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How to shop for a simple cremation.

All funeral homes are required to list a price for a simple cremation package, usually called "Direct Cremation." This price does not include any services such as embalming or viewing at the funeral home. You can plan a memorial service at another time and location, without the services of the funeral director. If you are planning arrangements for a simple cremation, it won't matter if an out-of-town funeral home comes to pick up the body.

There can be a HUGE difference between funeral homes in the cost of direct cremation. You must be assertive and shop around. Funeral homes are required to give prices over the telephone. Using the Yellow Pages of your local telephone book, consider calling all funeral homes in a 50 mile radius. Don't be bashful about telling the funeral home that price is a concern, and even consider telling then the lowest price you've been quoted.

First, ask for the price of "a direct cremation with a minimum alternative container" (that means a cardboard casket or other non-fancy box). Once you have the price, ask, "Does this include the crematory fee?" While this sounds ridiculous ("Did you want an engine with this automobile?"), if the funeral home does not own the crematory they are using the fee may be extra. Then ask, "Are there any additional charges?" These may include a medical examiner's fee, or other permits. Then ask, "Will you charge a non-declinable service fee in connection with a Direct Cremation?" Current FTC regulations allow this charge, and unless you ask in advance you will have no recourse except to pay the fee if it is charged. Once a given funeral home is aware that you are shopping around, it is very unlikely that they will charge this fee.

Cremation prices may vary considerably from are to area, especially if there is open price competition. Cremation prices may be as low as $500.00, or as high as $2000.00! If you secure a price agreement for less than $900.00 in your service area, you have probably done a good job of shopping.