Tag Archives: funeral cost

Affordable direct cremation service in Long Island, NY

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Simple cremation service Long Island NYDirect cremation offers families 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 the immediate need of a low-cost cremation service, call your local DFS Memorials provider on (516) 406-8141.  Direct cremation service packages start at $895.

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?

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.

Questions about cremationWhat does a cremation cost?

This is not a simple question to answer.  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. 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 and 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 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 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 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 or crematory 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.  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?

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 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 $1,135 (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 qualified, which can help towards the cremation cost.

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

Selecting Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services in York, PA

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Direct Cremation in York, PAThe current cremation trend is changing the way we think about arranging a funeral.

Although the cremation rate in Pennsylvania has typically been below the national rate, the demand now for low cost funeral alternatives is changing the way many families today approach death care, and more folks are starting to consider cremation as a simple and affordable option instead of a traditional burial.

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.

cremation servicesHow much does a funeral cost in York?

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, however the average cost of a funeral in York is $7,023*.

How much does a cremation cost in York?

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 York 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 $3,934*,however, it is possible to find much lower-priced cremation services in York.

How much is a direct cremation in York, PA?

A basic cremation can be conducted in York for as little as $1,195 complete.  This is what is known as a “direct cremation”.  No services are performed, the deceased is collected, transported to the funeral facility, prepared for cremation and the cremation is conducted.  The cremated remains are returned to the family in a temporary plastic urn.  If desired the family can arrange a brief final goodbye viewing at the funeral home.

Call DFS Memorials now on (717) 282-1833 to arrange a low cost cremation for $1,195

Cremation Service York, PAWhat 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 York, PA

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

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

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

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Pennsylvania

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 Pennsylvania 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.

Preplanning an affordable cremation service

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

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

It is sadly a reality that more folks are passing without leaving the means to pay for their funeral.  If you are faced with this situation, you need to explore what help may be available to you.  Social Security pay out a $255 lump sum death benefit (if you qualify) and your funeral director can assist you with this.

The support for indigent burials differs so much by state and county. Some counties do offer some financial assistance to low-income families, whereas in other counties only county indigent dispositions are conducted.  To find out what may be available you should contact York County Human Services Department at: 100 W Market Street Ste 401 York, PA 17401 Phone: (717) 771-9347

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

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

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

Address of county coroner’s office: York County Medical Examiner 118 Pleasant Acres Road York PA 17402 (717) 840-7617

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 York, PA.  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 2018

$755 Simple cremation in Frisco, TX

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Direct Cremation in FriscoIf 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 $755.

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 $755, and are dealing with a family-owned funeral business, why should you pay more than this?

What is included in the $755 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 1st 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.

Cremation planningComparing 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 $755 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
Cremation costs in fresco

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

 

 

$995 Simple cremation in Jersey City, NJ

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affordable cremation in jersey city njIf 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 $995.

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 $995, and are dealing with a family-owned funeral business, why should you pay more than this?

What is included in the $995 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
  • Copy of the death certificate

 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 New Jersey are $25 for the 1st certificate and $2 for each additional copy at present.

Cremation Jersey City NJCan 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 Jersey City, NJ

As cremation is becoming a popular choice for residents of Jersey City, there are several cremation service providers serving Hudson 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 Jersey City is $3,347*, and the average cost of a direct cremation is $1,775.*  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 Jersey City is $6,600.*

low cost cremation jersey city njHow can you save money when arranging a cremation service?

A direct cremation is the most economical means of disposition there is.  In Jersey City, a direct cremation can be conducted for $995 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 Jersey City, NJ.  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 Hudson County Department of Family Services
Division of Welfare
257 Cornelison Ave.
Jersey City, NJ 07302
(201) 420-3000

How do I obtain a copy of a death certificate?

You can obtain copies of a death certificate from the Vital Records office at: New Jersey Health Department, Department of Health P. O. Box 360 Trenton, NJ 08625-0360

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.  The County Coroner’s office is at: 325 Norfolk Street Newark NJ 07103 973-648-7259

Please contact your local DFS Memorials cremation services provider on (201) 293-7900 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

Affordable cremation service in West Palm Beach, FL – Just $696

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Are you concerned about funeral costs? Do you want to know how to arrange a dignified funeral at an affordable cost?

