the coroner has issued the cremation permit, the cremation can be scheduled.

It will usually take 7-10 days to arrange a cremation, and the deceased will be sheltered in the funeral home in refrigerated storage. If there are delays completing all the legal paperwork, it can take a little longer. If the immediate next of kin are siblings (and there is more than one sibling), then all siblings need to sign the authorization form for a cremation to proceed. This tends to be one of the main reasons that a cremation gets delayed, as there is disagreement between siblings on authorizing the cremation.

What can you do with the cremated remains?

There is a whole realm of options for how to memorialize with cremated remains. You can, of course, inter the remains in a cemetery plot or cremation niche…. similar to a burial interment. Other options include: keeping the cremation urn at home, performing an ash-scattering or having a cremation tribute made from some of the remains.

A benefit of cremation, is that you do not need to make an immediate decision about the final disposition. Sometimes it can be easier to hold onto the urn for a while whilst you have time to reflect and consider what is the most befitting disposition.

Is there any financial help for families who cannot afford a funeral?

Sadly, there is little financial support for those families who find themselves in the unfortunate position of losing a loved one and having no funds for a funeral. What may be available varies so much by area. You would need to consult with Jefferson Parish Social Services department. Therefore, a direct cremation can offer a simple and affordable solution to handling the unexpected disposition of a family member if finances are an issue.

A dignified direct cremation can be conducted for $1,550 and then the family can arrange to hold their own memorial service.

There is the $255 lump-sum Social Services death benefit payment, if the deceased qualified, which can help towards the cremation cost.

For more information on cremation and what to do with cremated remains, check out the sections in our blog.

*Prices from Parting Funeral Survey 2018

$795 Simple cremation in Frisco, TX

Posted on May 8, 2018 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 $795.

Our attitudes to death and funerals are changing and many families are finding that cremation offers a more simple and affordable option. More families are deciding they just want a simple, “no fuss” option, one that can be delivered at a low cost.

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 $795, and are dealing with a family-owned funeral business, why should you pay more than this?

What is included in the $795 Simple Cremation Package?

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 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 Texas are $21 for the 1^st certificate and $4 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 Frisco, TX

As cremation is becoming a popular choice for residents of Frisco, there are several cremation service providers serving Collin 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 Frisco is $6,110*, and the average cost of a direct cremation is $3,260* 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 Frisco is $9,592.*

How can you save money when arranging a cremation service?

A direct cremation is the most economical means of disposition there is. In Frisco, a direct cremation can be conducted for $795 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 Frisco, TX. 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 48-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 off-set 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 Collin County Assistance Programs.

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

How do I obtain a copy of a death certificate?

You can obtain copies of a death certificate from the Vital Records office at: Collin County, 2300 Bloomdale Road 2104 McKinney, TX 75071 Phone: (972) 548-4185

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.

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.

700 Wilmeth Road McKinney TX 75069 Phone: (972)-548-3775

Please contact your local DFS Memorials cremation services provider on (972) 332-0414 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 2018