Have you recently lost a loved one and know that their wishes are to have their remains cremated? If so, you may be wondering what the costs are and what you can expect to be included in different types of packages. Though there are many things more important at this time than money—such as honoring your loved on and spending time with others in remembrance—it’s still good to know what to expect so you won’t be surprised when you get the bill.

Here are some basics on cremation cost near me and what is included in a standard package.

Basic Professional Services

When you get a basic cremation package, you will get the professional services of a funeral director and his or her staff. This includes expertise on issues like taxes, and licenses as well as consultations, preparation and filing of permits, and placement of obituary notices.

Care of the Deceased Costs

There are some additional costs related to the care of the deceased. These include post organ donation, refrigeration of unembalmed remains, care and custody of remains after three days, and hair care and cosmetology.

Merchandise and Supplemental Service Costs

Most of those who have a loved one cremated will want to purchase urns or other types of containers in which to put the remains. Cremation urns usually run anywhere from about $100 all the way up to $4000.

You can also choose some supplemental services that come with an extra cost. Examples include urn engraving, ocean scattering of remains, rush services, additional hours of visitation, use of facility for memorial services, use of the facility for ritual or ceremonial purposes, photo remembrances, prayer cards, and release of balloons, butterflies, or doves during the service.

Minimum Service Package

Most cremation facilities have a minimum direct cremation service package. This includes the following:

• The basic services of the funeral director and his or staff.
• Removal and transfer of the deceased to the funeral home within a 20 mile radius.
• Transportation of the deceased to the crematory.
• A 15-minute viewing period for the family.
• Refrigeration of the deceased.
• The cremation process.
• Delivery of the remains to a cemetery within 20 miles.

Most minimum service packages start at around $2,000 though this can vary depending on which cremation facility you choose and what part of the country you are located in, so that a “cremation cost near me” search will optimize your cost overall.

Choosing the Best Package for Your Needs

It’s important to choose a package that you feel will honor your loved one while still being within budget so you and your loved ones paying the costs will not feel financial anxiety. It’s best to meet with all those involved in the decision making process so you can go over the different services and extras offered so you can make a unified, informed decision that everyone is comfortable with.

Cremation Cost Near Me: Being Informed

Knowing what cremation cost near me will be will help you and the rest of your family and loved ones be prepared so you can budget for the services and make sure you can come together and grieve with as little financial stress as possible.