$850 Simple cremation in Lexington, KY

Posted on May 15, 2020 by Cremation Advisor

Whether planning ahead, or in need of immediate cremation services, DFS Memorials in Lexington can help you arrange affordable cremation services.

We have outlined some of the key information you need to know when making arrangements to cremate, including the legal requirement according to Kentucky state laws on cremation and what cremation costs to expect.

How much does a cremation cost in Lexington?

This is a question most families ask first. It is generally common knowledge now that cremation is significantly cheaper than a traditional burial. Many families considering cremation want to find out about costs to see how much they can save on the overall cost of a funeral.

A basic cremation with no services can be arranged in Lexington for $850 complete. A cremation with a memorial service can be arranged for around $2,000 – $3,000. With the average funeral costing $7.360 (NFDA) without cemetery expenses – this makes cremation a much more affordable alternative.

Another reason many families are now choosing cremation is that it offers greater flexibility. A memorial service does not have to go ahead immediately, but can be arranged at a later date that suits the family. This can also allow the family time to make arrangements without feeling emotionally fraught. With transplants living in Lexington, cremation is a simple, cost-effective, and efficient way to handle the disposition and have remains shipped.

Who can authorize a cremation according to Kentucky statures?

A cremation is such a permanent means of disposing of a body and destroys all DNA, that cremation can ONLY go ahead when certain legal requirements are met. The legal next of kin must sign a ‘Cremation Authorization Form’. (This can be self- signed by an individual when preplanning a cremation) If the authorized person has signed the cremation authorization form then a cremation permit can be issued by Fayette County Coroner. There is a mandatory waiting time for cremation in most states of 24-48 hours.

What care and preparation of the deceased needs to occur before cremation?

funeral-costs The deceased does NOT need to be embalmed if you are opting for cremation, although it may be recommended if a viewing is required, or if the cremation cannot proceed in a timely fashion. If the deceased had a pacemaker this must be removed before the cremation.

A basic cremation container is used to cremate the deceased in so you do not need a casket. A casket can sometimes be rented if you wish to have a funeral service or viewing before the cremation.

To arrange a low-cost cremation in Lexington – Call now on (859) 568-3131

We are happy to answer any questions you have. We are here to serve your family – understanding your need for dignified and affordable services!

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.

Low cost cremation services in Charlotte, NC

Posted on April 13, 2018 by Cremation Advisor

If you are concerned about the cost of a funeral and are looking for a more affordable funeral alternative, you may wish to consider cremation services. Cremation has now overtaken burial as the preferred disposition choice for Americans. Although there are several reasons cited by the Cremation Association of North American (CANA) as to why we are shifting to cremation, the primary reason is cost. A cremation costs at least 40% less than a traditional burial funeral.

How much does a cremation cost in Charlotte?

The cost of a cremation can vary significantly in Charlotte. This can depend on whom you select to provide your cremation services and what kind of cremation services you opt for. The average cost of a cremation is around $3,000, which makes cremation a less costly option than a traditional burial.

It is possible to arrange a cremation in Charlotte for $1,330. This is what is known as a direct cremation and is the cheapest way to conduct a cremation service.

What kind of cremation packages are available?

Most cremation service providers in Charlotte offer a range of cremation packages. These will range from a full service cremation to a basic direct cremation. All funeral homes will have a General Price List (GPL) which must list all their service charges, although some funeral homes will also offer packaged services. It is recommended that you carefully check exactly what is offered in a packaged cremation service in Charlotte, and how this compares to purchasing the cremation services required from the GPL.

direct-cremation A full service cremation is generally similar to a traditional funeral only the deceased is cremated after the service rather than transferred to the cemetery for burial. This is a more expensive cremation option as a casket may still be required for the ceremony (although some funeral service providers do offer rental caskets).

A cremation memorial is where the cremation is carried out and a memorial service held afterwards with, or without, the cremated remains present. It can take the form of an ash-scattering service, a life celebration event or a memorial tribute. It does not have to be at a funeral home or chapel, and it can be organized and led by family. This means you can save on the cost of the funeral service and make it a very personal affair. Visit our section on Memorialization to learn more about creating your own memorial tributes.

What is a direct cremation?

Direct cremation is the least expensive cremation option and the most basic service option. It is sometimes referred to as a ‘simple cremation’. The deceased is cremated without any services or ceremony, and the cremated remains are returned to the family in a temporary urn. A ceramic, wood or steel urn can be selected for an additional cost.

Do I need a casket for a cremation?

