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frequent cremation questions

46 Most Questions People Ask A Cremation Service

A Better Place Funeral & Cremation Services

How much does it cost for a cremation?The cost of cremation will depend on various factors, such as the type of service being requested and additional services you may choose to add. It is best to contact your local crematorium or funeral director for an accurate quote. Ours Start At $795.00!

How much does a memorial service cost?The cost of a memorial service will depend on the type of ceremony or gathering being requested, as well as other services that may be added. It is best to contact your local crematorium or funeral director for an accurate quote.

Are there any laws governing the handling and disposition of cremated remainsYes, there are laws governing the handling and disposition of cremated remains. Depending on where you live, there may be local, state or federal regulations that must be followed when disposing of a loved one’s ashes. It is important to check with your local authorities before making any decisions about how to handle cremains.

Can a family member witness the cremation?Most facilities provide private viewing of the cremation process for families who wish to do so. It is important to ask your local facility about their policies regarding witnessing a cremation prior to scheduling a service.

What happens if I want to keep some of the cremated remains?If you would like to keep some of the cremains, most facilities will provide an urn or other container for you to store them in. It is important to discuss this option with your facility prior to scheduling a service.

Can I spread the cremated remains over a large area?Most facilities allow families to scatter the cremains in an approved location. It is important to check with your local authorities prior to scattering any ashes, as there may be restrictions regarding where they can be scattered.

 How long does it take to process the cremated remains?Most cremations can be completed within 24-48 hours. However, this time frame will depend on a variety of factors including the size and weight of the deceased and the number of requests for cremation services at any given time. It is best to contact your local facility for an accurate estimate.

What do I need to bring with me when arranging a cremation?When arranging a cremation, it is important to bring all necessary paperwork with you, such as death certificates and any other documents that may be required by your local authorities. In some cases, you may also need to bring the deceased's clothing or other personal items. It is best to contact your local facility for a list of items that need to be presented prior to the cremation process.

What do I need to do if I want the cremated remains shipped?If you would like the cremated remains shipped, it is important to contact your local facility for specific guidelines and requirements. Generally, you will need to provide the facility with a valid shipping address, payment for any additional services (such as a tracking number or expedited delivery) and other necessary paperwork.

Can I bring a religious item with me to be cremated?Yes, many facilities allow families to bring items of special significance to be cremated with their loved one. It is important to check with your local facility for any specific guidelines or restrictions prior to bringing the item.

What kind of clothing can I bring for my loved one?Most facilities will accept any type of clothing as long as it does not contain metal or other objects that could damage the cremation chamber. It is important to check with your local facility for any specific guidelines or restrictions prior to bringing the clothing.

Will I receive an itemized bill when I arrange a cremation?Yes, most facilities will provide you with an itemized bill that outlines all of the services provided as part of your cremation package. It is important to review the bill carefully prior to making any payments and to ask questions if you have any concerns or queries about the services provided.

Are there any restrictions on where I can keep a loved one’s ashes?Depending on where you live, there may be local or state regulations that restrict where you can keep a loved one's ashes. It is important to check with your local authorities prior to making any arrangements regarding the storage of cremated remains.

What do I need to consider when selecting an urn?When selecting an urn, it is important to consider the size and type of material that will best suit your needs. You may want to consider an urn that is decorative and reflects the personality of your loved one, or something simpler and more understated. It is also important to check with your local facility for any restrictions on the size or type of urn that can be used.

What are my options if I do not wish to keep the cremated remains?If you do not wish to keep the cremated remains, there are a variety of options available. You may choose to bury them in an approved location or scatter them in an approved spot. You may also opt for a memorial service or donate the remains to medical science. It is important to check with your local facility for specific guidelines and restrictions relating to these options.

How can I find a reputable cremation service?Finding a reputable cremation service begins with researching the various providers in your area and reading reviews online. It is important to check that the provider you choose is licensed, insured, and accredited by state agencies. You should also ask any questions you may have and make sure that the provider is willing to provide all of the services you require.

What types of payment do cremation services accept?Most cremation services will accept a variety of payment methods, including cash, check, money order and credit/debit card. It is important to check with your local facility for any specific requirements or restrictions prior to making a payment.

Do I have to be present during the cremation?No, you do not need to be present during the cremation process unless you wish to be. However, most facilities will require that a legal representative of the deceased be present in order to provide authorization for the cremation.

