$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!

How to arrange a low cost cremation in Baton Rouge, LA?

Posted on January 8, 2020 by Cremation Advisor

If you are worried about funeral costs a simple cremation is a low-cost funeral alternative. It offers a simple and affordable solution for families seeking to arrange a disposition on a budget.

If you are considering cremation and want to find out more about your options, and how much cremation costs in Baton Rouge, this brief article should help you.

How can I save money by arranging a cremation?

A cremation works out much cheaper than a traditional burial. There is no need for a casket, embalming, or cemetery fees, and this alone can save you thousands of dollars. It is also possible to arrange a basic cremation with a funeral home in Baton Rouge, and then conduct your own memorial services once you have the cremated remains returned. This can be another way to save money and also make the tribute so much more personal.

What is the average cost of a cremation in Baton Rouge?

According to the Cremation Association of North America CANA, the average cost of a cremation is $2,250. This is, of course, a national average cost, and the average cost of cremation also depends, not only upon where you live but also exactly what services are included with any cremation package. It is possible to arrange a direct cremation in Baton Rouge for just $1,395 complete.

Comparing cremation costs in Baton Rouge

Cremation prices do vary by provider, even within Baton Rouge, so it is important to shop around and compare cremation prices between funeral homes today to ensure that you have obtained the best price cremation possible. Telephoning around, or conducting online research on cremation pricing can be time-consuming and quite an overwhelming task. That is why we have conducted our own cremation cost research so you don’t have to! The funeral services provider we work within Baton Rouge offers an exceptional value cremation package.

The DFS Memorials provider offers a direct cremation for $1,395 and a complete traditional funeral for just $3,495, including a casket. Providing affordable funeral options for families in Baton Rouge.

Direct cremation in Baton Rouge

A direct cremation is the lowest cost cremation option. The deceased is cremated without any ceremony and/or services, and the cremated remains returned to the family in a temporary urn. This enables the family to ensure that their loved one’s disposition is handled in a simple, dignified, and timely way, whilst not overspending on funeral costs. The family can gather for a memorial service at a later date if they so choose, or arrange a simple ash scattering ceremony.

Low-cost cremation in Baton Rouge

To arrange a low-cost cremation in Baton Rouge you can contact your local DFS Memorials provider.

DFS Memorials Baton Rouge (225) 224-0966 – Direct cremation $1,395

Is there any help with funeral costs in Baton Rouge?

Unfortunately, more families are finding themselves struggling to meet funeral expenses today. Any financial assistance with cremation costs is managed at the Parish level and differs by state and Parish. You need to consult your local Parish human services or social services to find out if there is any support. There is the $255 Social Security death benefit if you qualify and certain benefits for veterans. Other than that, you can try local charitable organizations, unions, and faith groups who may be able to assist you in raising funds for a funeral.

Serving families in W. Baton Rouge Parish, E. Baton Rouge Parish, Ascension Parish, Iberville Parish, St. James Parish and Livingston Parish and Port Allen, Scotlandville, Westminster, Inniswold, Shenandoah, Park Forest, & South Baton Rouge

A guide to arranging a direct cremation in San Diego, CA

Posted on June 18, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

Want to know how to arrange a dignified funeral at an affordable cost? We have put together this guide to help you understand how you can save thousands arranging a funeral. In fact, you can arrange a simple, basic cremation in San Diego for just $800!

We have teamed with a local affordable cremation provider in San Diego to offer families simple and affordable cremation options. A direct cremation for just $800.

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 San Diego?

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 with a memorial service will cost is $3,216*. The true cost will depend upon the length of service held and what kind of casket you purchase or rent.

Direct cremation services in San Diego, CA

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 San Diego on (619) 268-1962 who offers a complete direct cremation package for just $800.

The average cost for a direct cremation in San Diego is $1,382*.

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. This is why we conducted cremation comparison surveys to select an affordable provider to represent DFS Memorials in San Diego.

Comparing cremation costs in San Diego, CA

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

When comparing costs and services check what IS included, especially with a budget direct cremation package. Is a copy of the death certificate included? Is the cremation permit an additional cash advance item or included?. What about if an out-of-hours collection is required? Is there an additional daily refrigeration charge if the cremation does not proceed after 48-hours? Death certificates cost $21.00 each. You should also note that the county coroner may charge a fee if he is required to sign the death certificate.

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

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 California there is a mandatory wait period after death before the cremation can proceed, 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.

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! Check out this section on Memorialization to learn more.

