Funeral Celebrant or Funeral Director: Which do you need?

As funeral celebrants have become more popular, many people are left wondering why they need a funeral director if they have a celebrant and vice versa. The answer is simple… it depends.

Think about a traditional funeral where the funeral director handles details such as taking care of the body, transporting the deceased, and various other tasks. But then, your clergy member takes care of the ceremony. Working with a celebrant is similar to that. The funeral director takes care of the logistical and practical considerations, and the celebrant works with the family to create the ceremony. That’s not to say that funeral directors never handle the officiating duties. It just means that it’s not always that way.

Historically, most funerals have been framed around religious ceremonies and rituals led by clergy members. Over time, society has become more diverse and, in some areas, less spiritual. With this shift, families have looked for alternatives to faith-based ways to commemorate the lives of their loved ones.

That’s where the funeral celebrant comes in. These trained professionals work with the family to design the perfect funeral or memorial service. Their key focus is on making the ceremony personal. Of course, many celebrants are also pastors and religious advisors, so using a celebrant doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t incorporate spiritual components. It just means you now have another alternative in choosing who you want to officiate the funeral.

For a more thorough explanation of how funeral directors and celebrants work, click here.

Want to learn more about funeral celebrants? Explore these articles.

• Using Funeral Celebrants: A Growing Movement
• Funeral Celebrants and Funeral Officiants: Creating Personalized Ceremonies
• Request our Guide to Using a Funeral Celebrant

What is Day of the Dead?

Each year, as Halloween rolls around, we see more and more references to the Day of the Dead. But what exactly is this commemoration all about?

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a colorful and significant Mexican holiday that celebrates the memory of loved ones who have died. The holiday is typically celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, dates coinciding with the Catholic holidays of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

Day of the Dead is not a somber occasion but a joyous celebration of life and death. It reflects the belief that the spirits of the departed continue to exist in the afterlife and can be reunited with the living during this special time. It is a unique blend of indigenous Aztec traditions and Catholic influences, creating a rich cultural celebration that has gained recognition and popularity beyond Mexico’s borders.

During the Day of the Dead, families come together with their community to honor and remember those who are no longer with them. This is done through a combination of festive and solemn traditions, including creating colorful altars or “ofrendas” adorned with marigold flowers, candles, incense, food, and drink. These ofrendas are meant to welcome the spirits of the deceased back to the living world.

As part of the tradition, families often clean and decorate the graves of the deceased, often with marigold petals and sugar skulls, and they may spend the night there, sharing stories and memories of the departed. There are parades, musical performances, and artistic displays featuring intricate sugar skulls and decorative skeletons, known as “calacas” and “calaveras.”

So, this year, as you notice the unique decorations and references to Day of the Dead, you’ll know what it’s all about.

EstateExec is designed to help everyday people with the job of the estate executor. The company offers a software program that provides automated guidance and financial accounting specifically for estate management.

To learn more about EstateExec and how it can help you with your executor duties, visit their site by clicking here.

Teraloom offers ash scattering memorials at sea and on land. Events can be personalized with a meaningful location, date, time, officiant, flowers, and more. As part of the service, Teraloom secures all necessary permits, makes the arrangements, and takes care of logistics.

To learn more about what Teraloom offers in your region, click here.

RESOURCES TO HELP YOU WITH PLAN A FUNERAL:

How to Make Funeral Arrangements
Buying Funeral and Memorial Products
How to Plan a Funeral
Plan Your Funeral Before You Need It

DON’T HAVE A FUNERAL PLAN YET?
Why not take a few minutes to get started today? TRY THE PLANNER

ALREADY HAVE A FUNERAL PLAN?
Take a few minutes to make sure it’s up-to-date. GO TO YOUR PLAN

Funeralwise.com is the place to go on the web for everything you need to know about funerals. Whether planning a funeral or attending one, we will provide straightforward answers to your questions and step-by-step instructions to guide you on your way.

The post Funeral Director or Celebrant appeared first on Funeralwise.

Summer 2023

As if planning the funeral weren’t enough, once the arrangements have been made and the service has taken place, there is still a lot to consider, especially if you are named as the estate executor.

If you are thinking about your own funeral arrangements or helping a loved one, it can be extremely helpful to family and friends to keep in mind what happens after the funeral.

Our page, After the Funeral: What You Need To Do, is packed with helpful information on the steps to take once the funeral is behind you. If you have a funeral plan with us, remember that the Complete Version has helpful to-do lists that can be accessed by you or the Plan Guardians you have designated.

If you have questions on what happens post-funeral or any other funeral-related questions, email us at support@funeralwise.com.

>>Read More: After The Funeral

EstateExec.com — Help with Estate Execution

From time to time, we work closely with companies specializing in areas related to the funeral industry and are complementary to the information and services we offer. One such company is EstateExec.com. EstateExec is designed to help everyday people with the job of the estate executor. The company offers a software program that provides automated guidance and financial accounting specifically for estate management.

