Cremations have overtaken traditional burials with more than 50 percent of all Americans choosing cremation and the percentage is expected to continue to increase. In addition, more and more families are choosing Direct Cremation instead of traditional funeral services. Funeral service providers across the nation reported that 70 to 80 percent of their services feature Direct Cremation.
A Direct Cremation, sometimes called a “Simple Cremation” or “Immediate Cremation” is when the cremation is performed soon after death, without a viewing, visitation or funeral service of any kind.
Oftentimes, people assume that the term “Direct Cremation” means the deceased is taken from the place of death directly to the crematory. This is not the case. Death Certificates, contracts and state required permits must all be completed before the cremation can actually take place or be scheduled, often several days later.
Why is direct cremation gaining popularity?
Many funeral service providers state that approximately 80 percent of their clients request Direct Cremations. Why are families overwhelmingly choosing Direct Cremations?
There are two main reasons behind such great popularity of direct cremation.
- Affordability
- Flexibility
So, let’s have an in-depth look at how Direct Cremation changed the funeral services landscape.
Direct Cremation is more cost-effective than traditional funeral services!
Funeral expenses have grown out of reach of the average family. Most families simply cannot absorb the cost of the average funeral, which can be upwards of $6,000 and oftentimes $10,000 when additional costs such as mortuary fees are included. Keep in mind that this is for an average, run-of-the-mill funeral service. Many funeral services can cost much more.
The Simple Fact is that most families are striving to make ends meet and have not set aside funds for a funeral service for their loved ones. Unless their loved one had an estate or Pre-Paid for preplanned services, the family is put in a difficult fiscal situation.
Direct Cremation has emerged as an affordable alternative. In most cases, a Direct Cremation will cost no more than 40 percent of the cost of a basic funeral service. When arranged through a funeral home, a direct cremation package could cost up to $2,000.
With the advent of Direct Cremation providers, a Direct Cremation package can be purchased for less than half the price, from $600 to $995.
Arranging on time memorial services, place to suit family needs and budget
A Direct Cremation gives the family the flexibility to arrange for a memorial service – or multiple memorial services – at the date, time and locale of the family’s choosing, thereby avoiding the costs of a casket and funeral services. NOTE: If you choose to hold a service before the cremation, you would be engaging in a “traditional cremation” and not a Direct Cremation.
Direct Cremation also provides for nearly limitless ways for your loved one to present with you whether inside of an urn in your home or office or within cremation jewelry that can be shared with any number of loving family and friends.
