How to Pay for Cremation

Dealing with funeral expenses can be stressful, and even lead to financial issues for surviving family members. A cremation can be a more affordable option, especially for families financially unstable. When deciding on cremation, a family is not required to purchase ceremonial items such as embalming, clothing or a coffin.

Things You’ll Need:

• Credit Card


• Valid identification


• Life insurance policy


• Medicare/Medicaid policy

• Make sure the credit card you want to use has a limit high enough to cover the cost of the cremation, or if you prefer, bring your checkbook with you.


• Present a valid life insurance policy to the funeral home during your appointment. They will call to verify the policy and then present an agreement clause you must sign. Go over the clause thoroughly before signing. Ask any questions you may have. Once you have signed these clause, you need to pay for the services.


• Go over the deceased’s Medicare or Medicaid policy, if available. Some policies can provide some death benefits to cover or lower costs of the cremation.


• Speak to the funeral director to work out a payment plan, especially if you are in a stressful financial situation. Some funeral homes allow families to make monthly payment plans in order to pay off the cremation.


• Apply for assistance with payment on ModestNeeds.org if there is no life insurance. Fill out the application to apply for financial help.


• Speak to other surviving members and ask to split any costs. This may ease some financial stresses.


• Call your local funeral or memorial society. These is usually a nonprofit organization that can give you advice how to pay for cremation fees, especially without insurance.