We have put together this guide to help you understand how you can save thousands arranging a funeral.  In fact, you can arrange a simple, basic cremation for just $696!

The average cost of a traditional funeral in West Palm Beach is $7,627*, 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?

More and more folks are choosing cremation.  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 also 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.  For residents and retirees in Florida who are transplants, cremation can be a preferred option for those whose families are from out-of-state.

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.

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.

average cremation cost west palm beach fl

How much does a cremation cost in West Palm Beach?

The cost of a cremation can vary considerably.  This will depend upon the type of cremation service you opt for and the cremation services provider you select.  The average cost of a cremation memorial service is $4,381*, depending upon the length of service held and what kind of casket you purchase or rent.  The average cost of a direct cremation is $1,864*, although a direct cremation package can be conducted for just $596 with DFS Memorials.

Call DFS Memorials NOW to arrange a simple, low cost cremation for $696

(561) 260-5750

Direct cremation services in West Palm Beach, FL

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 West Palm Beach on (561) 260-5750 who offers a complete direct cremation package for just $696.

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 West Palm Beach, FL

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 West Palm Beach, the average cost of a direct cremation is $1,864, although a direct cremation can be arranged for less than this with some cremation providers.  DFS Memorials offer a direct cremation service for $696.

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 $10.00 for the first certificate and $10 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 West Palm Beach?

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 Florida 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.

direct cremation west palm beach flWhat 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 St Lucie County Human Services Department at 437 North 7th Street Ft. Pierce, FL 34950

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 $696.

What is “no-cost cremation”?

Some funeral homes now offer this option in West Palm Beach.  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: 5150 NW Milner Drive, Port St. Lucie, FL 34983  Phone: (772) 873-4932

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.

St Lucie County Medical Examiner & Coroner 2500 South 35th Street Fort Pierce FL 34981772-464-7378

Hopefully this short guide to arranging an affordable cremation service in West Palm Beach 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

Arranging a simple, low cost cremation in Lafayette, LA

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More families today are worried about the high cost of dying.  If that is the case for you, then this short guide can help you to save on funeral costs by arranging a dignified and simple cremation.  You can arrange a simple cremation for just $1,795.

How much does a funeral cost?

The average cost of a traditional funeral service in Lafayette is $7,020* (and this does not include the cemetery charges).  So, the total cost for a funeral service, cemetery plot and burial vault is likely to be in the region of $10,000+.

For many families spending over $10,000 on a funeral is just not possible.

What do I need to consider if choosing a cremation?

You need to consider what kind of cremation service you want, and what type of cremation provider you wish to select.  There are various cremation service options from a simple direct cremation to a full traditional funeral service followed by cremation.

Many funeral service locations operate their own crematory now, meaning that your loved one remain in the care of the funeral home at all times.

How do I select a cremation service provider in Lafayette?

It is always wise to check around before committing to a cremation services provider.  Ask family and friends of their experiences, or do some research online or by phone.  As with any other sector, there is the ‘good, the bad and the ugly’.

What you get included in a cremation services package and what level of service you are given can vary by who you deal with.  Costs for a cremation service can also differ significantly, even for the exact same service.

average cremation costWhat type of cremation service should I opt for?

This is entirely a personal choice.  Direct cremation is becoming more popular as many families want simplicity and affordability these days and a simple, direct cremation offers this.

It can allow families to take care of the immediate disposition, enabling them to prepare their own memorial service at a later date.

How much does a cremation service cost in Lafayette?

This is a question that is often asked, and the only true answer is that it can vary.  It is dictated by what kind of cremation service you select.  As I mentioned direct cremation is the least expensive option, costing $1,795 in Lafayette, although the average cost for a direct cremation is $2,682.

The average cost for a cremation with a memorial is $3,902* in Lafayette.

How much does a direct cremation cost in Lafayette?

A direct cremation can be conducted for $1,795.  Call (337) 252-0608 for more information.