To learn more about EstateExec and how it can help you with your executor duties, visit their site by clicking here.

Teraloom — Unique Memorialization Ceremonies

With the increased popularity of cremation, so too has the demand for more personalized and unique scattering ceremonies. Teraloom, a company based in Colorado, has set out to offer scattering services in the destinations of your dreams.

Teraloom offers ash scattering memorials at sea and on land. Events can be personalized with a meaningful location, date, time, officiant, flowers, and more. As part of the service, Teraloom secures all necessary permits, makes the arrangements, and takes care of logistics.

To learn more about Teraloom, click here.

What’s a Funeral Celebrant?

Funeral celebrants (or funeral officiants) are professionals who work with families to design custom personalized funerals and memorial ceremonies. The celebrant’s role is to make sure that the ceremony reflects the deceased’s personality, culture, values, and wishes.

Learn More About Working With a Funeral Celebrant

Request our Guide to Working With a Funeral Celebrant

DON’T HAVE A FUNERAL PLAN YET?
Why not take a few minutes to get started today? TRY THE PLANNER

ALREADY HAVE A FUNERAL PLAN?
Take a few minutes to make sure it’s up-to-date. GO TO YOUR PLAN

Funeralwise.com is the place to go on the web for everything you need to know about funerals. Whether planning a funeral or attending one, we will provide straightforward answers to your questions and step-by-step instructions to guide you on your way.

The post After The Funeral appeared first on Funeralwise.

September 2022

PREPAID CREMATION PLANS
Prepaid cremation plans allow you to pay for cremation before you need it. In addition to the actual cremation, you can pay in advance for other elements, such as a memorial service or celebration of life. Prepaid plans are available for the full range of cremation services–from simple direct cremation (no service, remains returned to family) to a full traditional funeral with visitation before cremation.
In most cases, you will contract directly with a funeral home or cremation provider for the services you want. Depending on your chosen service provider, you can arrange to pay for services in one lump sum or a series of installments. One of the most popular methods for paying for a cremation in advance is to take out an insurance policy that will be used at your death to cover the costs of the services you purchase.

More about Prepaid Cremation Plans

If you think a prepaid cremation plan might be right for you, our Preplanning Specialists can help you decide. They can also help you find the right financial tool to fund your plan. To start, click the button below and complete the brief information request. A Specialist will get back to you with more info. Email us at support@funeralwise.com if you already have a plan with us and would like to learn more.

LET’S GET STARTED

FROM OUR MAILBAG: SECOND RITE OF INTERMENT
We get a wide variety of questions in the Forums section of our website. One question we’ve been getting a lot recently is, “Why does the cemetery want to charge me for burying two urns in the same space?”
The fact is, when you buy a burial space, you don’t purchase the land. What you buy is the right to bury the remains of one body in the space. That is called a “Right of Interment.” So when you want to bury two sets of remains, whether two urns or an urn and a casket, you must pay for the Second Right of Interment to cover the additional remains.

>>Read What is the Second Right of Interment in our Forums.

TALKING ABOUT YOUR FUNERAL
Our last issue highlighted the importance of discussing your funeral plans with your loved ones. It’s an important issue, so we want to ensure you didn’t miss our article. After all, your plan doesn’t do much good if no one knows about it.
Having the talk is not always easy, though. Our article features helpful tips on how to get started and things to consider.

>>Learn More About Having the Talk

SCATTERING ASHES
People are often surprised to hear that there’s more to scattering ashes than just tossing them to the wind.

Once you decide where to scatter, you should ensure it’s legal to scatter in your chosen spot. Choose an appropriate container. Consider wind conditions–everyone stand upwind!

>>More About Scattering

INSURANCE RESOURCES
While many people know us for our planning expertise, Funeralwise also specializes in funeral, burial, and cremation insurance.

Whether you are looking for basic information or are ready to buy, we can help you make the right decision for you and your family.

Our insurance pages are rich with information to help answer your questions and sort through your choices.

>>Learn More About Funeral Insurance

GIVING GIFT BASKETS
Sending a gift basket to express your sympathy is a thoughtful and practical way to let someone who is grieving know you are thinking about them. In some cultures, giving food items is preferred over flowers and other gifts.
You can purchase a gift basket directly through our store by clicking on the link at the bottom of the page. The link takes you to Design It Yourself Gift Baskets, for which we are an affiliate.

>>VISIT DIY Gift Baskets

DON’T HAVE A FUNERAL PLAN YET?
Why not take a few minutes to get started today? TRY THE PLANNER

ALREADY HAVE A FUNERAL PLAN?
Take a few minutes to make sure it’s up-to-date. GO TO YOUR PLAN

Funeralwise.com is the place to go on the web for everything you need to know about funerals. Whether you are planning a funeral or attending one, we will provide you with straightforward answers to your questions and step-by-step instructions to guide you on your way.

