If a loved one dies, the thought of deciding what to do with their body and planning their funeral can be hard to handle. However, it is necessary to make these decisions promptly so you can choose between a burial or cremation. If you decide on cremation, you might want to go with a direct cremation. This means the body is cremated right after death, and the rest of the services you choose are entirely up to you. Here are some things to know about direct cremation so you can decide if it is a good option for you.

How is direct cremation different from other methods?

There are two main types of cremation services: direct cremation and traditional cremation. Many people believe all cremations occur instantly, but this isn't the case. You always have the option of having the body embalmed first and planning a wake and funeral service. You can then cremate the body afterward and place it in a casket or in a nice urn. This allows you to plan a traditional funeral, but also cremate the remains of a loved one who preferred this option.

Direct cremation requires cremating the body immediately after death. The main difference is that the body never goes through the embalming process, but goes through a heat process to cremate the bone fragments and other remains.

What is the process of direct cremation?

With direct cremation, the body is often transported to the funeral home from the hospital or the location where the body was found. Documents need to be filled out prior to the cremation occurring, including a death certificate and authorization for the cremation. The funeral home can also pick the body up if you prefer not to handle this part on your own.

When the body is at the funeral home and documents are filled out, the crematorium completes the cremation process immediately. Once the bone fragments are cremated, the remains are placed in a simple wooden or cardboard box with a lid. After that, it is up to you what you decide you do.

How much do you pay for direct cremation?

The cost of a direct cremation depends on the funeral home itself, but it is considerably less expensive than the alternative. Traditional cremation for a funeral service is close to the price of an actual burial, especially if a casket is being chosen. Direct cremation is often chosen due to the low cost and simplicity of the process.