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Lafayette

Before a cremation can go ahead there are certain legal requirements.  Firstly, there is a mandatory wait period after death before the cremation can be performed.  And the legal next of kin must sign a Cremation Authorization Form.

In Louisiana, there is no mandatory wait period after death before the cremation can proceed, however, before a cremation can proceed the Parish coroner 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 cost $9.00 for the first copy and $7.00 for each additional copy.  This is often considered a ‘cash advance’ item and not included in a quoted cremation price.  The funeral director will generally obtain the death certificates on your behalf.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

direct cremation lafayette laYou can inter cremated remains in a cemetery plot or crenation niche, similarly as you would inter a body.  However, cremation does offer more versatility on how and when you can conduct memorialization services.

If you opt for a direct cremation, you do not have to proceed with an immediate funeral service, you can opt to wait until you have the cremated remains returned and then hold a service at a later date.  More families are choosing to conduct their own memorial service after a cremation, as this saves significantly on the overall funeral costs.  It is possible to hold a memorial service at a range of venues instead of a funeral home.

You can also choose to scatter the cremated remains, either in a memorial scattering garden, or a special place to the deceased.  There are also a range of cremation artifact options available today to help you create a memorable item made with some cremation ashes to keep close by if you so wish.

What do I do if I cannot afford a cremation?

Sadly, there is little state or county assistance that helps a family pay for a cremation.  The county may be obligated to pay for indigent cremations, but in these cases, they are often unclaimed remains where there are no family.  You may wish to contact Louisiana Department of Social Services to inquire as to what assistance may be available, but in reality, it may require family to raise the basic funds to conduct a direct cremation.  Call (888) 524-3578 to speak with DCFS Customer Service.

What if the deceased is at the Medical Examiners?

If the death was unnatural, suspicious or the result of a crime, the deceased may be taken to the Coroners.  The coroner will need to determine the cause of death to issue the death certificate.  Once this occurs the body can be released to a licensed funeral director.  You will need to employ the services of a licensed funeral director immediately as he/she can liaise with the coroner to arrange for the release of the deceased as soon as possible.

If you have any further questions about arranging a funeral or cremation in Lafayette, please call your local DFS Memorials provider on (337) 252-4174.

Funeral Homes Failure to Disclose Funeral Costs

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The funeral industry operates like no other industry I know.  In today’s consumer marketplace cost is a principle. Maybe not cost alone but certainly a combination of cost and value.  It is highly unlikely that you would make a consumer purchase without asking the question “how much”?

funeral-pricesYet the funeral industry expects us to make funeral arrangements (once the fourth biggest expenditure you will make in a lifetime) without being concerned about what our bottom line is going to be.  Not only can many funeral locations be evasive about disclosing prices to us if we inquire (although legally they are bound to do so), they can bombard us with so many irrelevant questions about our requirements that it can be overwhelming at a distressing time!

The latest Funeral Consumers Alliance (FCA) survey in conjunction with the Consumer Federation of America (CFA) has highlighted yet again just how non-compliant the industry is with the Federal Trade Commission’s ‘funeral rule’ which requires them to disclose prices.

2015 Funeral Costs Survey

The FCA and CFA recently surveyed 150 funeral homes in 10 metro areas to discover that despite legislation put in place to protect consumers, only 1 in 4 funeral homes are readily disclosing funeral costs on their websites.  According to the FCA and CFA survey another 29% provided prices upon an email request and a further 29% divulged their prices after receiving an email and then a phone call.  16% of funeral homes surveyed did not provide any pricing information, or provided it only if a customer visited the funeral home.

The survey also highlighted the variation between itemized prices for funeral services and how dramatically these can vary, sometimes by as much as 3 times as much for the exact same service.

At DFS Memorials we have undertaken numerous funeral price comparison surveys to enable us to locate the best value direct cremation or direct burial.  We have encountered the same resistance by many funeral locations to disclose cremation prices.

An industry resisting change….and consumer demand!