The post Prepaid Cremation Plans appeared first on Funeralwise.

It’s not surprising that consumers have a lot of questions when it comes to funeral costs. To help you answer these questions, we’ve prepared the following Frequently Asked Questions.

If you’d like more information on funeral costs or a page where your clients can get more information on costs, visit our Funeral Costs pages.

How much does an average funeral cost?

The most recent price survey by the National Funeral Directors Association showed that the median cost of a traditional funeral and burial is over $9,000. A traditional funeral includes a viewing. These costs do not include cemetery costs. A typical burial plot will be between $1,000 to $3,000, and the cemetery interment could cost $1,000 to $2,000. A simple grave marker and installation could easily cost another $1,000. In addition, an honorarium is typically paid to the officiating clergy. Other extra costs include the cost of a newspaper obituary, death certificates, and perhaps flowers. Considering all these costs, a traditional funeral with a burial can easily cost as much as $15,000. Of course, the exact price will depend on the funeral home and cemetery you choose, what you include in your service, and the price of the merchandise you select. Learn more on our funeral cost page.

What is the way to get the cheapest funeral cost?

One of the ways you can reduce the funeral cost is to limit items such as visitation. For example, you may be able to pay less if you have a brief visitation on the day of the funeral rather than holding it the day before. You can also reduce the cost by selecting a less expensive casket and burial vault. We estimate that for a no-frills traditional funeral with the casket present, you may get your cost down to around $6,000 to $7,000. A memorial service or graveside service can be arranged for $5,000 to $6,000. You can reduce your costs further by choosing cremation over burial. Keep in mind that these costs exclude cemetery costs. The absolute cheapest funeral is a direct burial or direct cremation, which includes no ceremonies. You can request our Guide to an Affordable Funeral for tips on reducing funeral costs.

How much does an average cremation cost?

The most recent price survey by the National Funeral Directors Association showed that the median cost of a traditional funeral and cremation is approximately $7,000. A traditional funeral includes a viewing. Many people do not realize you can have a traditional funeral and visitation followed by a cremation. Cremation caskets and rental caskets are available for traditional funerals before cremation. More commonly, people choose to have a memorial service after the cremation, which can cost between $4,000 to $6,000. There are many options for where to hold a memorial service that can reduce costs. A direct cremation (no funeral service) can cost as little as $1,000. The body is delivered to the crematory with a direct cremation, and the remains are returned to the family. Visit our cremation pages to learn more.

How much does a casket cost?

Caskets come in a wide range of materials and designs. A good quality casket would be somewhere between $3,000 to $4,000. If you are buying through a funeral home, you may be able to purchase a basic casket for about $1,500. If you shop online, you may be able to find one for even less. At the high end, you can easily spend $10,000 or more. For more information on casket prices and quality, visit our Caskets page.

How much does a burial plot cost?

A typical burial plot will probably cost between $1,000 to $3,000. The actual cost depends on where you live, how many cemeteries are in your area, and what part of the cemetery you choose. For example, a prime space at the top of a hill overlooking a valley may be more expensive than a flat space in a memorial garden. Interment in a mausoleum crypt can easily cost $2,000 to $3,000 more than a burial plot.

Is cremation cheaper than burial?

Cremation can be much more economical than in-ground burial. A traditional funeral with burial costs upwards of $10,000, and cremation with a memorial service can cost thousands less. However, deciding whether to be cremated is very personal and depends on your faith, traditions, and other factors. For more information, visit our Cremation pages to help you decide what is right for you.

How can I pay for a funeral if I don’t have any money?

Finding the money to pay for a funeral can be difficult if the deceased and their family have not planned ahead. There are places you can get help. Some states and local municipalities have programs to help defray costs, and many financial tools can be used. Visit our Paying for a Funeral page for more information.

The post FAQ: About Funeral Costs appeared first on Funeralwise.

The following Frequently Asked Questions were designed to reply to the funeral insurance questions we get from consumers most often.

We’re sure you also hear similar questions when you are working with clients. In fact, you may even be wondering what the answers are to some of these.

If you’d like more information on the funeral insurance we offer the general public, we encourage you to visit our Funeral Insurance page.

What is funeral insurance?

Funeral, burial, and final expense insurance are all names for small life insurance policies ($3,000-$40,000). These policies cover the cost of final expenses, such as funeral products and services. For more details on these specialized policies, check out our Guide to Buying Funeral Insurance.

How is preneed insurance different from funeral insurance?

PreNeed insurance is similar to funeral insurance but is tied to a preneed contract with a funeral service provider. A preneed contract is a statement of goods and services contract you sign with a funeral service provider when purchasing preneed funeral insurance. It itemizes the specific funeral services and products you selected for your funeral. For more information, visit our page on preneed contracts.

Do I need funeral insurance?

