There are many different options to consider when planning a funeral for a loved one. This is a difficult time to have to make very significant decisions and your funeral home staff can be instrumental in providing both advice and support. If you are thinking of using Iowa cremation services it is essential to talk with the funeral home staff both about Iowa cremation costs as well as the options you have.
The Difference between Iowa Cremation Services and Funeral Services
Often people are confused about difference between funeral services and cremation services in Iowa. The easiest way to differentiate the two is to remember that funeral services include everything from moving the loved one to the funeral home through to providing transportation to the cemetery or crematory. Iowa cremation services are specifically focused on processing the body, which can include transporting the body to the crematory, and placing the cremains into an urn of your selection.
Funeral services may include cremation services in Iowa when prices are quoted. Typically Iowa cremation costs are included in packages offered by different funeral homes. While it may be difficult to do, it is important to contact at least a few local funeral homes to get information on Iowa cremation costs.
Written Pricing is Important
If you are going to choose cremation services in Iowa that are offered in a package through a funeral home you can request written information on pricing. The funeral home will provide you with written, detailed and itemized pricing both on individual services as well as the packages they offer. By requesting written information on cremation costs in Iowa you can compare different funeral homes and services to determine which option is best for your needs.
Since many funeral services and cremations are planned over the phone without the need to come into the funeral home, the staff will ask how you wish to receive the written information. Email or fax are very quick options that are easy to manage and allows you to compare different packages, pricing and funeral home services.
Understand Realistic Budget Limitations
Having this written information will also help you in budgeting. The funeral home director and staff will be able to help you tailor a funeral and cremation based on the reality of your financial status. In many situations the cremation costs in Iowa are lower than that of a traditional casket and burial, which can be an important factor. By reducing your costs with cremation you can use those funds for other aspects of the funeral service.
Possible Options for Payment of Iowa Cremation Costs
In many cases loved ones may not realize that the deceased had insurance or benefits that may help offset cremation costs in Iowa. Your funeral director or crematory staff will ask you specific information to help you determine if there are possibilities for a claim. These may be made through specific types of life and funeral insurance and claims can be made directly through the funeral home to access those types of policies.
Other options for benefits can include Social Security benefits and benefits for those that are veterans. The funeral home or crematory staff can explain the claims process and will submit all required documentation and paperwork to get the process started.
Cremation Services Combined With A Funeral
Cremation does not mean that the family cannot have many of the same features as they would have with a traditional burial as the final disposition of the body. Funeral homes can arrange for viewings and visitation as well as open or closed casket services to be followed by cremation. It is important to talk to the funeral director if you are choosing this option to get accurate information on cremation costs with or without a full funeral service.
There may be options that the funeral home can offer which may include a casket that is lower cost than a traditional since it will be part of the cremation process. They may also provide casket rental for the visitation and viewing and then move the body in a simple casket from the funeral home to the crematory.
Depending on the time frame, this option may require that the body be embalmed. The funeral director can advise you on the Iowa state specific legal regulations and laws regarding preserving a body for either burial or cremation.
Ask Questions And Compare Answers
Highly professional and efficient funeral homes and funeral home directors will have years of experience in helping people through this very difficult time in their lives. They will anticipate your questions and provide answers in clear, concise and compassionate ways.
In addition your funeral director can also discuss the cremation costs in Iowa compared to traditional burial, allowing you to make the decision with the understanding and information that you need. We have staff available 24 hours a day who would be happy to help you explore your options.