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 San Diego County Social Services Department 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 a budget provider can be arranged for $700.

San Diego Health & Human Services Agency. Contact: (858) 694-3900

What is “no-cost cremation”?

Some funeral homes now offer this option in California. 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:
HHSA Office of Vital Records
3851 Rosecrans Street. Suite 802
San Diego, CA 92110

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 San Diego, please call your local DFS Memorials provider on (619) 268-1962.

Selecting Affordable Cremation Services in the Bronx, NY: $485 direct cremation

Posted on June 13, 2019 by N. G Pelling

Today’s families are seeking more affordable funeral alternatives. Not many families either can afford, or want to spend, over $10,000 on a funeral service. Cremation offers a much less expensive funeral alternative. In fact, you can now arrange a very simple, no-fuss cremation for just $485 (+crematory fee) in The Bronx.

How funeral care is changing and economic reasons for choosing cremation

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

On average a cremation service is going to save you at least 40% on the cost of a burial, sometimes you can save as much as 60% on the cost of a burial service. More families are choosing cremation as it does offer greater flexibility. The funeral service does not have to go ahead immediately. Instead, a cremation can be performed and the immediate disposition of the body dealt with and then a service held at a later date convenient to the family.

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

How much does a funeral cost in the Bronx?

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 the Bronx is $6,841.

How much does a cremation cost in the Bronx?

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 the Bronx DO vary quite considerably between funeral homes, and depending on what type of cremation service you opt for. Not all funeral homes have their own crematory but will use the services of a local crematory. The average cost of a cremation memorial is $3,915*, however, it is possible to find much lower-priced cremation services in the Bronx.

How much is a direct cremation in the Bronx, NY?

A basic cremation can be conducted in the Bronx for as little as $485. 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.

The crematory fee is a third party cost, as funeral homes in New York are not allowed to own a crematory. The crematory fee is $140 and the NYC cremation permit is $40.00, with 1 death certificate and processing fees, the total cost is $736.50.

Call DFS Memorials now on (718) 285-6565 to arrange a low-cost cremation for $485

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 Bronx, NY

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 the Bronx

cremation plan the bronx nyc 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 New York 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, birdbaths, and paintings.

Preplanning an affordable cremation service

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address of county coroner’s office: Bronx County Medical Examiner & Coroner 1600 Pelham Street Elmont NY 11003

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

*Funeral prices obtained from Parting funeral price comparison survey 2019

Simple and low-cost cremation in Gulfport, MS: $995 direct cremation service

Posted on July 23, 2018 by Cremation Advisor

Cremation is becoming the increasingly popular choice for more Americans. We are demanding more affordable, no-fuss and less traditional funeral services. If you are in need of a simple cremation service in Gulfport, then DFS Memorials can help you arrange a direct cremation service for $995.

What is the average cost for a cremation in Gulfport?

Funeral costs can vary tremendously! In the same city, the cost of a funeral differs depending on the funeral home you choose, even for the exact same service. With other products or services we purchase, we generally shop-around and compare prices. This should be no different for funeral services and products.

However, for a long time it was ‘taboo’ to ask about pricing when arranging a funeral. Today that is changing. The Internet has provided a new tool to price-shop for funeral services. But trying to wade through funeral home websites can be time-consuming and overwhelming, so DFS Memorials did that comparison for you, and selected a reputable and independent funeral services provider who is offering an affordable cremation service.

The average cost of a cremation memorial is $3,016*, but a simple direct cremation can be arranged for $995.

Why arrange a direct cremation?

A direct cremation is the most affordable disposition option available. It is where the funeral home take care of everything to cremate the deceased but no ceremony or services are held at the funeral home. This means your funeral bill can be kept to a minimum. Once the cremated remains are returned to the family, a memorial service can be arranged at a later date, or the ashes can be scattered.

More families are finding that a simple alternative like direct cremation offers a more flexible approach to death care. There is no immediate need to rush and conduct a funeral service. Family and friends, if they wish, can gather together and create a personal memorial tribute as and when they feel ready.

Are there additional costs when arranging a direct cremation?

The direct cremation service package covers the basic services of the funeral director and the cremation. Additional costs may include:

Additional mileage fees (outside of core service area)
County fees – death certificates/cremation permit
Barometric crematory fee (oversize individual)
Residential collection
Selection of cremation urn

What do you need to know about cremation?

