Each year, more than 165,000 families in Florida choose cremation, second among all states in the U.S. Cremation has become the preferred method in Florida and throughout the country when a loved one passes.

Before contacting cremation services in Tampa, however, you should think about the type of cremation you want. While cremation is simpler and less expensive than burial, there are still many choices to make, such as:

• Direct cremation: The most basic service, which involves cremating the body shortly after death, without a formal funeral service beforehand. This is often the most affordable option.
• Cremation with a memorial service: Some families choose to have a memorial service or celebration of life after the cremation. The provider can help arrange this event.
• Cremation with viewing: If you prefer, some providers offer an opportunity for family and friends to view the body before cremation takes place.

Understanding your specific needs will help narrow down the list of providers that specialize in or offer the type of services you require.

Find a Reliable and Licensed Cremation Provider

The first thing is to make sure you are working with a reputable cremation provider. It should be certified and licensed by the state to perform cremations/

You can check on licensing for cremation services in Tampa at the website of the Florida Department of Business of Professional Regulation (DBPR).

Look at the Code of Practices

A provider of cremation services in Tampa should abide by the code of practices from the Cremation Association of North America (CANA). The code of practices includes:

• Honoring the deceased with dignity and supporting survivors with compassion
• Preserving and celebrating the memory of lives lived
• Fostering an atmosphere of respect throughout crematory operations
• Selecting staff committed to upholding the crematory’s integrity
• Approaching cremation as preparing for meaningful memorialization
• Facilitating commemorative practices fitting for the bereaved

Ask Questions

CANA also recommends you ask pointed questions before choosing cremation services in Tampa. Here are some key questions you should ask:

• Is the cremation performed on-site or through a partner facility? If outsourced, with which crematorium do you collaborate?
• Who is the proprietor of the cremation facility?
• What is the frequency of inspections for the establishment?
• Are all necessary licenses and permits up to date?
• How many staff members operate the facility, and what qualifications are required? Do they hold CANA certification?
• Is refrigeration available at the crematorium?
• What is the typical timeframe between receiving a body and performing the cremation?
• Does the establishment maintain liability insurance coverage?
• Are family members permitted to observe the cremation process?

Reputable cremation providers will answer all of your questions. If they do not, you should look elsewhere.

Get an Itemized Estimate

Costs can vary greatly for cremation services in Tampa. US Funerals reports that the average price for cremation is $1,723 in the Tampa area, while low-cost cremations run about $1,000. A quick search online shows that a direct, no-frills cremation can be found for as low as $800.

Make sure you get an itemized receipt so you understand all costs, including any additional services or fees. Different providers offer different services, so it is important to choose one that offers the services you need. Some providers offer basic cremation services only, while others offer more comprehensive services such as transportation, urn selection, and memorial services.

The Funeral Rule, a federal law, requires funeral service providers to give you an itemized price list, called a General Price List (GPL) upon request. You do not need to choose bundled services, although this may be the best option if you want more than a direct cremation.

For some families, the financial burden of a loved one’s passing can create significant hardships. Such families may want to consider the benefits of whole body donation in Tampa. When you donate a body to medical science through United Tissue Network, UTN pays for the transportation, storage, and cremation with a licensed funeral service provider when research has concluded.

United Tissue Network is a nonprofit organization that coordinates whole body donations in Florida. Accredited by the American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB), UTN upholds the highest level of ethics, handling donated bodies with the dignity and respect they deserve.

If you are interested in becoming a body donor for the advancement of medical science, contact United Tissue Network. Donor specialists are available 24/7 by calling 877-738-6111.