The following are some definitions and regulations which could give you a better understanding through this process. Don't be afraid to shop around or ask questions.
Arrangement Conference
The meeting between you and the funeral director where you decide which funeral services and select the merchandise you would like.
Cash Advance Items
Items of service or merchandise the funeral home pays directly to a third party, such as fees for the cemetery or crematory, death certificates and clergy. Some funeral homes require you to pay for these items before the funeral service. If you choose, you may be able to pay some of these fees directly. Remember to get receipts for all money you spend, whether to the funeral home or a third party.
Columbarium
A type of outer container with spaces for storing urns containing ashes or cremains.
Cremation
A process that reduces the body to skeletal fragments which are then processed. These cremated remains may be buried, placed in a columbarium or kept in your home. Some people choose to purchase an urn for the cremains rather than use the container provided by the crematory.
Custodial Care This term is used when the funeral home is in custody of the deceased’s body or cremated remains, some funeral homes have stated charges for the type of custodial care be provided, as the funeral director if you have questions concerning custodial care.
Consumer The person making funeral arrangements. The customer may be a family member, legal representative or a friend legally designated by the decedent. The customer will be legally responsible for the payment of the funeral bill.
Direct Burial
The disposition of human remains by burial without formal viewing, visitation or ceremony, except for a graveside service.
Direct Cremation
Direct cremation is the disposition of human remains by cremation without formal viewing, visitation or ceremony. A family can have a memorial service any place they wish without the involvement of the funeral home.
Entombment
Burial in an above-ground crypt in a mausoleum or in a lawn crypt. There will be a charge for the use of the crypt.
General Price List
A form listing the price (or range of prices) for all services and merchandise offered by the funeral home. This form must be given to you at the beginning of the arrangement conference. You may request a copy from a funeral home when a personal visit is made. You do not need to complete funeral arrangements to receive this form.
Itemized Statement of Services and Merchandise
A detailed outline of the specific goods and services you have chosen, the price of each item and the total cost. Also included will be an estimate of the cash advance fees to be paid on your behalf to third parties. The Itemized Statement will serve as your contract.
Undertaker
Doing for others what they find hard to do themselves. “This term simply states the personal touch that our staff offers to those that require our services in their time of need.”
