Ohio Funerals Burials Cremations

Navigating Ohio Funeral and Cremation Costs with Final Expense Brokerage of America

In the heart of the Midwest, Ohio residents face the challenging task of sorting through funeral and cremation costs. This process can be particularly daunting and emotionally taxing during a time of grief. At Final Expense Brokerage of America, we are deeply committed to lightening this burden by providing comprehensive guidance on every aspect of end-of-life expenses. Our mission is to support you through this difficult journey, offering clarity and compassion every step of the way.

Unraveling Ohio’s Specific Regulations on Cremation Services

Each state in the U.S. has its unique set of legal requirements that funeral homes and crematories must adhere to, ensuring the dignified and respectful treatment of human remains through cremation. In the Buckeye State, Ohio, the immediate next of kin is required to sign a ‘Cremation Authorization Form’ before the cremation process can commence. This is a crucial step in respecting the wishes of the deceased and their family.

Furthermore, obtaining a cremation permit from the coroner is an additional requirement. Ohio law stipulates a mandatory waiting period of 48 hours from the time of death before the cremation process can begin. However, due to the necessary paperwork, this period often extends to about three to five days. Expedited services can be arranged if needed, providing some flexibility in these stringent procedures.

In Ohio, a casket is not a legal requirement for cremation. Instead, a suitable rigid container, such as a reinforced cardboard or plywood box (commonly referred to as a cremation container), is acceptable. For families wishing to hold a funeral service prior to cremation, many funeral homes, including ours, offer casket rental options. This allows for a traditional viewing experience without the added cost of purchasing a casket.

Understanding Cremation Costs in Ohio: A Comprehensive Breakdown

Cremation has emerged as a more cost-effective alternative to conventional burial, especially in light of the economic strain caused by the ongoing pandemic and the rising cost of living. The average cost of direct cremation in Ohio stands at approximately $2,045, which is significantly less than the national average. This cost-efficient method has led to a surge in the popularity of cremation in recent years.

Including a memorial service, the average cremation cost in Ohio is around $7,000. This is considerably less than the average cost of a casket and traditional burial services, making it a more affordable option for many families. Cremation allows families to avoid pricier end-of-life expenses such as caskets, embalming, grave liners, and cemetery plots, thereby reducing financial stress during an already emotionally challenging time.

Direct Cremation: A Practical and Economical Choice

Direct cremation is the most affordable cremation service available. It involves a simple, respectful cremation without a service or ceremony. The cremated remains are returned to the next of kin, providing families with the flexibility to plan a memorial service at a time that suits their emotional and financial circumstances.

Direct cremation can be organized online or over the phone, with the cremated remains mailed directly to the next of kin. This offers a practical, cost-effective solution, particularly for families making arrangements from outside Ohio. The fee typically includes the funeral director’s basic services, retrieval and transfer of the deceased, completion of legal paperwork, and the cremation process. A basic cardboard cremation container and a temporary urn are generally included in the cost, making direct cremation an economical choice for many Ohio families.