Low-Cost Options
Money Matters: Practical Options
When a death occurs, unexpected or otherwise, financial concerns can quickly become overwhelming. This section outlines practical options and typical costs associated with end-of-life arrangements—from transporting the body to selecting containers, resting places, and funeral services. Understanding these categories can help you plan realistically, reduce expenses, and make informed choices during a difficult time.
The Body ("Disposition")
Some options eliminate most body-related costs entirely—if they are available and accepted.
Medical Schools
Often free, including transport and final disposition—if accepted. Acceptance depends on timing, condition, and location.
For-Profit Organizations
Also often free, but requires advance coordination and acceptance criteria vary.
For more information, visit our Whole Body Donation page.
If no one can or is willing to take responsibility for the deceased, and if authorities approve, the local government may handle disposition at no cost. There is usually no choice or return of remains.
Look for more details on our Local Laws & Resources page.
While considered a less costly option, cremation costs can still add up. Even at the low end, expect $600+ in most areas. Be sure to obtain a firm quote from the provider before assuming this will be your cheapest option.
Moving the Body
Transportation can be one of the most flexible—and overlooked—cost categories. Laws vary—check local requirements for permits or refrigeration.
Whether yours or a friends, this option is usually legal. Costs are mainly fuel, time, and any privately-arranged compensation.
Often under $200/day, but you will need help loading and lifting.
Convenient in terms of body handling, but costs are commonly $500 or more.
Whole-Body Encasement
Encasement requirements are often cemetery policy, not law.
A simple fabric wrap – commonly allowed in green and natural burials.
Functional and low-cost, cardboard containers are commonly accepted by cemeteries.
More durable than the first two options, but still relatively low-cost and commonly accepted.
Remains Containers
There is no legal requirement for EXPENSIVE containers.
A basic container (even a bucket!) is sufficient for transport.
A shoebox or personal container is usually sufficient. Some crematoriums include a container in their cost.
Whole-Body Resting Places
Costs here depend heavily on land, ownership, and rules.
Natural Burial
Minimal intervention; usually lower long-term costs.
Green Burial
Similar to natural burial but within designated sections.
Pre-Paid Group or Common Plot
Sometimes offered by municipalities or nonprofits.
Requires compliance with Federal rules. Many costs depend on transportation. For US military burial at sea, visit our Veterans page.
Cremated or Composted Remains Resting Places
Scattering and placement costs vary by law and land ownership.
Often free where legal; disclosure may be required upon sale.
Usually admission fees plus possible permits.
Permit required in many cases. Rules vary by Park.
Requires travel at least 3 nautical miles offshore. Check out our Veterans page for US Naval burial information.
Many cemeteries also contain gardens or plots specifically designed for the dispersal of cremated remains. Costs vary widely, so check with the specific facility.
At-Home Options
A home funeral allows families and communities to take a hands-on role in caring for a body after death. This “do-it-yourself” approach may include washing and dressing the body, holding a vigil at home, and arranging burial or cremation without a traditional funeral home.
Additional Considerations
While it’s impossible to think of every contingency, here are some other tips to help make this experience as respectful and cost-efficient as possible.
Death certificates, burial permits and transit authorizations may carry small fees.
Rushed decisions often cost more, and unscrupulous entities can take advantage of your vulnerable state. Try to operate from a place of calm, and ask for help from trusted friends.
Paying in advance is not always cheaper or convenient– see our Pre-Pay Options page for more information.