No, a casket is not required by law for cremation. All that is required is a cremation container and this is usually a reinforced cardboard container. If you wish to hold a viewing or ceremony before the cremation, you can choose to use a rental casket or some funeral homes offer what they call “slumber beds”. This is where the deceased is laid in repose on a bed in a viewing room.

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 do 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) and then ground into the fine ‘dust’ that is returned as cremation ashes.

Not all funeral homes have their own crematory and sub their cremations to a local crematory. If you do have concerns about the continuity of care offered throughout the cremation process, you may wish to choose a funeral home that has their own crematory, so your loved one’s remains never leave their care!

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 prefer to have 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.

Is it possible to preplan a low cost cremation?

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?

cremation-plan-charlotte 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 North Carolina there is a mandatory 24 hour wait period that must occur after death before the cremation can proceed.

What do I do if I cannot even afford a cremation?

There is very little ‘free’ money to help families with funeral costs. Some counties do offer some financial assistance to those families that qualify. In some counties this can be an amount up to $1,500. You would need to contact Mecklenburg County Human Services, or whichever county you are in, to find out more.

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.

What is the service area around Charlotte?

The $1,330 direct cremation package is available throughout all of Greater Charlotte and surrounding counties but there is an additional mileage fee that may apply to more outlying areas.

If you have further questions about cremation, feel free to call us on (704) 233-7037.

Affordable cremation service in Newark, NJ – Just $995

Posted on August 28, 2017 by Cremation Advisor

Looking for help to arrange a low-cost cremation? We have put together this guide to help you understand how you can save thousands arranging a funeral. In fact, you can arrange a simple, basic cremation for just $995!

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Newark is $6,923*, 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 given back to the family. There are some variances around these 3 main options, such as a private viewing before cremation, an observed cremation, or a graveside interment of a cremation urn.

How much does a cremation cost in Newark?

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 $3,562*, depending upon the length of service held and what kind of casket you purchase or rent. The average cost of a direct cremation is $2,073*.

A direct cremation package can be conducted for just $995 with DFS Memorials.

Direct cremation services in Newark, NJ

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 Newark on (973) 221-3351 who offers a complete direct cremation package for just $995.

How do I choose a cremation services provider?

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

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

Comparing cremation costs in Newark, NJ

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

According to funeral price research surveys in Newark, the average cost of a direct cremation is $2,073, although a direct cremation can be arranged for less than this with some cremation providers. DFS Memorials offer a direct cremation service for $995.

When comparing costs and services check what IS included, especially with a budget direct cremation package. Is a copy of the death certificate included? Is the cremation permit an additional cash advance item or included? What about if an out-of-hours collection is required? Is there an additional daily refrigeration charge if the cremation does not proceed after 48-hours? Death certificates cost $25.00 for the first certificate and $2 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 Newark?

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 New Jersey 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.

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

Can I preplan a cremation?

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

What can we do with the cremated remains?

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

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

Sadly there is little financial aid that supports those families that find themselves struggling with funeral costs. Most counties do have a budget for indigent funerals but this is generally for those individuals who truly are indigent. Some counties do have limited funds to help low-income families with cremation costs but this can vary county by county. You would need to make inquiries with Essex County Dept of Citizen Services, Division of Welfare, 18 Rector Street – 9th Floor, Newark, NJ 07102
Phone: (973) 733-3000 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 $995.

What is “no-cost cremation”?

Some funeral homes now offer this option in New Jersey. 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: 465 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Rm 130, Hall of Records, Newark, NJ 07102

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.

Essex County Coroner, 325 Norfolk Street Newark NJ 07103, (973) 648-7259

Hopefully this short guide to arranging an affordable cremation service in Newark 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 2017 [Parting]

Simple and affordable cremation services in Scranton, PA

Posted on August 23, 2017 by Cremation Advisor

Funerals need not be as expensive as many of us have been led to believe. The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) surveyed the average cost of a funeral at $7,181 in 2014, and this is without any cemetery fees included. Adding in cemetery plot fees brings the average cost to $8,508.

For many families today spending close to $9,000 on funeral expenses is not always affordable. Therefore, if you need to arrange a more affordable cremation service in Scranton, 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 Scranton?

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 $7,181, it is possible to arrange a funeral for considerably less than this.

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Scranton is $6,306* with the lowest price coming in at $5,510.

How much does it cost to be cremated in Scranton?

Cremation service prices in Scranton range from $1,295 to $3,316*, again depending on the type of cremation service chosen. A full-service cremation costs more than a simple direct cremation. A simple, direct cremation package price of $1,295 is offered by DFS Memorials.

We have included in a direct cremation cost comparison below to give you an idea of comparable costs from several cremation service providers in Scranton.

How do I select a funeral services provider?

