Making cremation arrangements for a deceased loved one doesn't have to be complicated. However, you need to be aware of what key details you must look into and decide on when planning out the process. The following are seven details you don't want to overlook when making cremation arrangements.

State requirements

Every state has its own unique requirements when it comes to cremation procedures. State requirements can impact details like what paperwork needs to be filed and how soon a cremation can be done after the deceased passes away.

You should familiarize yourself with your state's requirements so that you know what to expect during the cremation procedure that you're planning. 

Cremation facility

It's important to research carefully when choosing your cremation facility. It's best to choose a facility that has a crematory on-site to simplify the process. It's also important to decide if you want to work with a cremation facility that also offers standard funeral home services. 

Urn selection

Urn selection is often a key detail. Urn selection is especially important if the urn will be used long-term to store the cremation remains in your home or in the home of another surviving family member or loved one.

Placement of the ashes

If the deceased did not specify their wishes for the placement of cremation remains in a will, you and/or any other surviving family members will have to decide what to do with the ashes. 

Cremation remains are often placed in a cemetery. However, they can also be kept in a private home or scattered over a place that held significance for the deceased.

Memorial service

You have many funeral and/or memorial service options when planning a cremation. It's possible to have an open-casket funeral that precedes cremation. It's also possible to have a memorial service after cremation and display the urn with the cremation remains at the service. 

Consider all of your options to decide on the memorial service solution that best corresponds with the wishes of the deceased as well as the needs of surviving loved ones who wish to attend the service. 

Family and public notification

One of the most important details is deciding how you will notify survivors and the public of any memorial service you're planning as well as the final resting place of the cremation remains.

You might want to put an obituary notification in the local newspaper to get the word out to as many people as possible who may want to attend the memorial service you're planning. 

Costs

Make sure that you remain aware of the costs of the cremation procedure as you plan it. One of the numerous advantages of cremation is that it is often less expensive than a traditional burial.

However, cremation does typically cost at least around $1,100 for direct cremation and considerably more for a cremation that includes ceremony services. 

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