Understanding cremation costs in Connecticut

Posted on July 20, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

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

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

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

What can you expect to pay for cremation in Hartford?

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

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

The price of cremation in New Haven, CT

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

Cremation costs in Bridgeport, CT

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

There are around 200 funeral homes across Connecticut with annual revenue of around $200M.

CT Funeral Market

* Prices obtained from online funeral survey 2018 – Parting

Cremation costs in Queens, NY – just $485 + crematory fee

Posted on June 20, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

Are you concerned about funeral costs? This brief guide to funeral and cremation costs in Queens, NY can help you understand the differences in price for a funeral, and more importantly, how you can arrange a simple, basic cremation for as little as $485.00.

What is the average cost of a funeral in Queens?

These days we are discerning consumers, very mindful of costs, and people are now realizing they can price-shop for funeral services. Why should we not ask how much it costs?

The Internet offers a great tool to research funeral costs from the comfort of your own home. Unfortunately, not all funeral homes have websites or put their prices online, so we have put this guide together to outline average funeral and cremation costs in Queens for you.

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

So how do cremation costs compare in Queens?

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

No casket, cemetery plot or burial vault is required, immediately reducing some of the most expensive purchases related to funeral expenses.

The average price for a cremation funeral service in Queens is $3,915*.

Direct cremation services in Queens, NY

A direct cremation is the funeral industry term for a ‘simple cremation’. Only the cremation service is provided by the funeral home. 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 Queens for $485, although the average price for a direct cremation is $1,969. To help families arrange affordable cremation services we have selected only family-owned cremation services providers who can offer a direct cremation for just $485.

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

The crematory fee is $180.00 and the NYC cremation permit fee is $40. With a death certificate and processing fee, this means that the total package price for a direct cremation in Queens is $726.50.

Direct cremation means a family can manage to conduct dignified funeral services for as little as $726.50 complete!

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

Are there are additional fees to the $485 cremation?

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

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

This is one of the most frequent questions families ask about cremation.

Strict laws govern the cremation of human remains and identity checks must be made all along the way.

The cremation retort must be completely cleared following a cremation and only one cremation can be performed at a time. The remains are cleared into a machine that filters out any metal parts (tooth fillings, hip replacements) and then ground into the fine ‘dust’ that is returned as cremation ashes.

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

Cremation is such a final disposition, you do need to ensure that you are completely sure that this IS the ‘right’ disposition choice for you. Certain laws are in place to ensure this final disposition can only proceed if the legal next of kin has authorized it. 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 New York, there is a mandatory 24-hour wait period after death before a cremation can be conducted.

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

There is very little ‘free’ money to help families with funeral costs. What is available is constantly changing due to budget constraints, and varies by county. In NYC there is some funding available to support low-income families with funeral costs. As up to $900 can be paid, this can enable a family struggling financially to cover the cost of a simple cremation. Check out NYC Burial Assistance Program.

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 $485 with DFS Memorials is a dignified, yet affordable, disposition alternative if your family is struggling financially.

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

*Funeral prices obtained from online funeral price survey website May 2019

Affordable direct cremation in Alexandria, LA – $994

Posted on March 15, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

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

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

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

What is the average cost of a funeral in Alexandria?

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

How much does a cremation service cost?

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

Compare funeral & cremation average costs

Credit: Parting 2019 – Average funeral & Cremation prices

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

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

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

What do you need to understand when arranging a cremation?

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

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

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

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

What you need to know about cremation services and costs in California in 2019

Posted on February 19, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

What is the cremation rate in California?

California is ranked as the state in the U.S. with the highest population (39,766,830 in 2018) which represents 12% of the total population.

The states in the West also have some of the highest cremation rates, with California ranking at 14^th, and a cremation rate of 63.4% in 2015 (latest state by state data). This is above the national cremation rate, which reached 53.5% in 2017.

So, it is apparent that cremation is a preferred alternative to burial for families across the West Coast. How has this affected the funeral industry in California? And, more importantly, has this made cremation a more affordable option for Californians?

The average traditional burial funeral service in California can run to $10,000 or more, whereas the average price for a cremation service is between $600 to $3,000. This means cremation services offer a more affordable, and more flexible, alternative to traditional funeral services.

How much does it cost for a cremation in Los Angeles?

As mentioned above, cremations can cost between $600 to $3,000. This can depend on the type of cremation service selected, and the cremation service provider chosen. A direct cremation is the cheapest cremation option.

Online sources quote that in LA, the average cost for a cremation memorial service is $2,781*, and the average cost for a direct cremation is $1,524*.

In the Greater Los Angeles area, a direct cremation service can be conducted for as little as $625. A direct cremation is a basic cremation without any ceremony or services conducted by the funeral home or mortuary. The deceased is collected directly from the place of death and transported to the funeral home or crematory. The cremation is conducted, and the cremated remains then returned to the family.

The chart here provides a sample of direct cremation prices from a selection of Los Angeles direct cremation service providers in 2019.