Cremation is the incineration of a deceased body at extreme heat in a crematory, also known as a cremation retort. Each human body is cremated individually, and the retort thoroughly cleaned before the next cremation takes place.

The remains from the cremation process still contain bone fragments, so the remains are then transferred to a machine that pulverizes the bones and ashes into what we know as the cremated remains ashes.

This process is regulated by the funeral industry and a crematory operative is trained to manage the process. Embalming is NOT required for cremation. There is a strict ID process that occurs throughout the cremation process that must be cross-checked at every point, so you can be sure the remains you receive back, are those of your loved one. Generally, a rigid cardboard cremation container is used for cremation purposes.

Cremation plan A Cremation Authorization Form must be signed by ALL surviving immediate next of kin for a cremation to go ahead. This means if there are siblings, all siblings must agree on, and sign the authorization form. If not, a funeral director will not proceed with the cremation. The funeral home has to obtain a cremation permit from Harrison county to permit the cremation to proceed. There is generally a mandatory wait period after the death before the cremation can take place. This is 24-48 hours. However, it usually takes at least that time to complete all the required paperwork.

Can I preplan a cremation service?

Yes, preplanning is a good way to ensure your wishes are met and your surviving family are not left with the burden of funeral expenses and decisions. A cremation plan can be arranged in advance and the funds put into trust.

What help is there with funeral expenses?

Unfortunately, there is very little (and limited) financial support for families who are struggling with funeral expenses. Harrison county social services would be the department that can advise you about any assistance locally. There is a $255 Social Security lump-sum death benefit payment, if the deceased qualified, and the funeral home can generally help with claiming this.

A direct cremation can be the most inexpensive means to arrange a disposition if you are struggling with funds.

What if the deceased is at the Medical Examiner’s Office?

Only a licensed funeral director can collect and transport a body from the ME’s office. As the county also provide all the required permits and paperwork to accompany the deceased, this can mean that the process to release your loved one into the funeral home’s care can often be expedited.

How do I find a cremation service provider?

Most funeral homes in Gulfport will offer a cremation service, even if they do not have their own crematory. They will use the services of a crematory to conduct the cremation. The important consideration is to compare what service and pricing you are being offered by service providers. If you do require a simple and affordable direct cremation service, then DFS Memorials can assist you at a cost of $995.

For more information, call Wayne on (228) 206-6607.

*Prices from online funeral price comparison Parting 2018

Arranging a low cost cremation in Boca Raton FL – $696

Posted on May 28, 2018 by Cremation Advisor

Cremation is a popular disposition choice in Florida, and the SE Florida area has one of the lowest cost cremation prices in the U.S. This is partly due to the fact that Florida is one of only 2 states where direct disposers are licensed.

A direct disposer does not have to operate a funeral establishment or an embalming facility to legally run a cremation-only business, and this can significantly cut down on overheads. However, be careful, as sometimes the seemingly cheap cremation price that a direct disposer offers will not include some services that a licensed funeral home includes.

Comparing the cost of cremation in Boca Raton, FL

We all like to price-compare these days and ensure we are getting value for money, and when finances can be tight, it can be just as important to make sure that you are not over-spending on a funeral. Prices for a cremation vary, different cremation service providers charge different prices, and the cost of a cremation service can depend upon what type of service you want.

It is possible to arrange a basic, simple cremation in Boca Raton FL for just under $700 complete. This is a direct cremation, where no service or ceremony is held before the deceased is cremated. Family can, however, choose to hold a memorial service once they have the cremated remains returned. A cremation with a viewing or service starts at around $1,295. A full-service cremation can cost anywhere between $1,595 and $3,500.

The $696 direct cremation offered by the DFS Memorials provider in Boca Raton is offered from an independent full-service funeral home. This means that they do have the full facilities to offer additional services should you decide you require them. However, their direct cremation package price remains extremely well-priced for those wanting a simple dignified cremation from a reputable local funeral home.

What is included in a direct cremation?

A simple 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
One copy of the death certificate

How can you save money when arranging a cremation service?

A direct cremation is the most economical means of disposition there is. In Boca Raton a direct cremation can be conducted for $696 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. 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 in Boca Raton?

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 Palm Beach County Human Services Department.

Cremation now the most popular disposition choice for Americans

Posted on August 18, 2017 by Cremation Advisor

2016 marked the year that more cremations were conducted than burials. Last year 50.2% of dispositions were cremations. This is a huge shift in the funeral industry and a significant change in tradition.

