Losing a loved one is one of the hardest things a person can go through. Having to plan memorial services and then determining a way to finance it only makes the pain and suffering worse. While some people plan ahead and have funeral plans solidified before their passing, a vast majority of people do not. Traditionally, burial has been the most common way to memorialize loved ones across the United States, particularly in Utah. However, with costs surging for caskets, plots, and burial services, many are turning to cremation. Here’s why:

#1. A Straightforward Process

One of the benefits of utilizing a cremation service is how straightforward it is. Rather than having to go through the process of selecting a casket, finding a plot, and designing a headstone, the cremation provider will handle all of the loose ends for you. While every direct cremation service may differ in some subtle ways, here is a concise look at the process:

First, the provider will speak with the next of kin to gather necessary information. They will then safely bring the loved one into their care.

Next, you will complete legal documentation. Unlike most funeral homes, you don’t have to fill this out in person. You can fill out the paperwork online and send it via a device. Once the legal permits are solidified, a dignified cremation will take place.

Lastly, the cremated remains will be delivered directly to your home. They will be delivered through a courier service with the necessary tracking. This means no driving back and forth to funeral homes to make plans and decisions. It is all handled for you so you can focus on your healing.

#2. Cremation Costs

Just five years ago, the average costs of cremation and burial were nearly the same. However, cremation prices are substantially less than traditional burial today.

According to a report done by NBC News, current burial costs hover around $6,500. This includes the cost of the casket, which, on average, runs about $2,000 but oftentimes are much more. Families that decide to purchase a burial vault will see the average price increase to about $7,700. Cremation, on the other hand, costs families about one-third of a typical burial. The average cost is about $2,000, but more affordable cremation services are available. When coordinating with a direct crematory, costs are $1,000-$1,500 on average.

#3. Environmental Benefits

Lastly, the environmental benefits of cremation are the future. Now that families are no longer forced into debt over traditional funeral plans and can scatter ashes in a meaningful and beautiful place, cremation is taking some of the headaches and heartaches out of the equation. Cremation is a more ecologically sound way to take up less green space in death. This is just another way to honor a loved one’s life.

Cremation Benefits

While there are different, affordable cremation providers and services to choose from, direct cremation is a cost-effective, safe, and beautiful way to honor a loved one. Direct cremation providers like After.com will safely take care of your loved one, securely store remains, perform the cremation, deliver the cremated remains, and handle all necessary fees and paperwork. Managing the emotional toll associated with loss is enough. Having to fret over funeral decisions, costs, and logistics should not be the focus during this difficult time.