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 Scranton, 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 a reputable, licensed and independently-owned funeral home.

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

Cremation costs in Scranton PA 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 a cremation. However, a dignified burial can be achieved at a very affordable cost. DFS Memorials traditional burial packages start at $3,995.

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.

Comparing cremation prices in Scranton

We have compiled some pricing information for basic direct cremation services from a select number of affordable cremation service providers in the area. This hopefully can give you some idea of how direct cremation costs compare.

How much to be cremated in scranton Pennsylvania

Disclaimer: This cremation cost information was obtained from providers in August 2017. Prices are posted to help families make informed decisions. However, periodically providers change their prices. We make every effort to ensure the prices are accurate, but prices must be verified directly with the listed funeral home.

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.

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?

direct cremation scranton pa 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 are now a range of cremation artifacts that can be created to help us immortalize the memory of a loved one, from bird baths 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 is at the Medical Examiners?

If the deceased is at the Medical Examiner’s office, you need to appoint a funeral director to arrange the release of the body into their care. Only a licensed funeral director can collect a body from the county morgue.

What if the deceased had no life insurance?

More often these days family members are passing and we find out that they had no life insurance or funeral plan. This can mean surviving family are burdened with a funeral bill that they cannot afford to pay. There is very little financial support to assist families in this situation, and it varies significantly by state and county. We would suggest you contact Lackawanna County Assistance Program at:

200 Scranton State Office Building
100 Lackawanna Avenue
Scranton, PA 18503 Phone: (570) 963-4525

There is also a $255 lump-sum social security death benefit payment for those that qualify. Your funeral director will assist you in claiming this.

We hope this short guide has answered some of your questions about how to save on funeral costs and will help you arrange a simple cremation at an affordable price. If you have any further questions about arranging a cremation in Scranton, please call your DFS Memorials provider on (570) 225-9080.

*Prices obtained from online funeral price survey website 2017 [Parting]

$895 – Arrange a simple cremation in Tallahassee, FL

Posted on June 22, 2017 by Cremation Advisor

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 $895.

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 $895, and are dealing with a family-owned funeral business, why should you pay more than this?

What is included in the $895 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 Florida are $10 for the 1^st certificate and $10 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 Tallahassee, FL

As cremation is becoming a popular choice for residents of Tallahassee, there are several cremation service providers serving Leon 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 Tallahassee is $3,975*, and the average cost of a direct cremation is $2,502.* 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 Tallahassee is $7,230.

How can you save money when arranging a cremation service?

A direct cremation is the most economical means of disposition there is. In Tallahassee, a direct cremation can be conducted for $895 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 Tallahassee, FL.

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.

Florida Health and Human Services is mandated by state law to provide proper burial arrangements for residents who are poverty-stricken and whose bodies are unclaimed.

There is very limited public assistance support for funeral costs and this can vary by county. Check out Leon County’s Assistance Programs at:

Leon County Courthouse, 301 S Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL 32301

Phone: (850) 606-5300

How do I obtain a copy of a death certificate?

You can obtain copies of a death certificate from the Vital Records office at: Leon County Vital Records Office, 155 N Cass St 1st Fl, Centerville, TX 75833 Phone: (903) 536-2352

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

As funeral directors are familiar with the process, and the body is released with death certificate & cremation permit, it is generally easy to maintain a low cost to offer a direct cremation service for an individual that has been in the care of the Medical Examiner. The County Coroner’s office is at: Leon County Medical Examiner & Coroner, PO Box 14389, Tallahassee, Florida, 32317 Phone: (850) 942-7473

Please contact your local DFS Memorials cremation services provider on (850) 203-0321 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 2017

Guide to arranging an affordable cremation service in Greenville, SC – $995

Posted on June 18, 2017 by Cremation Advisor

As we experience a huge shift to cremation in the US, more families are seeking to find out just what cremation means in terms of funeral costs. The cremation trend is largely being driven by families demanding more affordable death care alternatives.

For many years families arranged a traditional funeral without much thought to how much it would cost. Today, many folks either do not want to spend thousands of dollars unnecessarily, or they simply cannot afford to spend $7000-$15,000 on a funeral service.

So, let’s take a look at what average costs for a burial or cremation in Greenville are, and how you can find the most affordable cremation service in Greenville, SC.

What is the average cost of a funeral in Greenville?

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 Greenville for you.

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Greenville is $6,877*. This is for a full traditional funeral service, including casket, but not including any cemetery costs.

So how do cremation costs compare in Greenville?

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 Greenville is $3,795*. Although a basic cremation with a short service can be arranged with for less than this.