The most crucial benefit of funeral insurance is financial security for your family. According to the 2021 General Price List Survey by the National Funeral Directors Association, the median cost of a traditional funeral was $9,420. This number doesn’t even include cemetery costs. A traditional funeral can easily cost $10,000 or more. Covering funeral costs is a heavy financial burden for most people, especially if it comes unexpectedly and at a stressful time. Having a funeral insurance policy protects your family against this financial hardship. It also avoids the added stress of paying for final expenses while dealing with their grief. To learn more, visit our How to Shop for Funeral Insurance page.

How much funeral insurance do I need?

The value of your policy will depend on the type of funeral service and burial you anticipate having. Most funeral insurance policies range from $3,000-$40,000. A small, simple service or cremation will cost less than a more elaborate service so you won’t need as large a policy. Preplanning is the best way to estimate how much money you need to have available for funeral costs. Our Wise Planning System can help you determine the cost of the type of funeral service you have in mind.

How much does funeral insurance cost?

The cost of funeral insurance depends on factors such as age, health, how much coverage you request, and the type of policy you choose. A guaranteed issue policy will not take health into consideration so the cost may be somewhat higher than for a medically underwritten policy. If you select an underwritten policy, the price depends on your unique situation. For example, the premiums for someone who is age 55 and does not smoke will likely be lower than for a 70-year-old smoker. Requesting a quote is the best way to determine precisely how much your premiums will be.

Do the proceeds from my funeral insurance have to be used for funeral expenses?

It depends on the type of policy you have. Once the holder of a final expense insurance policy dies, the beneficiaries can use the funds however they desire. The funds are usually used as intended, but you should choose your beneficiary carefully. Ensure that the people you want to care for your final farewell know what you want. If you have a preneed insurance contract, the proceeds will go directly to the funeral home where you have made your arrangements.

How can I save money on funeral insurance?

It’s important to remember that funeral insurance is highly regulated, and discounts are not offered on policy rates. If you find something that looks too good to be true, you probably need to look at it more closely. It probably isn’t what you want or need. You can use strategies to lower your premiums, such as scaling back your service or locking in today’s prices through a preneed contract. We highly recommend creating a funeral plan to help you consider what products and services you need. Visit our page on funeral costs to learn more about how much money you need to set aside.

Where can I buy funeral insurance?

You can purchase a funeral insurance policy through an insurance agent or a funeral service provider such as a funeral home. Some insurance companies sell the policies directly as well. Many people prefer to use an agent since it gives them a more personalized way to get customer service. There are many online sources for funeral insurance. We have a network of licensed Preplanning Specialists who would be happy to help you with your funeral planning and provide a free, no-obligation quote.

Do I need to talk to an insurance agent?

You can get a quote online, but it is always best to talk with an agent to ask questions, get clarifications, and ensure you understand precisely what you are buying. One good strategy is to request a quote online and then talk with an agent. This way, you can be confident you are getting the best policy at the best price. An independent agent (also called a broker) is typically self-employed and represents a variety of companies. An exclusive agent represents only one company and may be an employee of the company they represent. Our network of Preplanning Specialists are licensed insurance agents who can help you with your funeral planning and provide a free, no-obligation quote.

What kind of funeral insurance do I need?

The type of insurance that is right for you will depend on your circumstances. The goal is to have a policy that will provide enough money to fund your funeral and burial. Most people find that a relatively small whole-life policy will suit their needs. It is always a good idea to consult your financial advisor to get a definitive answer on what the outlook for your end-of-life situation will be. To learn more about the types of funeral insurance available, check out our Guide to Buying Funeral Insurance.

What is the difference between “Whole Life” and “Term” insurance?

“Whole Life” generally refers to “Ordinary Whole Life,” an insurance policy that will stay in force for the length of your life as long as you pay the premiums. Most whole-life funeral insurance policies are “ordinary” whole life. A “Term” life insurance policy runs for a selected time period, typically 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, or 30 years. Being aware of your policy type is essential since the beneficiary payment will only occur if the insured dies within the specified period. Be sure to read the fine print if you are considering a final expense or burial insurance policy to ensure it is a whole-life policy. Because if it is a term policy and you die after the expiration period, there will be no funds to cover funeral expenses.

Do I need funeral insurance if I have life insurance?

Many people choose to purchase funeral insurance as a supplement to life insurance. Funeral insurance will protect your estate from being depleted by your final expenses. One key advantage of funeral insurance is that it pays out more quickly than regular life insurance. Even if you have a sizable estate or significant life insurance, your loved ones may not have the cash to cover your funeral expenses. Remember, most funeral service companies require that you pay at the time of service.

Does health insurance or Medicare cover funeral costs?

No. Health insurance and Medicare are specifically for health coverage; they do not pay for funeral expenses. If you are looking for insurance coverage, you need some type of life insurance policy, such as funeral insurance, that pays out upon your death.

How do I choose a funeral insurance company?