The funeral industry has been criticized for its slowness and unwillingness to embrace change.  The ‘dinosaur’ that could be prone to extinction as it continues to ignore consumer demand.  This survey exemplifies how despite the more progressive funeral companies who have adapted to the changes affecting the industry, there are still funeral businesses locked in a times-past.

save-on-cremation-costsCremation is probably the biggest change to face this industry in the last century, and could be likened to a snowball in its growth since 2008.  Families are voting with their feet that they simply cannot or will not pay thousands of dollars to lay a loved one to rest anymore.

Direct cremation is revolutionizing a once very stoic industry, and direct cremation scares many funeral business to death!!  A direct cremation requires the most minimal of services from a funeral director and is his least expensive service option.  Understandably many long-standing funeral homes with large overheads and fleets of vehicles are facing very troubling times.

To the funeral consumer a direct cremation means a funeral bill of typically less than $1,000 (in most metro areas).  To the funeral home owner this means a steep drop in profit-margin.

So….do your homework and compare prices.  As this recent survey uncovered, this is a mine-field to tread through.  If you are researching ahead of time this gives you an advantage, but coming new to making arrangements at a time of need can be very distressing and completely overwhelming.  As a guide DFS Memorials is here to help you.  We have an extensive network of low cost cremation providers across the United States and guarantee to offer you disclosure of direct cremation costs.  We hope to provide some light and guidance through your dark path, and make laying a loved one to rest a task that may be painful, but not end up costing you more than you can afford.

Selecting Affordable Funeral Services in Belleville, IL

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The cremation trend is changing the way we think about arranging a funeral.  Although the cremation rate in Illinois has typically been below the national rate, the demand for low cost funeral alternatives is changing the way many families today approach death care.

How funeral care is changing and economic reasons for choosing cremation

low-cost-cremation-belleville-ilDeciding 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.

So how much does a cremation cost in Belleville?

Firstly it is important to state that cremation prices in Belleville 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 Cremation Association of North America (CANA) quote the average cost of a cremation at $3,200, however, it is possible to find much lower-priced cremation services in Belleville.

A basic cremation can be conducted in Belleville for as little as $1,195 complete*.  This is what is known as a “direct cremation”.  No services are performed, the deceased is collected, transported to the funeral facility, prepared for cremation and the cremation is conducted.  The cremated remains are returned to the family in a temporary plastic urn.  If desired the family can arrange a brief final goodbye viewing at the funeral home.

Call DFS Memorials now on (618) 887-0006 to arrange a low cost cremation for $1,195

How much does a burial funeral service cost in Belleville?

Again, the cost for a burial service can vary, depending upon what type of services you require and the cost of funeral merchandise such as the casket and burial vault.  Cemetery costs vary and overhead charged by a funeral home differs.  The National Funeral Directors Association report that the average funeral costs just under $8,000, but this does not include any cemetery fees.

What type of cremation services are available?

funeral-services-belleville-ilYou 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 Belleville, IL

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

cremation-costs-belleville-ilHow 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 Belleville

As mentioned above, there are laws in place regarding the cremation of human remains.  A cremation cannot be performed until a cremation permit is issued by the medical examiner’s office.  The legal next of kin must sign a Cremation Authorization Form.  It is not necessary to embalm a body for cremation and refrigerated storage is used to preserve the body until the cremation is performed.  The funeral home will generally store the body for up to 5 days in refrigerated storage at no extra charge.  If the cremation does not go ahead within 5 days, an additional fee for storage may be incurred.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

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 pay out a $255 lump sum death benefit (if you qualify) and your funeral director can assist you with this.

The support for indigent burials differs so much by state and county.  To find out what may be available you should contact St. Clair County Human Services Departments.

*death certificates are not included

Why is Cremation becoming American’s Preferred Funeral Option?

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direct-cremationThe National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) wound up its 3 day annual convention in Nashville yesterday where funeral professionals from around the nation, and even from around the globe, had gathered to discuss death. Or should I say death and business?

The NFDA opened the convention with a report on Cremation and Burial containing Research, Statistics and Projections. The most notable finding of this report was that cremation would surpass burial as the nation’s disposition choice by next year (2015). This marks quite a significant change in the once-traditional funeral industry of the U.S.

So why is cremation so popular now?

