Direct cremation means the body is cremated shortly after death, without embalming and with no viewing or visitation. The ashes are placed in an urn or other container (Federal Trade Commission). It usually costs less than a traditional full-service funeral.
What is and is not included
| Item | Direct cremation |
|---|---|
| Funeral home's basic services fee | Included in the cost (Federal Trade Commission) |
| Transportation and care of the body | Included in the cost |
| Crematory fee | May be included, or added on if the funeral home does not own the crematory |
| Urn or other container for the ashes | There will be a charge |
| Casket | Not required. An alternative container can be used (Federal Trade Commission) |
| Viewing or visitation | Not part of it |
| Cemetery plot or crypt | Only if the remains are buried or entombed |
Direct cremation and direct burial
Both skip the viewing and embalming, and both usually cost less than a traditional funeral (Federal Trade Commission).
| Direct cremation | Direct burial | |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Shortly after death | Shortly after death |
| Container | Alternative container, then an urn | Casket or burial container, usually simple |
| Cemetery plot | Only if you choose it | Needed: a plot or crypt |
| At the graveside | Optional, later | The funeral home often charges extra for a graveside service |
What to ask a provider
- What is the total price, and what exactly does it include? Is the crematory fee in that price?
- Are copies of the death certificate included? How many?
- Is your crematory on site? If not, where is it, and who transports the body?
- Can family be present? Is there a charge?
- How and when do we receive the ashes?
- May I have your General Price List? The FTC says you have the right to one that is yours to keep (Federal Trade Commission).
You can ask for prices by phone without giving your name (Federal Trade Commission), and our cremation cost worksheet helps you compare the answers.
Common questions
Can we still hold a service?
Yes. Direct cremation means there is no viewing or visitation before the cremation. A family can hold a memorial service at any time afterward.
Is embalming needed for direct cremation?
No. The body is cremated shortly after death without embalming, and FTC rules say a funeral provider may not falsely state that embalming is required by law.
What can be done with the ashes?
The FTC says cremated remains can be kept at home, buried, placed in a crypt or niche in a cemetery, or buried or scattered in a favorite spot. Check local rules and get permission for private land.
Related guides
How much does cremation cost?
What cremation costs, what is included in each type, and a worksheet to compare price quotes under your FTC rights.
How much does a funeral cost?
National median funeral costs, what a funeral home must show you under the FTC Funeral Rule, and a worksheet to total the price list you were given.
What to do when someone dies
A step-by-step checklist for the first hours, the first week and the first months after a death, with the official agencies to notify.
Sources
- Types of Funerals, Federal Trade Commission. Checked November 8, 2026.
- The FTC Funeral Rule, Federal Trade Commission. Checked November 7, 2026.
- Funeral Costs and Pricing Checklist, Federal Trade Commission. Checked November 7, 2026.
This guide explains general rules. It is not medical, legal or financial advice for your situation. Program rules and amounts change, usually each January (Medicare and Medicaid) and each October (VA). Confirm details with the agency or a qualified professional before you decide. See our editorial policy.