What insurance company to buy from is essential since the wrong choice can leave you empty-handed. The short answer is that you should only buy from a top-rated company. One good source for insurance company ratings is A.M. Best. This highly regarded company offers independent analysis regarding company stability and the ability to meet financial obligations. If you choose an insurance company with an A.M. Best top rating (AA through A), you can feel reasonably confident that you are making a good choice.

How do I apply for funeral insurance?

How you apply depends on the company from which you are buying. For some, you can apply by phone or fill out a form. For others, you can apply online. Generally, you will request a no-obligation quote and wait for a reply. A good approach is to request a quote online and then talk with an agent. This way, you can be confident you are getting the best policy at the best price. Our network of Preplanning Specialists are licensed insurance agents who can help you with your funeral planning and provide a free, no-obligation quote.

Will my premium change?

If you purchase a policy with “level premiums,” your premiums will not change over the policy’s life. Price is based on the policy value, your age, and health at the time of purchase. The “premium” is the price you pay for your life insurance policy. You make the payments monthly, quarterly, or annually. Prices vary between insurers and types of policies, so be sure to shop around or speak with a licensed agent.

Can my funeral insurance be canceled?

Usually, your policy cannot be canceled unless you stop paying your premiums. The policy will automatically terminate if you don’t pay for any reason. If you choose to cancel, certain whole-life policies have a cash value. Be sure to know what you are buying.

How long do funeral insurance policies last?

If you have a whole-life funeral insurance policy and pay your premiums on time, your policy will last until you pass away. The beneficiary will receive a cash payout of the policy’s value at your death. If you have a term funeral insurance policy and pass away before the term’s expiration, your beneficiary will receive a cash payout upon your death. If the term passes before your death, then, unfortunately, there will be no payout. In most cases, the insurance company can only cancel your policy if you stop paying your premiums.

Who should I choose as my beneficiary?

Your beneficiary is the person or persons you designate as the recipient of a life insurance claim proceeds. In the case of final expense insurance, the person you designate as the beneficiary can decide not to use the funds to pay for the funeral, so be sure to select a person you trust to carry out your wishes. You should also ensure that whoever you choose is fully aware of your wishes. Our Wise Planning System is an excellent way to share your wishes with your beneficiaries and family members.

What is a Graded Death Benefit?

“Graded” refers to the reduced death benefit payable if the policyholder’s death occurs within the policy’s early years. Graded Death Benefit provisions are typically found in guaranteed issue policies. For example, a policy may only pay out the premiums paid to date if death occurs within the first year or two. The death benefit will be an increasing percentage of the face amount until the policy matures to usually the third year.

What are “Stepped Premiums?”

Stepped premiums are insurance premiums that are recalculated (generally once a year) to determine if the level of risk warrants a higher (or lower) premium. Age is generally the determining factor. On the other hand, level premiums are insurance premiums that do not change from month to month as you get older but are locked in at a specific rate. We recommend purchasing a level premium policy to cover your funeral and final expenses.

What is a “Funeral Service Provider?”

The term “Funeral Service Provider” generally refers to a funeral home. It may also refer to a funeral director, a cremation service, or other professionals who provide services to the funeral industry. For help selecting a funeral service provider, visit our Find Services directories.

What is the difference between a guaranteed issue policy and an underwritten policy?

With guaranteed issue policies, almost everyone is accepted regardless of age or medical history. You sometimes hear these policies called “Guaranteed Acceptance Life Insurance.” These policies are generally more expensive than underwritten policies because there are no health questions. Guaranteed-issue policies typically have graded death benefit provisions that reduce the death benefit within the first few years of the policy. With an underwritten policy, the insurance company evaluates your medical history to determine if it will accept the policy. Medical underwriting may also be used to determine the price of the policy.

How do I find the best funeral insurance policy for me?

We think a step-by-step approach is the best way to find a funeral insurance policy to meet your needs. To learn more about the types of funeral insurance available, check out our Guide to Buying Funeral Insurance.

The post FAQ: About Funeral Insurance appeared first on Funeralwise.

If you have just started your search for a cremation urn, then you may be surprised by the wide variety of options available. There are truly urns for every taste and budget, from simple wooden boxes to hand-polished marble.

The wide variety of selections can be overwhelming, especially if you are deciding at a difficult time. Luckily, there are questions you can ask yourself to start narrowing down your choices.