Can I hold a memorial service after the cremation?Yes, many facilities allow families to arrange a memorial service after the cremation process has been completed. It is important to check with your local facility for any specific guidelines or restrictions prior to making arrangements.

What type of container should I bring to transport my loved one’s remains?Most facilities will provide either a cardboard or plastic cremation container for transporting your loved one’s remains. It is important to check with your local facility for any specific requirements or restrictions prior to making arrangements.

What is the difference between a memorial service and a funeral?A funeral typically takes place before cremation, while a memorial service typically takes place after cremation. A funeral usually includes viewing of the body and involves many rituals and traditions specific to different cultures or religions. A memorial service, on the other hand, is less formal and can involve the presence of a cremation urn with the deceased's remains, but not necessarily. Memorial services may also include eulogies, music, readings, and other elements to honor the deceased person’s life. Both types of service allow family members and friends to come together to remember and celebrate the life of their loved one.

What are some of the benefits of having a cremation service?Cremation is an increasingly popular choice for many individuals, due to its affordability and convenience, as well as its respect for the environment. Cremations also provide families with flexibility and freedom when it comes to planning a memorial service that best

What is the difference between cremation and traditional burial?Cremation is a simpler and more economical alternative to a traditional burial. Cremation reduces the body to ashes, which can then be placed in an urn or other container of choice, while a traditional burial requires more costly services such as embalming, casketing, and grave digging. Additionally, cremation allows for more flexible memorialization options since the ashes can be kept in a variety of locations or even scattered.

How long does it take to cremate a body?The average cremation process typically takes two to three hours after preparation is complete. However, the amount of time it takes to cremate a body can depend on the size and weight of the individual.

What is required for cremation?For cremation to take place, authorization forms must be filled out and signed by an authorized family member or representative. Additionally, a death certificate must be obtained from the local government and a cremation permit must be obtained from the local health department. Finally, the body must be properly prepared for cremation, which involves ensuring that any medical devices or pacemakers are removed prior to the process.

Is embalming necessary before cremation?No, embalming is not necessary for cremation. Embalming is, however, recommended if there is a viewing or ceremony before the cremation takes place.

Can I witness the cremation?Yes, many crematoriums offer family members and friends the opportunity to witness the process of the body being placed into the cremation chamber.

How much does a cremation service cost?Cremation services can range in price from basic to more elaborate packages, depending on the type of services you want to include. Costs vary by location and provider, but generally start at around $1,500 for a direct cremation without any accompanying services or additional merchandise. Ours start at $795.00!

Are there ways to scatter the cremated remains?Yes, there are many ways to scatter a loved one’s cremains. Depending on where you live, you may choose to spread them in a special spot in nature or at sea. You can also make arrangements with your local facility to have the ashes scattered by a professional.

Can cremated remains be divided?Yes, in many cases, the ashes of a loved one can be divided among family members or friends. It is important to discuss this option with your local facility prior to scheduling a service so that they can make sure they have what you need available.

How do I honor a loved one’s life after cremation?There are many ways to celebrate the life of a loved one after they have passed away, including memorial services and scattering ceremonies. You can also display photos or other mementos in your home as a tribute to their memory. Talking about your loved one and the impact they had on your life is a great way to honor them. You can also donate money or time to causes that your loved one supported, or engage in an activity that was meaningful to them.

Is cremation cheaper than burial?In some cases, yes. Cremation does not require a plot or memorial stone, thus avoiding certain costs associated with grave sites. Additionally, cremation typically involves fewer people and services than a traditional funeral service. However, the cost of a cremation will vary depending on factors such as the type of cremation, where it is taking place, and additional services required.

Can I arrange for a cremation online?Yes. Many cremation services offer online planning tools that can help you plan for the service and other required details. By working with an experienced provider, you can be sure that your decisions will meet all applicable laws and regulations.

What is the difference between direct cremation and memorial service?A direct cremation involves the body being collected and transported directly to the crematory without any services or ceremonies. A memorial service on the other hand, is a gathering of friends and family for a ceremony to honor the life of the deceased. It typically includes formal speeches, music, and readings in addition to viewing of the body (if desired).

Can I be present for the cremation of my loved one?Yes, but it varies depending on the regulations of the particular cremation service you are working with. Most states allow for a witness to be present during a cremation, however, most services will require that protective gear is worn in order to keep the sanctity of the environment. Be sure to check with your cremation provider for specific regulations. Additionally, consider the wishes of your loved one and your own comfort level when making this decision. In some cases, you may wish to memorialize in a different way that does not involve witnessing cremation, such as scattering their ashes after the cremation is complete. 

