What is the difference between a funeral and a memorial service?
A funeral involves a service designed to commemorate someone who has passed away with the body of the deceased present. On the other hand, a memorial service aims to memorialize a person without the body present. The ashes of the deceased may still be present at the service.
Is burial or cremation better for me and my family?
It is important to treat each situation independently. We are here to help you decide what is best for your family. You may want to take a few things into account, including the budget and the time available for the service. We will help formulate the best solution based on the needs and preferences of your family. This is an important and personal decision and it is important to be able to accommodate various values and beliefs, especially in New York.
What if I am a veteran or the loved one I am planning for is a veteran?
Get in touch with the appropriate organizations to determine eligibility for help from the VA for burial and cremation needs. Often a veteran will choose to come to rest at a national cemetery with other veterans. There could also be financial benefits available to help with costs associated with the funeral or memorial service.
Can I purchase multiple cemetery plots next to each other at the same time?
Yes, various cemeteries will grant access to a section of land that will only be available to your family. This can be arranged in a row of plots next to each other to make sure the family stays close to one another once deceased.
What can I do to show my support and condolences in New York City?
There is no correct or incorrect way to show your condolences to someone you care about. Usually, it depends on how close you are to the individual and how comfortable you are with them. It would probably mean the world to just hear your voice or get a message from you that lets them know you are there for them during this trying time. You could also send flowers through
econdolence.com. This website is a great resource for offering support to a loved one, how to attend a funeral service and the right things to say in these difficult situations.
Do I need a burial permit in New York City?
The short answer is yes. Once you have filed for a death certificate, the funeral director will collect the necessary permits required for transporting the body of the deceased. They will also secure any permits needed for burial or cremation. If you need to research this yourself, you should start by contacting the Registrar of Vital Statistics in the appropriate district.
How much does cremation cost compared to a burial?
A cremation service is usually about 1/3 of the cost of a standard funeral. Cremations may be chosen for a variety of reasons including financial burden and costs associated with a funeral, families being more transient and dispersed throughout the country, and more. It all depends on your situation and what is most convenient for your family.
Can you be buried without a casket in New York City?
There are no laws that require a casket for burial services in New York. Nonetheless, you should always double-check with the cemetery being used, as they may have their own rules requiring a container of sorts. There is no law that requires a casket for cremation.
How long will I be grieving the loss of my loved one?
There are no timetables to follow when you are grieving. Time can often feel stagnate even after a year has gone by. Everyone will deal with the loss of a loved one on their own terms. There are several resources available for anyone grieving in the state of New York. Here are a few links that offer advice on dealing with the loss of someone you love:
Grief Support Center Find a Grief Center Choosing a Grief Center