How to Buy A Cremation Urn: Narrowing Down Your Choices

1. What style of urn do you want?
   You want to make sure that the urn you select reflects the wishes and tastes of the deceased and their loved ones. A biodegradable urn might be best if the deceased was concerned about the environment. You probably don’t want an overly ornate version if the person you are buying for had simple tastes. Chances are, you’ll know which urn is perfect when you see it, but keeping the personality of the deceased can help make the process more personal.
2. What is your budget?
   It may be hard to think of terms of money when choosing an urn to honor a loved one, but urns are available in a wide variety of price ranges. Deciding how much you want to spend before you start looking can help you narrow down your choices significantly.
3. Where will the remains be stored?
   If you place your urn in a mausoleum, the funeral home or cemetery can provide you with any specifications you need to consider when you make your selection. In some cases, the urn must be no larger than a specific size and made of certain materials. A “Green” cemetery may require that your urn be made of biodegradable materials. If the urn is buried at a cemetery, you must purchase an urn vault. The vault will protect the urn and keep the ground around it from collapsing. If you keep the urn at home, you will need to think about where you will store it: will it be indoors or out, and will it be buried? If you plan to bury the urn at home, be sure to check your local laws to make sure that this is permitted.
4. Will you be traveling with the remains?
   The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has special requirements for transporting urns. For example, urns must be able to be x-ray scannable. In addition, some airlines have guidelines for transporting cremated remains. Be sure to check with your carrier before you travel. It may make sense to purchase a temporary urn that meets TSA and airline requirements and then transfer the remains to something more permanent once you get home. (Click here to go to the TSA blog page that discusses traveling with cremated remains.)
5. Will you inter all the remains, or will you distribute them among others?
   Your crematory can provide you with an estimate of how much cremains will be returned to you. This can help you decide how large you would like your urn to be. If you will distribute the cremains between others, you may prefer to buy several smaller urns.
6. Will you scatter the ashes?
   Scattering ashes can be a bit more complicated than it seems. Wind and weather conditions can complicate things. Depending on where you plan to scatter the ashes, you may want to purchase a specially designed container for this purpose. Learn more about Scattering Ashes.
7. Would you like your urn personalized?
   There are many options when it comes to personalizing your container. Many urns have a place for a photo or some other tribute to your loved one. Perhaps you would like to commemorate a special hobby or profession. There are also options available for couples, pets, and infants.
8. How do you want to receive the ashes?
   The crematorium will return the ashes in a plastic bag. The bag will be placed in a container of some kind. If you have purchased an urn, you can provide it to them in advance of the cremation, and they will return the ashes in your urn. Otherwise, the ashes will be returned in a temporary urn. Since the ashes are in a plastic bag, they can be easily moved to a permanent urn later. Your funeral director will be happy to help you handle and transfer the ashes. Also, see our article on sealing cremation urns.
9. What size urn should you buy?
   Use the 1 to 1 rule of thumb. It is important that the urn you select is the right size to hold the ashes. The capacity of urns is measured in cubic inches. The general rule is 1 cubic inch of urn capacity for each pound of body weight prior to death. For example, the ashes of a 175 lb. man would need an urn of 175 cubic inches or more. Likewise, the ashes of a 25 lb. pet would require an urn of 25 cubic inches or more. If the ashes are being shared among family members, smaller keepsake urns are a good option and you can use the 1 cubic inch to 1 lb. rule of thumb when purchasing these smaller urns. Some people choose to place keepsakes of their loved one in the urn along with the ashes. You’ll need to account for the space that any keepsakes will require.

The important thing is that you should take your time, consider all your options, and remember that you do not have to purchase through the funeral home or crematory. There are many online vendors. We recommend that you visit our store to see what we have to offer. We carry a variety of styles and prices.

Cremation Urns Come In All Shapes and Sizes

From classic traditional urns to more modern takes, you may be surprised by the number of options available to you. There are burial urns available to meet every taste and style. Despite the variety, urns fall into two basic categories: permanent and non-permanent. The main difference is that permanent urns do not degrade over time. Non-permanent urns, also referred to as biodegradable, will decompose. Whether or not an urn is permanent or biodegradable depends on the material it is made of.

Permanent Urns

Permanent urns are typically glass, hardwood, metal, ceramic, bronze, or marble. You can find them in hundreds of styles. In addition to traditional urns, examples of the types of permanent memorial urns for storage of cremation remains are:

• Sports themed urns
• Military themed urns
• Hobby themed urns
• Religious themed urns
• Art themed urns
• Photo urns
• Memento urns
• Urns for travel

You can select a permanent urn based on its material or style; you can also find urns suitable for interring the remains of two people who want to share their final resting place. These are called companion urns.

If you are looking for an urn to memorialize the untimely death of a child, you may want to investigate cremation urns specifically designed for infant or child remains. If you plan to divide the remains among friends or family members, you can choose from various small keepsake cremation urns designed for this purpose.

Personalized Cremation Urns

If you are looking for a cremation urn that is a little less traditional, you may opt for something more unusual such as a teddy bear that includes storage for remains or an hourglass that holds your loved one’s ashes rather than sand. Despite the number of options available when it comes to permanent burial urns, sometimes the best choice is to have an urn specially designed to fit the personality of your loved one or the style of the space where it will be stored. There are numerous personalization and customization options available.

