Direct cremation is cremation without a viewing or funeral ceremony beforehand. The funeral home or cremation provider brings your loved one into its care, completes the required Florida paperwork, performs the cremation and returns the cremated remains to the family. Many families then hold a memorial gathering at a time and place of their choosing.
What direct cremation usually includes
- Basic services of the funeral director and staff, including filing the death certificate and permits
- Transfer of your loved one from the place of death (within a set local area)
- Refrigerated care until the cremation
- An alternative container (a rigid combustible container, not a casket)
- The cremation itself
- Return of the cremated remains in a temporary container
Items often priced separately: an urn, certified death certificates, transfer from outside the local area, an identification viewing, and shipping of cremated remains.
How the process works in Florida
- Transfer and arrangements. The legally authorized person meets with the funeral director (in person, by phone or online) and signs the cremation authorization. See who can make funeral arrangements in Florida.
- Death certificate. The physician or medical examiner certifies the cause of death and the funeral home files the certificate.
- Medical examiner approval. Florida requires the medical examiner to approve every cremation.
- Waiting period. Florida generally requires at least 48 hours after death before cremation.
- Cremation and return. The remains are returned to the family, often within one to two weeks of the death. See how long cremation takes.
Why families choose direct cremation
- It is generally the least expensive option offered by funeral homes.
- The family can plan a memorial at a later date, without time pressure.
- It suits people who asked for a simple arrangement.
Some families still want a private moment with their loved one first. Ask whether a brief identification or family viewing is possible and what it costs.
What affects the price
- What is included in the package (read the General Price List line by line)
- Distance for transfer and any after-hours charges
- Whether you buy an urn from the provider or elsewhere (you may bring your own)
- Number of death certificates
Use the funeral cost calculator for a general range and see cremation cost in Orlando. The FTC Funeral Rule requires funeral homes that offer direct cremation to let you use an alternative container or an unfinished wood box, and to make one available. See your rights when planning a funeral.
Questions to ask a provider
- What exactly is included in the direct cremation price, and what is extra?
- Where is the cremation performed, and is the crematory owned by the funeral home?
- How are identification and chain of custody handled?
- How long until the remains are returned, and how?
- May we bring our own urn?
Prices mentioned on this page are general ranges for planning purposes, not quotes. Actual costs depend on the provider and the goods and services you choose. Funeral homes must give you an itemized General Price List on request. Editorial policy.