Compare cremation costs in Los Angeles

How do cremation prices compare in the Bay Area?

The Bay Area, including San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland, and Stockton, compares very similarly to LA, with cremation prices ranging from $650 to $3,300. Marin County has one of the highest cremation rates in the country, and cremation is certainly a popular choice for many Bay Area residents. There are several cremation companies that have chosen to focus on the demand for simple and low-cost direct cremation, and offer arrangements without the need to even visit a funeral home. So, you will find a number of direct cremation providers competing for this affordable cremation market and offering a direct cremation service for between $650 and $850.

Compare cremation prices in San Francisco

What can you expect to pay for cremation in Sacramento?

The average cost for a direct cremation in Sacramento is $1,642*, although again, there are cremation providers offering lower-cost direct cremation. The best price for affordable direct cremation in Sacramento is around $695.

Cremation costs in Northern California.

The basic cost rises somewhat in Northern California, and a simple direct cremation service will cost in and around $995 in Redding and in the region of $1,400 in Chico.

Direct cremation in Southern California.

San Diego has a high cremation rate and a low direct cremation price. The average price for a direct cremation is $1,358*, although the lowest cost is $600. As the cremation market is competitive in San Diego, there are several funeral homes offering a direct cremation service for under $1,000. The chart here shows a sample of direct cremation prices from providers who offer a service for under $1,000.

Compare cremation costs in San Diego

Where is the cheapest place to be cremated in California?

Southern California proves to be the cheapest place to be cremated. In Los Angeles and San Diego, direct cremation services are available for between $600 – $625. Being that both these cities have the largest populations in California, there will be growing interest from funeral service providers to capture more of the cremation market, as the cremation rate continues to climb. So, it is possible that the cremation market will become even more competitive and drive prices lower.

What laws govern cremation services in California?

Each state has a funeral licensing body. It is their responsibility to ensure that state laws pertaining to the disposition of a body are correctly implemented and to conduct inspections and licensed establishments.

Before cremation can be performed, a ‘Declaration for Disposition of Cremated Remains Form’ must be legally signed. This must be signed by the legal immediate next-of-kin, or if you are preplanning, you can sign the form for yourself. This form is a written authorization for the cremation to proceed. A contract with the cremation service provider should also specify the location and time of disposition, and an agreement to pay the cost for the cremation service.

The funeral director must obtain a ‘Permit for Disposition of Human Remains VS 9’ from the county health department. Commonly referred to as a cremation permit. Once all the legal paperwork is completed, the cremation process can go ahead.

According to California law, there is no requirement for a casket for cremation, but a ‘combustible cremation container’ must be used for the purpose of cremation.

How long does cremation take in California?

A cremation can proceed when all the required legal paperwork and permits are authorized and completed. Firstly, the death certificate must be obtained. How long this takes can depend on the doctor signing the death certificate off, and the nature of the cause of death. Once, a death certificate is obtained and the Cremation Authorization Form is in order, the funeral director can obtain the permit to cremate from the county.

Generally, this all takes a few days, and the cremated remains should be available for you to collect within 7 to 10 days after the deceased was taken into the care of the cremation services provider.

Can you deal directly with a crematory in California?

In California, the use of a funeral home is not required by law. Therefore, if you so choose, you can deal directly with a crematory to handle the cremation. If you are not using the services of a funeral director, you would need to apply for, and file, the death certificate and obtain the Permit for Disposition from the county registrar.

Arranging a direct cremation & conducting a family memorial or ash-scattering in California

More families are opting to choose direct cremation and then perform their own memorial service. This is a significant way to make death care affordable and personalized. Once the funeral home has completed the direct cremation and the family has the ashes returned, a memorial can be organized at a time and place that is appropriate and meaningful. All this can be arranged at a fraction of the cost of a cremation funeral or a burial funeral with a funeral home.

What is the cost of an ash-scattering at sea off the coast of California?

California has an expansive coastline and therefore attracts many residents who wish to perform a scattering of cremated remains at the coast, or in the Pacific Ocean. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires a sea scattering to be performed 3 nautical miles out at sea.

There are numerous charter services from Southern and Central California. The cost for a sea scattering will vary, depending on whether it is accompanied or unaccompanied. Unaccompanied scattering can start at around $200, especially if offered as an ‘add-on’ service by your cremation provider. Charters for groups to go out to conduct a sea scattering ceremony will again vary, depending on the size of the boat, people attending and how many hours at sea are requested.

What happens if you cannot afford a cremation in California?

Sadly, we are entering an era of ‘funeral poverty’ where too many families find themselves unprepared for funeral expenses. Counties generally have an obligation to cover the costs for indigent dispositions. However, there is very limited financial assistance for those that are low-income or simply living paycheck to paycheck.

A low-cost direct cremation is the most inexpensive option, but most cremation providers will require payment in full before they will collect the deceased and transfer he or she into their care.

