Following are some typical questions and answers which you may find helpful if you are considering using a crematory.
Should I contact the crematory directly or a funeral director
Since the funeral director is legally responsible for obtaining the death certificate, and generally prepares the obituary, you may want to begin with a licensed professional.
Some funeral homes also operate their own crematory. Others coordinate the cremation process through a crematory they feel meets the family and their standards.
How do I decide on a funeral director or crematory if price is a major concern
Identify firms within an area you consider a fair distance. Call them and explain what you have in mind. After 3 calls, you should have a range of prices. More important, you will have a feel for the firm's responsiveness to your needs.
Or, check with friends, who may have experiences to share with you. While no business thrives on poor service, many firms will clearly put your interests first. It is in their voice and demeanor, by phone or in person.
Should I indicate to my family that I prefer to have cremation or burial
A spouse or children may have a perspective that you would choose to honor. While cremation is widely accepted, 50%-75% of all deaths in the United States result in burials. Earth burial is more expensive because a plot is necessary and most cemeteries require a concrete outer container to prevent sinking of the grave. Cremated remains avoid those costs as the family may choose to retain the ashes, in an urn or otherwise, or may choose to scatter them on a family farm or lake -not in the back yard, which would violate most city ordinances.
What is the cost of cremation
It depends on the location, circumstances, desire for viewing services, whether services will be held and the distance of the crematory from the funeral home.
The actual cremation fee may range from $150 to $500. But that would not cover the cost of removing the deceased person, obtaining the death certificate, security of the remains, refrigeration, and matters related to final disposition, which may range from $1,200 to $3,000 depending on services, memorials and circumstances outlined above.
How do I decide on cremation or burial, if I am uncertain about what I wish to do
You are under no obligation to make any decision regarding your death. If you want to set aside funds for a funeral of your choice, or prearrange the kind of funeral you want, that is your right. If you have family, and want them to decide, that is fine, too. However, in many states, the laws allow survivors to change the deceased person's wishes.
We hope these questions and answers are helpful. Look around in your area, ask questions, check with friends. That investment of time will likely be very helpful to you.
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