End-of-life decisions are unique and deeply personal. Many factors affect whether you choose to be buried or cremated when you pass away, including faith, family tradition and financial position. The cost and process vary for each option, but establishing your end-of-life wishes (including purchasing final expense insurance) can help make things easier for your loved ones during the difficult process of planning a funeral or memorial. In this article, we’ll walk you through the difference between the cremation and burial process and the costs associated with each, as well as other considerations to keep in mind for your end-of-life plan.
What is the cremation process?
Cremation is the process of disposing of remains through burning. Unlike a traditional burial, cremated remains are not interred (placed in a grave or tomb), but are typically returned to the deceased’s family to be kept or scattered in a meaningful place.The regulations for cremation vary state-by-state. Most funeral directors will wait up to 48 hours to perform a cremation to make sure the process is authorized and any necessary paperwork and permits have been obtained. Family members and loved ones can use this time to say goodbye, hold a service or visitation and collect any valuable or sentimental items from the deceased. During the cremation, a casket or container holding the deceased’s body is put into a chamber, where the remains are reduced to ash. From there, the ashes are returned to the family or to a designated location, like a funeral home.
What is the burial process?
Burial is considered the more traditional option in comparison to cremation. Before a burial, the deceased’s body will often be embalmed in order to preserve it. Families may prefer an immediate burial, in which case they would typically opt out of embalming. Depending on the wishes of the deceased, their loved ones may hold a viewing or visitation of the body prior to burial. Then, the body will be buried in a casket or vault at a cemetery, gravesite or other chosen place of rest.
Pros and Cons of Cremation and Burial
There are both pros and cons to cremation and burial, many of which depend on the unique preferences of the deceased and their loved ones. Some people may opt for cremation because it’s more affordable, has less time and location constraints than a burial and their loved ones will be able to keep their remains with them. However, people may not choose cremation due to cultural and religious differences, limited availability of cremation services and the lack of a physical place for their loved ones to visit and mourn.Burial may appeal to people because it’s the more traditional and familiar option, and they may prefer to have a physical resting place for their loved ones to visit. However, burial is usually more expensive than cremation, and there may be restrictions to how often your loved ones can visit and what they can leave at your place of rest.
What are the cost differences between cremation and burial?
The costs will vary for both cremation and burial depending on the funeral home, the method of preparation of the deceased and the arrangements for the viewing, visitation or funeral service. The National Funeral Directors Association estimates the cost of a funeral with a viewing and burial is approximately $7,848 while the median cost of a funeral with cremation is approximately $6,971. Final expense insurance can help cover the costs of either a cremation or burial, easing the financial burden on family and loved ones.
Religious Considerations
End-of-life planning is often significantly affected by religious considerations. Your beliefs may impact whether you choose a cremation or burial. Talking through your end-of-life choices with your loved ones, including religious preferences, will help them make decisions during a difficult time.
Have questions about end-of-life decisions? Let SelectQuote help.
Making end-of-life decisions is never easy, but you can ease the burden for your loved ones by having the right life insurance coverage. Whether you’re purchasing final expense insurance or updating your life insurance policy while making end-of-life plans, SelectQuote is here to help. Our 35+ years of industry knowledge allow us to answer your questions with care and expertise, helping you find the right coverage and peace of mind for your loved ones.
