4 Questions To Ask During The Cremation Service Selection Process
Losing a loved one is hard and making decisions during this time is difficult. The last thing you want is to feel like you can't properly pay respects to your loved one while you are grieving. Before you make any commitments when it comes to cremation services, here are four things to ask during the selection process.
Question 1 – What all is included?
Service packages will vary from provider to provider, and you want to think about details that are important to you. This includes visitation times, keepsakes, and memorial services. When you interview a cremation provider, ask for what services they offer with each price range. It is required by law that they offer clear pricing, so always request a printed price sheet to keep with your notes. You will also want to ask what personalization services they offer, as many crematories have limited options. Before interviewing providers, consider what keepsakes you will want and what wishes your loved one had.
Question 2 – How will they care for your loved one?
It is important to know how the funeral home or crematory will care for your loved one. Regardless of whether you select a funeral home or a crematory, the deceased will need to be transported. Funeral homes routinely outsource this process, but it is your right to know how it is done. Also, consider talking to the providers to see how they care for the loved ones while they are awaiting cremation. Finally, make sure you know how identification is made to ensure the ashes you take home are those of your loved one.
Question 3 – Are visitations or memorial services available?
Similar to knowing what each service costs, you will want to know if the provider you are interviewing allows any gathering. Not every family wants a memorial service. However, if you decide that you do want a funeral, then you will want to see if they offer rental caskets for the service. Other services you can request include being present when the cremation occurs and having a celebration of life ceremony with ashes present. Talk to your family about what they want, and then take those ideas to the interview.
Question 4 – What do the reviews look like?
Before going into an interview with a company, you will want to check into reviews and testimonials. This is also true with funeral homes and crematories. In many cases, you can find testimonials on a provider's website or printed brochures. However, you will also want to search the Internet to look for any negative reviews. Ask questions regarding why a person liked their service, as well as what they disliked. Be leery of any company that does not openly share reviews, testimonials, or prices.
For more information, contact a cremation service near you like Morris Nilsen Funeral Chapel.