FAQS

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Questions About the Cremation Process

To begin with, it is probably easier to describe what cremation isn’t. Cremation is not a final disposition of the remains, nor is it a type of funeral service. Rather, it is a process of reducing the human body to bone fragments using high heat and flame.

It depends on the weight of the individual. For an average size adult, cremation takes from two to three hours at normal operating temperature between 1,500 ºF to 2,000 ºF.

All organic bone fragments, which are very brittle, as well as non-consumed metal items, are “swept” into the back of the cremation chamber and into a stainless steel cooling pan. All non-consumed items, like metal from clothing, hip joints, and bridge work, are separated from the cremated remains. This separation is accomplished through visual inspection as well as using a strong magnet for smaller and minute metallic objects. Items such as dental gold and silver are non-recoverable and are commingled in with the cremated remains. The remaining bone fragments are then processed in a machine to a consistent size and placed into a temporary or permanent urn, selected by the family.

Cremated remains resemble coarse sand and are whitish to light gray in color. The remains of an average size adult usually weigh between four to eight pounds of cremated remains.

We return remains in a temporary container but we offer a variety of affordable urns.

With the exception of minute and microscopic particles, which are impossible to remove from the cremation chamber and processing machine, all of the cremated remains are given back to the family.

Concerns About Cremation

Yes. In Texas, cremation is regulated by state law. A crematory generally must have:

– Authorization from the legal next of kin or authorized representative.

– A completed death certificate and required permits before cremation.

– A waiting period of at least 24 hours after death before cremation can occur.

Specific requirements can vary by situation, so funeral homes and crematories must follow rules set by the state and local authorities.

Never. Not only is it illegal to do so, but most modern cremation chambers also are not of sufficient size to accommodate more than one adult. Thus it would be a practical impossibility to conduct multiple cremations simultaneously.

No. We are not offering these services at this time.

We have developed the most rigorous set of operating policies and procedures in order to maximize our level of quality and minimize the potential for human error. Positive identification of the deceased is assured throughout each stage of the cremation process. We only allow certified professionals to operate our cremation equipment.

Questions About Urns, Caskets, & Embalming

An urn is not required by law. However, an urn may be desired if there is to be a memorial service or the cremated remains are to be interred in a cemetery. If an urn is not selected, the cremated remains will be placed in a plastic bag and then placed in a temporary plastic box.

No, a casket is not required for cremation.

Absolutely not and it is against the law for a funeral home to tell you otherwise.

Questions About Social Security Death Benefits

Eligible family members may receive Social Security survivor benefits, including:

A surviving spouse

Certain divorced spouses

Children (usually under 18, or up to 19 if still in high school)

Disabled children

Dependent parents (in some cases)

A one-time death payment may also be available to an eligible surviving spouse or child.

To apply, you need to complete the “Application for Survivors Benefits” (Form SSA-10). You can obtain this form from the Social Security Administration (SSA) website, local Social Security office, or by calling the SSA toll-free number.

It is advisable to notify the SSA as soon as possible after the death. You can do this by contacting the SSA directly or by informing the deceased’s financial institution, which will, in turn, notify the SSA.

While there is no strict time limit for applying, it is recommended to apply as soon as possible to ensure timely processing. Survivor benefits can be paid retroactively, but the effective date of benefits may be limited.

Questions About Veterans

Surviving family members may be eligible for benefits such as Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), VA home loan guaranty, education assistance through the Fry Scholarship, and burial benefits, including a headstone or marker.

To apply for DIC, surviving spouses, children, or dependent parents can complete an application online through the VA’s website, visit a local VA office, or seek assistance from a Veterans Service Officer (VSO).

Burial benefits may include a burial plot in a national cemetery, a headstone or marker, burial flag, and reimbursement of burial expenses. Family members can contact the National Cemetery Scheduling Office for assistance.

Survivors can request a copy of the veteran’s death certificate from the state where the veteran passed away. Each state has its own process for obtaining death certificates, which can usually be initiated through the vital records office.

Yes, surviving family members can access mental health support services through the VA’s bereavement counseling services. These services are designed to help families cope with the emotional challenges of losing a veteran.

The VA offers a reimbursement program for funeral expenses, including transportation of the deceased veteran’s remains. Survivors can apply for reimbursement by submitting the necessary documentation to the VA.

Survivors can check the status of their application for survivor benefits by contacting the VA directly or using the online inquiry tools available on the VA’s official website.