“Direct Cremation” what does it mean?

Have you seen the phrase direct cremation and didn’t know exactly what it meant? Direct cremation is an industry term that is becoming more common on the internet, in advertisements and other public resources. Hospitals and hospices are starting to use the term more often as they discuss end-of-life options with families. The phrase direct cremation and its definition came from the Federal Trade Commission Funeral Rule that went into effect on April 30, 1984. In fact, it is as straightforward as it sounds. It is a minimal service option that includes: basic services of funeral director and staff; a proportionate share of overhead costs; removal of remains; transportation to crematory; necessary authorizations and cremation.

In a direct cremation, there are no visitation or funeral ceremonies before the cremation process takes place. Normally, the body is brought to the funeral home or crematory just long enough to secure the death certificate and/or cremation permit and allow for the next of kin to sign the cremation authorization form. It doesn’t involve embalming or restorative art (hair, makeup, etc.). Many times, unless the family purchases one, there isn’t even a casket. A cremation container (also called alternative container) is used for the body instead. The cremated remains are then returned to the family in an urn of their choosing. Some families will later decide to scatter the cremains at a favorite location, bury them in a cemetery plot, or store them in an urn on the living room mantle.

So what kinds of families choose direct cremation and why?

The truth of the matter is all kinds of people choose cremation from all different backgrounds for a variety of different reasons. Often people are looking for the simplicity and flexibility that cremation can provide. No elaborate ceremony with a procession through town involving funeral home staff, church staff, escorts, musicians and pallbearers, etc. Timing is another big factor. Cremation can free up the time frame to plan a meaningful remembrance to the life of a loved one and time to coordinate dates that work for a greater number of people, while allowing time for everyone to make the necessary travel arrangements. Often, it is used by relatives who want their loved one’s final remains taken a long distance – to another state or even another country. Realistically speaking, it is much less expensive to transport a small urn than a large casket. Other reasons may also include religious beliefs, environmental concerns, space availability at cemetery of choice, wanting to keep your loved one close always, and the simplicity of that is just what they want. Finally, there are significant financial reasons for choosing direct cremation. Direct cremation tends to be about 20-50% of the cost of a traditional funeral. Cremation is typically more affordable because permanent memorial and burial fees are not required, but are optional.

About Us.

Keep It Simple Cremation is the area’s premier cremation specialist. Our goal is to provide simple cremations and give the families we serve peace of mind and assurance that we are experts at what we do and will care for their loved one with respect and dignity. At Keep It Simple Cremation we understand the needs of people who want the option of cremation but prefer to not have to go through a traditional funeral home. We offer complete cremation services that include planning simple, economical and dignified cremation arrangements. We also offer cremation services at a significantly lower cost compared to traditional mortuary and cemetery options. Keep It Simple Cremation does not sell caskets or provide memorial services which eliminates up-selling.

When the need arises, we’d be honored to be of service to you. If you’d like additional information or would like one of our qualified staff to visit with you, please feel free to contact us at your convenience.