Why are more Americans choosing cremation? There are several reasons cited, but by far the most common reason is COST. Economical conditions for the majority of Americans mean that the days of elaborate and costly traditional burials are over.

Cremation costs A traditional burial would cost anywhere in the region of $10,000 – $20,000 depending upon the cost of the casket and cemetery plot. If the deceased had not made any pre-need funeral plan, and surviving family are left to fork out for the funeral, then spending tens of thousands of dollars is just NOT an option.

CNN reported in 2015 that 76% of Americans were living paycheck to paycheck. And these are the folks that cannot afford the sudden ‘disruption’ to their finances of an unexpected expenditure such as a funeral.

And let’s face the harsh reality which is that there really is NO financing for a funeral. Seriously who is going to lend money based upon having no means to ‘re-possess’ the goods?!!

Affordable cremation So for many Americans cremation has just entered the scene as the ONLY viable affordable alternative to conduct a funeral.

A cremation service will cost you within the region of $3,000 – $4000.

This is a full service funeral but with a cremation conducted after the service.

A cremation memorial where the deceased is first cremated and then a memorial service held with the cremated remains costs less than a full-service cremation.

A cremation memorial is likely to cost in the region of $1,500 – $2,500.

For those families that can only afford the bare minimum, or for those families that do not desire any services whatsoever, then a direct cremation is the solution. A direct cremation is where the funeral home and/or crematory simply handle conducting the cremation of the deceased and returning the remains to the family.

A direct cremation costs anywhere in the region of $425 – $1,595 depending on the city, location and provider. The cost for a direct cremation does vary geographically. For example, Las Vegas NV is probably the cheapest place to purchase a direct cremation and Lafayette LA is one of the most expensive for a direct cremation.

It is always wise to check cremation prices from more than one funeral home or cremation service provider. You will quickly discover that the cost for a cremation service can vary, even for the exact same service.

If cost is king for you and you want to arrange a low-cost direct cremation and keep your funeral costs to a minimum, then DFS Memorials can help you. DFS Memorials is a network of local, independent funeral homes all offering an affordable direct cremation package. We conducted extensive price comparison research to recruit a local cremation provider that represented best value in quality and price for a simple direct cremation.

Use the state links on the right-hand side to find your nearest DFS Memorials provider and discover the affordable cost for a direct cremation in your area.

How to arrange affordable cremation services in Athens, GA

Posted on May 25, 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 Georgia. For those families who do not want to overspend on a funeral, or simply do not have the funds for a costly funeral, cremation is a low-cost alternative.

What is the average cost of a funeral in Athens?

These days we are discerning consumers, very mindful of costs, and people now feel the same way about purchasing funeral services. Why should we not ask how much it costs?

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Athens is $7,076*.

So how do cremation costs compare in Athens?

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 Athens is $3,878*.

Direct cremation services in Athens, GA

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 Athens for around $995, although the average price for a direct cremation is $1,495. To help families arrange affordable cremation services we have selected only family-owned cremation services providers who can offer a direct cremation package.

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

Are there are additional fees to a cremation package?

In order for a cremation to be conducted a ‘disposition permit’ must be issued by the county. At present there is no charge for this. Death certificates are an additional cost, as these are issued by the county, and are a third-party expense. Death certificates cost $25 for the first certificate and $5 for each additional copy issued.

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

This is one of the most frequent questions families ask about cremation. Strict laws govern the cremation of human remains and identity checks must be made all along the way. The cremation retort must be completely cleared following a cremation and only one cremation can be performed at a time. The remains are cleared into a machine that filters out any metal parts (tooth fillings, hip replacements) and then ground into the fine ‘dust’ that is returned as cremation ashes.

What if I am not sure about cremation or the family cannot agree about cremation?

Cremation is such a final disposition, you do need to ensure that you are completely sure that this IS the ‘right’ disposition choice for you. Certain laws are in place to ensure this final disposition can only proceed if the legal next of kin has authorized it. A Cremation Authorization Form must be signed by the legal next of kin, and in the case of children, many funeral directors will require all children sign.

You can authorize an agent for your final disposition or sign the authorization when you preplan a cremation.

What can you do with the cremated remains?

The options of what you can do with the cremated remains of your loved one are one of the reasons cremation is becoming more popular. You can, of course, just choose to inter the remains in a cemetery plot. You can inter the remains in a niche or columbarium, or you can keep the ashes at home. Keepsake urns even enable you to disperse the ashes between several family members, or choose to scatter some and retain a ‘keepsake’ memorial.

