66 Questions to Ask a Funeral Home About Cremation

Cremation is becoming increasingly popular, but for many, it’s still an unfamiliar procedure. If you’re considering cremation for yourself or a loved one, you may want to ask the funeral home director a few questions to get a better understanding of the process.

66 Questions to ask the funeral home about cremation:

What cremation options do the funeral home offer?
What’s the difference between a direct cremation and a traditional cremation?
How long does the cremation process take?
How much does a cremation cost?
Are there any hidden fees associated with a cremation?
What type of container is required for cremation?
Can I provide my own container for the cremation?
What type of funeral service can take place if I choose cremation?
Can the entire funeral service be held at the funeral home?
Where will the ashes be stored after cremation?
How long after the funeral service will I receive the ashes?
Can I scatter the ashes?
Are there any restrictions on where I can scatter the ashes?
Will someone from the funeral home be present when the ashes are scattered?
Can I keep the ashes at my home?
Are there any special considerations if I choose to keep the ashes at my home?
What do I need to do if I want to bury the ashes?
Are there any special considerations if I want to bury the ashes in a cemetery without a columbarium?
Can I take the ashes with me if I travel?
Are there any special considerations if I want to take the ashes out of state or out of the country?
Are there any special instructions I need to follow?
What steps need to be followed during cremation?
Can I be present when the body is placed in the cremation chamber?
Can I observe the cremation?
What happens if I change my mind after the body is placed in the chamber?
Will I receive my loved one’s ashes after the cremation?
How long will it take for me to receive the ashes after cremation?
What can I do with the ashes?
Can more than one person be cremated at a time?
How do I know I’m receiving my loved one’s ashes and not another person’s?
What are some of the benefits of choosing cremation over burial?
Are there any disadvantages to cremation over burial?
Is there anything else I should know about cremation?
How long has the funeral home been in business?
Is the funeral home family-owned or is it part of a national chain?
What are the funeral home’s hours of operation?
Do you need to make an appointment to speak with a funeral home employee?
What’s the funeral home’s policy on pre-need arrangements?
What’s your relationship with the local crematory?
Can the funeral home perform the cremation even if the deceased resides out of state?
What does the cremation process entail?
Can family members be present during cremation?
Does the funeral home provide containers for the cremation?
If so, what’s the cost?
Can the ashes be scattered on private property or in a public place?
What are my transport options for taking the ashes out of state or overseas?
Can I add personal items to be cremated with my loved one’s body (e.g., jewelry or memorabilia)?
How do I know I will receive my loved one’s ashes after they are cremated?
What type of identification procedures and/or paperwork is required?
What are the cremation rates?
What options are available for the cremation?
How do I choose a funeral home for a cremation?
How do I make arrangements for a cremation?
Can I view the body before or after the cremation?
Do I need to purchase a casket for the cremation?
How long will it take for the ashes to be ready after cremation?
Are there any religious restrictions on cremation?
What are the options for disposing of the cremated remains?
How can family members be involved in the cremation process?
Can the funeral home accommodate special requests?
What’s the average time from death to cremation?
Is there a difference in cost if we want to be present at the cremation?
What are some of the most popular ways to memorialize a loved one who’s been cremated?
What are some of the most popular ways to scatter ashes?
What are some common misconceptions about cremation that you’ve heard?
Do you have any advice for families considering cremation for their loved ones?

Frequently Asked Questions

What gets removed before cremation?

The funeral home will remove any medical devices implanted in the deceased, such as a pacemaker. Prosthetic devices, such as artificial hips or knees, are also removed. If the person had dentures, those will be removed as well. Finally, the funeral home removes any metal objects, such as jewelry or coins, from the person’s body.

How many hours does it take to cremate a body?

Cremating a body usually takes about three to four hours. The cremation process begins by placing the body in the cremation chamber, where it’s exposed to intense heat and flames. To ensure that the body is cremated evenly, the chamber is constantly rotated. After cremation, the ashes are removed from the chamber and placed in an urn.

What are the pros and cons of cremation?

Cremation is considered a cheaper, more environmentally friendly, and faster alternative to traditional burial. Cremation usually takes two to three hours, as opposed to the several days that a funeral can take

However, cremation does have some drawbacks. Cremated remains aren’t as durable as remains that have been buried and can be scattered by wind or rain. In addition, many people find the idea of cremating a loved one unsettling.

Conclusion

We hope this list of questions has been helpful as you consider your options for cremation. Although these questions should serve as a starting point, you shouldn’t only ask these questions, but also any others that come to mind.

Remember that price is always a major consideration when you’re making an important decision, and funeral services are no exception. However, cheaper doesn’t always mean better quality.

Take your time, do your research and ask for recommendations from friends or relatives who’ve had experience with funeral homes in your area. Only then can you make an informed decision about which funeral home is right for you and your needs.