It is important to be aware that prices can vary quite a bit between different funeral homes or cremation providers. We have conducted a cremation price comparison between providers in Greenville. This means we can help you quickly connect with a local, low-cost cremation services provider to save you conducting extensive price comparison.

Direct cremation services in Greenville, SC

Direct cremation is the industry term for a ‘simple cremation’. Only the cremation service is provided by the funeral home. No ceremony or funeral services are provided by the funeral home. The deceased is collected, cremated and the remains returned to the family in a basic urn.

Direct cremation offers families lower cost funeral services and more control over the time and type of memorial ceremonial services they desire. A memorial service can be held in a place of worship, a community venue or even outdoors. The service can be conducted with, or without, the cremation urn present, and can even take the form of an ash-scattering ceremony or interment in a cremation niche or scattering garden.

A basic direct cremation is available in Greenville for $995, although the average price for a direct cremation is $2,437*. 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 $995.

Direct cremation means a family can manage to conduct dignified funeral services for as little as $995

Call DFS Memorials now on (864) 249-4737 to arrange a low-cost cremation

Are there are additional fees to a low-cost $995 cremation package?

In order for a cremation to be conducted a ‘disposition permit’ must be issued by the county. This is a county charge and costs can vary by county. Death certificates are an additional cost, as these are issued by the county, and are a third-party expense. Death certificates cost $12 for the first certificate and $3 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?

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, or a pre-need cremation plan, 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 South Carolina there is a mandatory 24 hour wait period after death before a cremation can be conducted.

What do I do if I cannot even afford a cremation?

There is very little ‘free’ money to help families with funeral costs. What is available is constantly changing due to budget constraints, and varies by county. Some counties do have a provision to assist needy or low-income families. Contact South Carolina Department of Social Services to find out what Assistance Programs may be available to you locally.

SCDSS, 1535 Confederate Avenue, Columbia, SC 29201 Phone: (803) 898-7601

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 held at the county morgue as the Medical Examiner is involved, you will need the services of a licensed funeral director to arrange for the release of the body.

What is the service area around Greenville?

The $995 direct cremation package is available in Greenville throughout all the 10 upstate counties of South Carolina.

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

Selecting Affordable Cremation Services in Santa Barbara, CA – $845

Posted on June 14, 2017 by Cremation Advisor

This brief guide is aimed at helping families understand how to save money by choosing simple and affordable cremation services. Direct cremation is proving the popular disposition choice for many Californians now, and a direct cremation service can be arranged in Santa Barbara for just $845.

How funeral care is changing and economic reasons for choosing cremation

Deciding whether to bury or cremate is a personal choice. For some families the decision is dictated by the budget they have for a funeral and a cremation service will cost less than a traditional burial funeral.

On average a cremation service is going to save you at least 40% on the cost of a burial, sometimes you can save as much as 60% on the cost of a burial service. More families are choosing cremation as it does offer a 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 Santa Barbara?

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 Santa Barbara is $6,610.

How much does a cremation cost in Santa Barbara?

cremation plan santa barbara 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 Santa Barbara DO vary quite considerably between funeral homes, and depending 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 $3,620, however, it is possible to find much lower-priced cremation services in Santa Barbara.

Neptune Society offer a direct cremation for $1,714* and Smart Cremation offer a direct cremation for $2,200. DFS Memorials offers an at-need direct cremation service for $845.

How much is a direct cremation in Santa Barbara, CA?

The average price for a direct cremation in Santa Barbara is $1,892. A direct cremation is when no funeral ceremony or services are performed by the cremation services provider. 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 (805) 265-9651 to arrange a low cost cremation for $845

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 Santa Barbara, CA

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.

We compared direct cremation prices in Santa Barbara to find the most affordable cremation service provider, so you do not have the arduous task of contacting numerous funeral homes to inquire about costs.

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 Santa Barbara

As mentioned above, there are laws in place regarding the cremation of human remains. A cremation cannot be performed until a cremation permit is issued by the medical examiner’s office. The legal next of kin must sign a Cremation Authorization Form. There is a mandatory wait period of 24 hours after death in California 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, bird baths and paintings. Visit our section on Memorialization to read more about what you can do with cremated remains.

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?

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 Santa Barbara County Human Services Department at:

234 Camino del Remedio, Santa Barbara, CA 93110, USA

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 Santa Barbara county medical examiner/coroner’s office:

66 South San Antonio Road, Santa Barbara, California, 93110

We hope this short guide has helped answer some of your immediate questions, and provided some help to understanding how you can arrange an affordable funeral or cremation service in Santa Barbara, CA. 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 2017

Guide to Direct Cremation Services in Fayetteville – $1,330

Posted on May 9, 2017 by Cremation Advisor

The shift to cremation is sweeping across the nation as families demand more affordable death care alternatives. Cremation is now fast becoming a disposition choice for many families in Fayetteville. For those families who do not want to overspend on a funeral, or simply do not have the funds for a costly funeral, cremation is a low cost alternative.

