3 Things To Talk To A Funeral Director When Considering Cremation

When your loved one dies, you must decide whether to have them buried or cremated. Many people choose to go with cremation for several reasons. If you are going to have your loved one cremated, there are some things that you can check into which can make the funeral process more accessible and less expensive. So, what are those things? 

Casket Requirements

States vary in what they require the deceased to be in when cremated. In some states, cremation can go on as long as the body is in some container. That container can be as simple as a cardboard box, or the state may require wooden containers. The funeral director should be able to tell you your state requirements. If you are going to have a funeral or viewing before the cremation, you may want to have a fancier casket at that point. However, you may not want to pay the money to have that fancy casket burned, so check with the funeral director to see if a casket can be rented for viewing or funeral purposes.

Embalming

Embalming is the process of using preservative chemicals to keep the body fresh until it is time to bury or cremate them. While everyone thinks it is necessary or a requirement to be cremated, in some states, it is not. You may choose not to have your loved one embalmed, especially if you go straight to a cremation without a funeral or a viewing. Not embalming your loved one can also help save money on the cremation procedure.  

Cremains Disposition

It would be best if you also talked to the funeral director about the disposition of your loved one's cremains. You may want to purchase an urn or other storage container from the funeral home, and when you get the cremains back, they will be stored in that container. If you choose not to go that route, you will likely get them back in a cardboard box with a liner inside. That will let you decide how to handle your loved one's cremains. If you are going to scatter the ashes somewhere, this could be the right option. 

Losing a loved one can be very difficult. Deciding whether to have them buried or cremated is important, even if it might feel difficult for you. Contact a funeral home near you with any questions because, after all, that is what they are there for.