Check out our “This is not your Grandmother’s Cremation Urn” post

Environmentally-Friendly Cremation Urns

Non-permanent urns are usually made of paper, but you may also find them made of salt, cornstarch, gelatin, or other degradable materials. Biodegradable urns are thought to be an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional urns since they don’t leave behind permanent materials and are becoming increasingly more popular. Biodegradable urns are available in designs suitable for display, burial, or scattering. There are also options for use in water burials. Some biodegradable urns may have seeds embedded in the paper to produce a tree or other plant after it decomposes. Others are designed as birdhouses. The choices are many and growing by the day.

With the number of options available, the job of selecting the perfect urn to honor your loved one can seem a daunting task. You can make the selection a bit easier by narrowing down your options.

SEALING CREMATION URNS — CREATING A PERMANENT CLOSURE

Whether or not to seal a cremation urn is a personal decision that depends on the type of urn, if it will be displayed or buried, and your unique circumstances. The sealing process is not complicated, but it can be surprisingly emotional. For many people, sealing the urn represents a final step in their loved one’s journey. With that in mind, it’s best to set aside some quiet time so that you can take it at your own pace.

Metal Urns

Most metal cremation urns have a threaded cap or removable disc covering the ash compartment. To create a permanent seal, add a small amount of clear silicone epoxy or metal glue to the threads before closing the lid. Take your time, and be sure to wipe away any overspill quickly.

Sealing cremation urns made of metal — bronze and brass, for example, is usually unnecessary. However, some people prefer the added sense of security that the glue can provide.

Ceramic or Glass Urns

Many ceramic and glass urns are designed with a cap that rests on the top of the urn’s body but is not threaded. To seal the lid to the urn, use a clear silicone sealant. The sealant will help provide water resistance and create a permanent airtight seal.

When sealing cremation urns made of ceramic or glass, carefully squeeze a thin bead of sealant around the cap, then place the lid back on the urn, gently pressing it into place. Be sure to follow the directions on the adhesive with regard to drying time. We recommend you let the sealant dry for 24  hours before handling it.

Sealants can be purchased at a big box store, hardware stores, online, and where ever home repair goods are sold. Avoid glues that expand or foam. While soap and water cleanup is not essential, it is a big bonus.

Wooden Urns

Most wood urns close in a box-like fashion or have a sliding panel at the bottom that is removable. There is no need to seal, but some people prefer to do so. Wood glue or glue designed for porous materials will work for this purpose. Just remember that you are creating a permanent seal, so if you change your mind, you may not be able to reopen the box.

See the urns recommended by Funeralwise:

SHOP OUR URN COLLECTION

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There are many elements to consider, and you will find pricing presented in many different ways. If you have a question that is not listed below and you haven’t found an answer on our funeral costs page, please let us know. We’ll try to help however we can.

Funeral Costs: Frequently Asked Questions

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By Guest Contributor Catherine Durkin Robinson

Catherine Durkin Robinson is the owner of Anitya Doula Services. She completed the End-of-Life Doula Program at the University of Vermont and is a member of the National End of Life Doula Alliance (NEDA).

Focus on LGBTQ Funeral Planning

Death is known as the great equalizer, but equality isn’t always afforded to the dead. Many end-of-life professionals still discriminate against members of the LGBTQ+ community. That’s why it’s important, especially if you identify as a gay, trans, queer, or non-binary individual, to know your rights while alive to protect yourself after death.

Your End-of-Life Wishes

Too many people wait until a serious diagnosis to get their affairs in order. It can be overwhelming and emotional. The best time to think about and plan for end-of-life is right now, before a terminal illness, while you’re thinking clearly and rationally.

What comes first? Picking the best advocate when you can no longer speak for yourself.

A key point in your LGBTQ funeral planning is choosing carefully when considering whom to put in charge of your affairs. Whether your “next of kin” is empowered to make decisions when you’re dead or still alive but can no longer communicate, you want someone you can trust.

If your spouse is supportive, that person will be in charge.  Otherwise, think carefully. Who in your life accepts your identity or sexuality? That’s the person who can help protect your wishes.

Establish an Advance Directive outlining your end-of-life wishes. Check your state’s requirements or contact an estate attorney to help create this document. Make sure your doctor, lawyer, and loved ones get a copy.

You can assign someone as a Durable Power of Attorney, a Health Care Proxy, and/or a Funeral Agent. Ideally, this person or persons will act according to your wishes.

Pre-Planning Funerals

Call at least three funeral homes, either where you live or where you want your body to go, and talk to them about their diversity and inclusion policies. Look specifically for established businesses either owned and operated by members or allies of the LGBTQ+ community.

Pre-planning your funeral or memorial service has several benefits that include:

• Establishing your wishes.
• Making sure they’re respected and followed.
• Paying for everything ahead of time.
• Eliminating the emotional burden on your loved ones who won’t need to go through the trouble of finding an inclusive funeral director because you’ve done that yourself.
• Also, easing financial burdens on next-of-kin. 