The report goes on to outline several reasons why we are converting to cremation – “cost, decreased household discretionary income, environmental concerns, fewer religious prohibitions of the practice, a growing preference for simpler, and less ritualized funeral ceremonies”. In a nutshell, we are choosing cremation because it costs less, we have less money and cannot afford expensive funerals anymore, and basically we have less concern about tradition, religion or ritual.

The cost of a cremation is, I believe, the primary reason why we Americans are shifting in our droves to choose this as a death care alternative. Add to this that we have become a nation who seeks out ease of task, convenience and instant gratification – and cremation helps us out – it is so easy to arrange (for a basic, direct cremation you don’t even need to go into a funeral home!), it can be arranged within a day or two, and you don’t need to make a lot of decisions (like what casket do you want? What color lining? What kind of burial vault, plot etc etc).

How many cremations are direct cremations?

What this report from the NFDA does NOT do (and that’s no surprise) is drill down to what percentage of total cremations are direct cremations. Whilst quoting a reason for why we choose cremation as having a growing preference for simple, no-fuss funeral ceremonies, there is no analysis of how direct cremation (the simplest form of cremation available) is in fact experiencing a significant growth in the U.S. right now.

direct-cremation-serviceDirect cremation is the industry term for a very basic cremation where no pre-funeral services are provided. The deceased is simply collected, cremated and the remains returned to the family. Simple, no-fuss, efficient and …..ECONOMICAL! Oh but of course many in the funeral industry are not very fond of direct cremation as it hurts their bottom line. However, there are a growing number of funeral practitioners who are responding to this need for simple, low cost cremation by offering affordable direct cremation packages. These are the smart funeral directors who recognize where the growth in the industry is, and understand that providing customers with what they WANT, is far more important than trying to sell customers something they really don’t want and can’t afford.

What do you need to know about direct cremation?

As mentioned above, this is the simplest cremation service available to you as a funeral consumer. Many funeral homes will not openly suggest it as a funeral service option but it will be on their General Price List (GPL). The cost charged for a direct cremation WILL vary tremendously! Some funeral homes charge $2,000+ for a basic direct cremation, whilst others will offer the exact same direct cremation for $895.

The important thing is to ensure you compare prices (like-for-like). Cremation prices, even for the exact same cremation services, can differ quite significantly in the same area from different funeral service providers.

A direct cremation does not mean you cannot have a funeral service. Many in the industry try and convince us that direct cremation prevents us from grieving properly, that we need a service with the body present in order to begin the healing process. I say baloney! Most families are perfectly capable of managing their own services and dealing with bereavement in their own way. Yes, some people will prefer to use the services of a funeral director, clergy, or celebrant to deliver a service….but some families do not feel this is necessary. And this is okay.

“Personalization” is another term the industry is fond of today. I agree that the ability to personalize a funeral ritual to the deceased is imperative, but I do not agree that only funeral directors understand how to do this. US Funerals Online has published numerous articles to help families with ideas on how to memorialize their loved one. We understand that whilst 58% of families (NFDA) may associate a cremation with a memorial service, more families today feel that they would prefer to deliver the memorial service themselves.

save_money_cremationHow much does a cremation cost? And what is included in this?

As cremation becomes more popular – more Americans are asking questions about cremation. The 2 most prevalent questions are “how much is a cremation going to cost” and “what is included in this cremation cost?”   As I have already mentioned, not all cremations are created equal, and the price for a cremation service can differ depending on the service provider and the area.

As a rough guide – more often than not – corporate means more expensive. Cremations offered by Dignity Memorial funeral locations (owned by SCI) generally come in around the $2,200 – $3,000 bracket. Independent funeral homes can still be expensive, if they have elaborate premises and livery, chances are they will charge a higher price for their cremation services, although this is not always the case.

There is a new breed of funeral company on the block, one that caters primarily to the demand for low cost cremation. These are the guys to seek out if you want to find an inexpensive cremation package. DFS Memorials works with a network of these providers, local family-owned funeral businesses that offer a simple, fixed price, inclusive direct cremation package. All providers in the DFS Memorials network offer a direct cremation for between $600 and $1,395 (depending on the location). To find out the cost of a direct cremation near you, click on your state and select your nearest town or city.