If you have any further questions about cremation services in California, call your nearest DFS Memorials affordable cremation provider, who will be happy to assist you.

Sources:

The cremation rate in California

Population data

*Prices obtained from Parting funeral comparison website February 2019

Affordable direct cremation service in Long Island, NY

Posted on September 30, 2018 by Cremation Advisor

Direct 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.

What 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.

Arranging an affordable cremation service in Miramar, FL – Just $696

Posted on September 27, 2018 by N. G Pelling

Do you need to arrange a dignified funeral at an affordable cost? We have put together this article to help you understand how you can save money arranging a funeral. In fact, you can arrange a simple, direct cremation for just $696!

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Miramar can be around $10,000+, 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.

Cremation vs. burial?

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 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 Miramar?

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. A direct cremation package can be conducted for just $696 with DFS Memorials.

Direct cremation services in Miramar, 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 Miramar on (954) 281-7747 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 Miramar, 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.

DFS Memorials offer a direct cremation service for just $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 $5.00 for the first certificate and $4 for each additional death certificate required. You should also note that the county coroner may charge a fee if they are required to sign the death certificate.

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

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 24-hour wait period after death before the cremation can proceed. Before a cremation can go ahead the doctor must sign and fill out the cause of death, and the county health department must issue a permit to cremate.

The deceased will be refrigerated during this period, and longer if required, however you should be aware that many cremation packages will only include refrigeration for up to 5 days and will charge you a daily rate thereon.

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

Can I preplan a cremation?

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

What can we do with the cremated remains?

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

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

Sadly there is little financial aid that supports those families that find themselves struggling with funeral costs. Most counties do have a budget for indigent funerals but this is generally for those individuals who truly are indigent. Some counties do have limited funds to help low-income families with cremation costs but this can vary county by county. You would need to make inquiries with Broward County Human Services Department on (954) 357-6385 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 Miramar. 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: 780 SW 24 Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315 Phone: 954-467-4700

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 at Broward County Coroner, 5301 SW 31st Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312.

Hopefully this short guide to arranging an affordable cremation service in Miramar 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.

What does a direct cremation cost in Deltona, FL – $895

Posted on September 15, 2018 by N. G Pelling

Today more and more families are deciding they want a simple and more affordable funeral option. Be it that they cannot afford to spend thousands of dollars on a funeral, or simply want a ‘no fuss’ alternative. Direct cremation is the cheapest funeral alternative.

For those families in Deltona who do not want to overspend on a funeral, or simply cannot afford a costly funeral, cremation is a low-cost alternative.

What is the average cost of a funeral in Deltona?

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

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Deltona is $5,985*.

So how do cremation costs compare in Deltona?

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 Deltona is $2,940*.

Direct cremation services in Deltona, FL

Direct cremation is the funeral 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.

Cremation prices in Deltona FL 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 Deltona for $895, although the average price for a direct cremation is $995. To help families arrange affordable cremation services we have selected only family-owned cremation services providers who can offer a basic cremation package for just $895.

Direct cremation means a family can manage to conduct dignified funeral services for as little as $895

Call now on (386) 487-2922 now to arrange a low-cost cremation

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 $5 for the first certificate and $4 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?

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

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 Florida 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 Volusia county DFCS to find out what may be available to you locally: Volusia County DFCS, 107 Canal St, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168 Phone: (386) 423-3309

There is also a $255 lump sum social security death benefit payment if the deceased qualifies, and your funeral director can help you claim this. So you may find that a low-cost cremation at $895 with DFS Memorials is a dignified, yet affordable, disposition alternative if your family is struggling financially.

What is the service area around Deltona?

The $895 direct cremation package is in Deltona and surrounding counties.

If you have further questions about cremation, feel free to call us on (386) 487-2922 and we will be happy to try and help you.

*funeral prices obtained from online funeral price survey website 2018

Finding an affordable direct cremation service in Metairie, LA

Posted on August 6, 2018 by Cremation Advisor

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

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

Why choose a cremation service?

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

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

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

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

What does a cremation cost?

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

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

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

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

What legally do you need to know about cremation?

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

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

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

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

What can you do with the cremated remains?

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

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

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

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

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

*Prices from Parting Funeral Survey 2018

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

How to arrange an affordable cremation service in Akron, OH

Posted on June 4, 2018 by Cremation Advisor

This short guide aims to help you understand cremation options and costs in Akron. We understand that many families today are seeking more affordable alternatives when it comes to death care.

The internet has provided a great way to research pricing and services for many sectors, yet still many funeral homes do not disclose their prices online. Here, we inform you of what average costs are, and how to find the most affordable cremation option.

What is the average cost of a funeral in Akron?

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

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

What are cremation costs in Akron?

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

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

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

The average cost of a direct cremation in Akron is $1,628*, although it is possible to arrange a direct cremation for as little as $745.

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

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

*Funeral prices obtained from Parting funeral price survey May 2018