Are there any other services I should consider?In addition to a direct cremation or memorial service, you can also look into pre-planning options in order to ensure that all of your wishes are fulfilled after you pass away. By pre-planning, you can choose the type of service that best suits your needs as well as determine how your remains should be handled after death. Pre-planning gives you the opportunity to make decisions in advance and provide your family with peace of mind when it comes time to saying goodbye. Additionally,  pre-planning can also help reduce the financial burden of funeral expenses. It is important to consider any other services that you may want included in your service plan, such as cemetery space or a monument. You should also consider if there are any special requests that you would like fulfilled during the memorial service, such as a particular song or

Can a cremation service help me with my religious or cultural needs?Yes, all reputable cremation services are mindful of religious and cultural customs when creating funeral arrangements. It is important to request any special requirements when making arrangements as some may need prior approval.

Is embalming required prior to cremation?No, embalming is not required prior to cremation. In most cases, all that is necessary is a simple preparation of the deceased. 

What do I need to bring when making cremation arrangements?When making cremation arrangements, you should bring any special instructions from the decedent or their family members, as well as the decedent's death certificate. You should also bring any necessary paperwork, such as a will or insurance policy, and payment for services.

Is cremation financially feasible?Yes, cremation is typically less expensive than traditional burials. Cremation is a simpler process that does not require purchasing of land and expensive caskets, so it tends to be a more cost-effective option.

What is an urn and where do I find one?An urn is a container for storing cremated remains. Urns can come in a variety of sizes and materials, such as wood, marble or metal, and are typically found at funeral homes or online. You can also have a custom urn made to order.

Do I need special permission for scattering ashes?Yes, you may need permission from local authorities before scattering ashes in a public or private area. Laws and regulations vary by location, so it is important to research the specific requirements for the area you are scattering in.

What if I need to transport a deceased person?Many cremation services offer transportation for the deceased, either directly from their home or from a medical facility. It is important to make arrangements ahead of time and ensure that the correct paperwork is provided. In some cases, additional permits may be required.

Can I witness the cremation?Some cremation services offer the opportunity for family members to witness the cremation process if desired. It is important to enquire about this option when planning, as not all services provide it.

Do I need a casket for cremation?No, a casket is not required for cremation. However, some families may choose to rent a casket for the visitation or memorial service, and then have the deceased transferred to an alternative container prior to cremation.

Can I view the ashes after cremation?Yes, it is possible to view cremated remains if desired. Many funeral homes and cremation services can arrange for family members to view the cremated remains in a private setting.  Additionally, some cremation services may offer a witness viewing of the cremation. 

What is the difference between cremation and burial?Cremation is an alternative to traditional ground burial, where the body is incinerated rather than buried in a coffin. During cremation, the body is placed in an open casket and heated to extreme temperatures that reduce it to ashes. Burial involves placing the deceased in a closed casket and burying it in the ground. The burial process is typically more expensive, but involves less paperwork than cremation. Additionally, traditional burials allow for memorialization or visitation at the gravesite. Cremation does not involve these elements and gives families more flexibility with arranging services, either before or after the cremation has taken place.

What form of payment do you accept?We accept cash, check and all major credit cards. We also work with funeral homes to provide payment plans if needed. We will be happy to discuss your options with you in order to make the process as easy and affordable as possible.

ConclusionA loss of a loved one is difficult. We are here to help guide you through every step of arranging a meaningful farewell and honoring their life in respectful ways.  Our experienced staff can provide personalized services tailored to your family’s individual needs and preferences. During this time, we are focused on delivering peace of mind with our compassionate services, transparent pricing, flexible payment options and an organized plan that will make things easier during these difficult moments. With us by your side, you'll be able to focus entirely on what matters – celebrating the wonderful memories shared together as well as paying tribute to those no longer around.

If you have any questions about planning or having a cremation service, contact Us Today! 

Serving The Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, Arvada, Colorado Springs, Westminster, Thornton, Broomfiel, Boulder, Northglenn, Lafayette, Golden, Centennial, Castle Rock, Parker, littleton, Englewood, Louisville, Superior, Wheat Ridge, Erie, Ken Caryl, Columbine, Brighton Areas.