According to the NFDA projections by 2020 at least 39 states will be cremating more bodies than they bury, with an expectation that the cremation rate will hit 70% by 2030. This is a staggering change for a once-traditional funeral industry to embrace! If you are a consumer considering cremation, either right now as a death is imminent or has occurred, or you are researching cremation to preplan, you will find many resources here to assist you. Click on your state on the right-hand navigation to find a low cost cremation provider near you, or use the Category sections to check out more articles about cremation.

Funeral costs and cremation costs in West Virginia

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The economy and the Internet are changing the way we purchase many goods and services….even funerals! Today more families either cannot afford full funeral services, or simply do not want to spend unnecessarily on funeral costs. Some of these families find themselves quoted funeral prices that they cannot afford, and they turn to the internet to find more affordable funeral alternatives. We have put together this brief guide to funeral costs in West Virginia to assist those families who wish to understand what options are available to them.

How much does a funeral cost in West Virginia?

Understanding funeral costs is not always easy. The cost of a funeral can vary so much depending upon the funeral services provider you choose and what kind of funeral services you select. It is important to understand that the price for a funeral can be very different – even for the exact same services – but from different funeral homes. A full service traditional funeral home can often have higher prices as they have more overhead to maintain.

A traditional funeral package (including viewing, ceremony, embalming, funeral coach, flower vehicle, 20 gauge casket and burial liner) can be purchased for a complete price of $4,595. This does not include the cemetery plot. This is a very competitive price when you consider that the NFDA quotes the ‘average cost of a funeral’ at $7,045 (without any cemetery costs).

What are cremation costs in West Virginia?

A cremation can range in cost, depending upon what type of cremation service and which cremation services provider you choose. It is possible to conduct a basic cremation (a cremation without any services) for just $1,125. However, you will find that the average cost of a direct cremation in West Virginia is nearer to $2,400.

cremation-service-charleston-wvA direct cremation is the cheapest means to conduct a funeral disposition. It is sometimes called an immediate cremation. The deceased is collected from the place of death, transported into the care of the funeral home, prepared for cremation, the necessary paperwork completed and then the cremation process performed. A basic cremation container is used and the cremated remains are returned to the family in a temporary urn (unless a cremation urn is chosen).

Many families are choosing direct cremation today and then conducting their own memorial service. This enables families to arrange a funeral at an affordable cost. It also means a family can truly personalize a memorial service for their dearly departed.

If you are concerned about managing the cost of a funeral service or cremation service, speak with the DFS Memorials provider for the tri-state area. He is committed to helping you arrange the service you desire at a cost you can afford.

What help is available in West Virginia for a family that cannot afford a funeral?

There is DHHR assistance available for those that qualify and $1,250 is the amount contributed by DHHR. This amount will generally cover a basic cremation. The DFS Memorials provider offers a DHHR Upgrade burial package for $2,450. This includes a visitation and funeral ceremony, embalming, funeral coach and flower vehicle, ‘kloth’ doeskin casket. A concrete or steel graveliner is included but this may be an imperfect model.

Costs for overweight or oversize cremations in West Virginia

It is possible to cremation a person weighing over 300 pounds, however there are some things to consider. You need to select a cremation services provider who has a retort with a wide enough door to accommodate a XL cremation container. Depending how large the deceased was may impact upon whether there is an additional incremental fee on top of the standard cremation fee.

Best prices on cremation services throughout Barbour, Berkeley, Boone, Braxton, Brooke, Cabell, Calhoun, Clay, Doddridge, Fayette, Gilmer, Grant, Greenbrier, Hampshire, Hancock, Hardy, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson, Kanawha, Lewis, Lincoln, Logan, Marion, Marshall, Mason, McDowell, Mercer, Mineral, Mingo, Monongalia, Monroe, Morgan, Nicholas, Ohio, Pendleton, Pleasants, Pocahontas, Preston, Putnam, Raleigh, Randolph, Ritchie, Roane, Summers, Taylor, Tucker, Tyler, Upshur, Wayne, Webster, Wetzel, Wirt, Wood, & Wyoming Counties.