When someone dies, the family goes through many emotional and practical decisions. One of the most important decisions is how to conduct the final rites. Many people are choosing cremation over traditional burial. They find it more convenient, less time-consuming, and less expensive.
It’s true that cremation service doesn’t require a grave, shroud, or expensive funeral services. But what many people don’t realize is that cremation isn’t exactly cheap. It also comes with hidden costs that can add up to a significant increase in the overall cost over time.
If you or your family are considering cremation, it’s best to be fully informed and keep these things in mind.
1. difference between the basic fee and the actual cost
The price of cremation that you see in an advertisement or on a website is just the “basic” price. It includes transporting the body, placing it in a simple box, and returning the ashes. This price usually ranges from $500 to $1,500.
But if you want a memorial service, a nice casket, or a special urn, all of that comes at a separate cost.
2. Funeral home services
Cremation does not involve burial, but most families hold a memorial service, such as a prayer meeting or memorial service.
Funeral homes charge separate fees for the venue, staff, lighting, sound, and other arrangements for these services. These fees can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars.
3. Casket or casket
The body must be placed in a casket or casket before cremation. Some places provide a simple cardboard box for free, but many people opt for a more elaborate one that can cost $100 to $1,000 or more.
This fee is often not included in the basic package.
4. Urn and memorial items
When cremation is complete, the ashes are returned in a simple container. However, many families prefer to have a beautiful or sturdy urn so that they can be kept at home.
A good urn can cost $50 to $500 or more. Some people also choose to have small urns or urns to hold the ashes so that they can be distributed to different people. All of these costs are additional.
5. Costs of transport the body
A vehicle must be arranged to transport the body from the hospital, home, or nursing home to the cremation center. In some areas, the first few miles are free, but then a per-mile charge is applied.
If the cremation is in another city or state, these costs increase even more.
6. Legal documents and permits
Certain documents are required by law for cremation, such as:
Death certificate
Cremation permit
Medical report, etc.
These documents are not free. Each state has its own fees. Most families need several copies so they can submit them to their bank, insurance, or other agencies.
7. Burial or scattering costs
Some families bury the ashes in a special place or scatter them in a river, ocean, or mountain. If the place is public or falls under a specific law, a permit and fee are required to scatter the ashes there.
In some cases, land must be purchased in a cemetery to bury the ashes or a space must be obtained in a memorial wall. These are also additional costs.
8. Hidden and additional costs
In addition to the basic cremation, there are some costs that people do not estimate.
Cremation expert “Kevin” says:
“Most families ignore the cost of the urn. Some places provide a simple container, but if you want a beautiful or sturdy urn, that is available for a separate price.”
These additional costs are often not included in the package. You have to pay for them separately.
These include:
Death Certificates
A death certificate is legally required for cremation. Families often require multiple copies, the fees for which vary by state.
Moving Costs
If the body is being transported from a distant location or from one city to another, the process can be expensive. Sometimes the cost of an ambulance or hearse is not included in the package.
Legal Permits and Documents
Some states require a special permit for cremation. There are also fees for preparing documents such as a medical report or death notice.
Obituaries
Some families publish news of the deceased’s death in a newspaper or website. The cost depends on the size of the ad and the location of the publication.
Conclusion
Cremation may seem like a cheaper and easier option than a traditional burial. But there are many hidden costs that can surprise you. Things like urns, memorial services, transportation, legal documents, and scattering fees all add up. Before choosing cremation, make sure you understand the full cost. It’s always better to plan ahead and avoid unexpected expenses during a difficult time.