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

Can I preplan a direct cremation at an affordable cost?

Yes. You can preplan a simple direct cremation service. This is generally funded through an insurance product that will cover this cost when the need arises. All monies are secured in a trust fund.

How quickly can a cremation be performed?

It generally takes a few days to make the necessary arrangements, complete all the legal paperwork and schedule the cremation. However, expedited services can be arranged if required. In Georgia there is a mandatory 24 hour wait period after death before a cremation can be conducted.

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

Clarke County DFCS, 284 North Avenue, Athens, Georgia 30603 Phone (706) 227-7021

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 $850 with DFS Memorials is a dignified, yet affordable, disposition alternative if your family is struggling financially.

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

Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services in Augusta, GA

Posted on May 24, 2017 by Cremation Advisor

The cremation trend is today changing the way we think about arranging a funeral. Cremation is fast becoming a preferred option to burial with more than 50% of families now choosing cremation.

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 as a cremation service will cost less than a traditional burial, this becomes a more affordable funeral option. 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.

So how much is a traditional funeral in Augusta, GA

The average cost of a traditional funeral service in Augusta is $7,005*. This does not include any cemetery costs though, so the full cost of a funeral burial is likely to be nearer to $9,000.

How much does a cremation cost in Augusta, GA?

Cremation prices in Augusta 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 service in Augusta is $3,946 but a basic cremation can be conducted for much less. A simple, direct cremation can be conducted for as little as $995, although the average cost for a direct cremation was surveyed at $1,311.

With 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.

How to compare cremation costs in Augusta?

The cost of a cremation can vary enormously – for the exact same service – and from different providers of cremation services in Augusta. So 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 disposition permits are often additional ‘cash advance’ items.

What are the additional fees that may be added to a cremation cost?

The death certificates are generally an additional fee as these are third-party costs that the funeral home must pay to Richmond County. A death certificate costs $25 for the first certificate and $5 for each additional copy ordered. It is usually advisable to have several copies for closing the deceased estate.

Disposition permits are issued to allow the cremation to proceed. At present there is no charge for disposition permits in Georgia.

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

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Augusta, GA

There are stringent laws and operating practices governing the cremation of human remains. A cremation cannot be performed until a disposition permit is issued by the medical examiner’s office. The legal next of kin must sign a Cremation Authorization Form. There is a mandatory 24-hour wait period after the death in Georgia before the cremation can be done. 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 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 insist all children sign.

You can authorize an agent for your final disposition or sign the authorization when you preplan a cremation.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

Cremation can offer greater flexibility in what you can do with the remains. 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?

Sadly, 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 Richmond County Human Services Department to inquire at:

Richmond County DFCS
520 Fenwick Street
Augusta, Georgia 30903-2277
Phone Number (706) 721-3000

The deceased is held at the County Morgue. How do I claim the body from the Medical Examiner?

In cases where the deceased has been transferred into the care of the Coroner or Medical Examiner, you still need to employ the services of a funeral home, as only a licensed funeral director can collect the deceased from the county morgue.

Most funeral homes are familiar with the process and can work with the ME to get the body released as soon as possible. You can also arrange a simple, low cost cremation with your selected funeral services provider, as often costs can be maintained low when the deceased is at the Medical Examiner’s office at 912 8^th Street, Augusta, GA 30060.

Hopefully this brief article has helped answer a few questions you have about arranging affordable cremation services. Please visit our resource section for more information.

*Prices obtained May 2017 from online funeral price comparison website – Parting

Direct Cremation Services in Cincinnati

Posted on April 1, 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 Cincinnati. 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 Cincinnati?

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 $950 and $4,000. In order to help families arrange affordable cremation services we only select family-owned cremation service providers in Cincinnati who can offer a basic cremation package at an affordable cost.

Cremation services in Cincinnati

cincinnati-cremation-services 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.

A cremation can be conducted but the funeral service does not have to be held immediately. This can enable the family to deal with the need to take care of the disposition of the deceased but allow for befitting memorial services to be planned for a time when the family feels better able to come together and celebrate the life of their lost loved one.

Direct cremation services in Cincinnati

A 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 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-cincinnati 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 so as to protect funeral consumers.

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 many states, a mandatory 24 hour wait period must occur after death but this does not apply in Ohio unless there was an infectious disease issue.

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

There is very little ‘free’ money to help families with funeral costs. What assistance there is for funeral expenses also varies by state and county. You would need to contact Hamilton County Human Services to find out more.