How much does a cremation cost in Fayetteville?

This is the question that most families want to know. As a nation of price-conscious consumers, we expect to check prices and compare deals. The purchase of funeral services is no different. Traditionally families felt it was inappropriate to make funeral price inquiries, but today this is changing.

A traditional funeral can cost $7,045 (NFDA 2012) and this does NOT include cemetery costs. Many families today cannot afford an amount like $10,000 to pay for a funeral. A cremation will cost at least half this amount, if not less, depending upon the type of cremation services selected and the crematory.

A basic cremation can cost anywhere between $1,300 and $4,000. In order to help families arrange affordable cremation services we have selected a family-owned cremation services provider in Fayetteville who can offer a basic cremation package for just $1,330.

Call now on (910) 212-6383 now to arrange a low cost cremation

Cremation services in Fayetteville

There are different types of cremation services so it is possible to arrange whatever type of funeral service you require – from simple cremation to a full traditional funeral or unique ‘life celebration’ events. A great thing about cremation is that it opens up so many possibilities in memorialization.

Direct cremation services in Fayetteville

Direct cremation is probably the fastest-growing type of cremation service. Many of the DFS Memorials providers report that 80% of the cremations they do are direct cremations. A direct cremation is the industry term for a basic cremation with no services. The deceased is collected, transported to the crematory/funeral home, the legal paperwork completed and the cremation performed. The cremated remains are returned to the family in a temporary urn. Most funeral homes offering a direct cremation package offer an inclusive price, where only cash advance items such as the death certificate and cremation permit fee are additional to the direct cremation package cost. Be sure to check this when consulting with a funeral home.

Arranging a direct cremation helps the family take care of the immediate disposition of the deceased in a dignified and economical way. This simple, ‘no fuss’ approach to death care is becoming more popular, with many families arranging their own memorial service or ash scattering ceremony once they have the cremated remains returned. Why pay thousands of dollars to a funeral director when you can conduct your own personalized service for a fraction of this cost?

Why is cremation so much cheaper than a traditional funeral?

There are a number of significant funeral merchandise items that are not required for cremation. No casket is required for a cremation – a suitable cremation container is all that is required by law. No burial vault or cemetery plot is needed, and in most cases the body is not embalmed. This eliminates thousands of dollars in funeral costs. Many families are now opting for direct cremation (the cheapest cremation) because they can then arrange their own funeral service once they have the cremation ashes back. With the decline in traditionalism and the rise in personalization, more families are opting to arrange something different as a life tribute.

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

cremation-costs-fayetteville-nc This is one of the most frequent questions families ask about cremation. Strict laws do 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) 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?

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?

Ash scattering is also more common these days and there are many options for how you can create a befitting ash scattering ceremony.

Is it possible to preplan a low cost cremation?

Yes. You can preplan an $1,330 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. There is a mandatory 24-hour wait period after death before a cremation can be performed in North Carolina.

What do I do if I cannot even afford a cremation in Fayetteville?

There is very little ‘free’ money to help families with funeral costs. This also varies so much by county, both within North Carolina, and across the USA. For this reason, we recommend that you contact Cumberland County Social Services Department on (910) 323-1540 to find out if you qualify for any assistance.

Simple cremation in Columbus, GA

Posted on April 27, 2017 by Cremation Advisor

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

Cremation questions 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 under one thousand dollars, and are dealing with a family-owned funeral business, why should you pay more than this?

What is included in a Direct Cremation Package?

A direct 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
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 Georgia are $25 for the 1^st certificate and $5 for each additional copy at present.

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

Comparing cremation costs in Columbus, GA

As cremation is becoming a popular choice for residents of Columbus, there are several cremation service providers serving Muscogee 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.

It is important to check that a direct cremation package includes everything.

How can you save money when arranging a cremation service?

A direct cremation is the most economical means of disposition there is. In Columbus a direct cremation can be an 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 Columbus, GA. You can then arrange your own memorial services once you have the cremated remains returned. This significantly cuts down on funeral expenses.

What help is there with cremation costs?

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

How do I obtain a copy of a death certificate?

You can obtain copies of a death certificate from the Vital Records office at: Columbus Health Department, P.O. Box 2299, Columbus, GA 31902 Phone: (706) 321-6130

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