Your Obituary

While it may not seem a critical part of LGBTQ funeral planning, you should consider how you’d like your obituary to be written. It will be the formal announcement of your death and life that people read on websites, newspapers, and social media.

What do you want it to say?

You can always write it yourself and leave instructions for the funeral director to publish it after you die. Or perhaps you’d like to ask a professional writer, doula, lawyer, or trusted friend to write one instead. Talk to them about your name, pronouns, partners, and other ways to write your obituary properly.

Don’t leave it up to someone else to take care of this. If your family doesn’t accept your identity, you must take initiative to control the narrative and get your obituary written in a way that honors you. This includes anything you might want to keep private.

Plans for Your Body

Think about how you’d like your body washed and dressed after death. Discuss this with the funeral director and care team, so everyone understands how to proceed. You can also write these instructions in your will, pre-planning documents, and advance directives.

Do you want your body or cremains buried in a cemetery?

Many privately-owned cemeteries allow people to customize their grave markers. You don’t have to use your legal name or any other information that doesn’t correctly identify you. However, official documents in the cemetery’s office will include the death certificate, which will have your legal name.

Most cemeteries accept death certificates with different names than the marker. However, if you have time to legally change your name before death, please do so. It lessens the chance of problems in the future if all documents contain the same name.

If you don’t have time to legally change your name before death, make sure you find a cemetery that allows the marker to be customized. Also, ask about any marker restrictions that include colors, sizes, or shapes. You want to be laid to rest in a place that honors all of your wishes. 

What About National Cemeteries?

Thanks to the work of countless activists, laws have been passed to ensure that LGBTQ+ veterans are eligible to be buried in military or national cemeteries. However, you will need to secure the services of a funeral director to arrange these benefits. 

Depending on where you want to be buried, you may need to provide documentation about any name change and the proper discharge paperwork. If you are married, your spousal benefits are the same as any married couple. This includes life insurance, flag presentation, full military honors, and more.

X Gender Marker

If you have the “X” gender marker on an updated birth certificate, find out if your state recognizes it. This is especially important if you changed your birth certificate in a previous state of residence that recognized it, then moved somewhere that doesn’t.  

Contact your family attorney to avoid complications with any insurance claims or legal paperwork.

Put Everything in Writing

Many different kinds of families disagree with each other about end-of-life care and funeral plans. This is especially true with given or chosen families in the LGBTQ community. They might not support or even be aware of their loved one’s sexual orientation, gender identity, name, etc.

When making plans for this stage of life, and death, be open and honest with loved ones about what you want. These types of tender talks prevent arguments and disagreements when you’re gone.

Most importantly, create written legal documents with all of this information.

When someone dies, grieving loved ones might forget or feel too overcome with emotion to think rationally. Legally binding documents with clear instructions help everyone get on the same page. Include your end-of-life care plan, funeral decisions, and other specific wishes.

To learn more about funeral planning, visit our Wise Planning Page. Our Wise Planning System has various tools that can help you with whatever kind of funeral planning you need, whether it is LGBTQ funeral planning or planning for other types of communities.

Catherine Durkin Robinson was recently featured in an article in the Chicago Tribute. Click here to read the story.

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In preparing for the burial of the deceased, the family or other Muslim community members will clean and shroud the deceased’s body. The only time this is not performed is if the dead was a martyr. In that case, the deceased will be buried in the clothing in which he died.

The body is respectfully washed with clean, scented water, and then the body is wrapped in a kaftan, or clean, white burial shroud. This is done before the funeral prayer.

This sacred prayer is an essential part of the funeral tradition because if a person is buried without it, the entire Muslim community will incur a sin for neglecting this important obligation.

While the prayer may be said in the mosque, it is more customarily practiced outside the mosque. It is also acceptable to pray the Janazah prayer in a graveyard, but it is not permitted to utter other prayers there. The prayer can be said at some distance from the graves or in an area specifically dedicated to prayer. The prayer may also be said over the deceased’s grave if the person was buried before the prayer was performed.

The spoken words of the prayer incorporate a quiet reading of Al-Fatiha, then praying for Mohammed and reciting two supplications. The prayer is conducted when an Imam is present and facing toward the Qiblah.

Rewards for Prayer

Offering the funeral prayer comes with a reward for the person who says the prayer and the deceased. It is said that the person who says the prayer gains “one Qeerat of reward,” and the person who says the prayer and stays by the body until its burial will receive “two Qeerats of reward.”

Special Circumstances

Sometimes special circumstances surrounding the death of a Muslim make it impossible for another Muslim to pray the Janazah prayer over the body. In this particular case, performing the prayer elsewhere is sometimes considered acceptable.

Finality of Death

When someone dies, Muslims believe that everything is left behind. There are only three things that persist after death: charity given during a lifetime will continue to help others, people will continue to benefit from the knowledge, and a righteous child can still pray for the deceased.

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