What direct cremation involves, costs, pros and cons, and how to arrange a separate memorial service.
This guide is part of ProbateHelp's Funeral Planning guide cluster. Estimated reading time: 8 min.
This guide explains direct cremation, what is usually included, how it differs from a traditional funeral and when a separate memorial service may be arranged later.
It links funeral choices with funeral-cost planning, government support, funeral plans, cremation versus burial and the first practical steps after a death.
Yes — direct cremation is a perfectly dignified option. The body is treated with the same care and respect as in a traditional funeral. Many families find that separating the practical cremation from the memorial service actually allows them to create a more personal and meaningful ceremony.
Yes — and this is one of the main advantages. After the cremation, you can hold a memorial service at any time and any place you choose. This could be at home, in a garden, at a favourite location, in a church, or in a hired venue. There is no time pressure, and you can invite as many or as few people as you wish.
This depends on the provider. Some direct cremation providers offer a viewing at their premises before the cremation. Others do not. If viewing is important to you, check with the provider before booking.
The timetable depends on the provider, crematorium availability, paperwork, and whether the death has been referred to the coroner. Ask the provider when collection, cremation, and return of ashes are expected to happen.
The ashes are returned to the family, usually in a simple container. You can then scatter, bury, or keep them. See our section on what to do with ashes for more options.
Direct cremation providers must follow the same legal cremation paperwork as other cremations, and in-scope funeral directors must follow the CMA funeral market rules on clear price lists. Ask for the Standardised Price List and the total unattended funeral price. Pre-paid funeral plans are different: they have been FCA-regulated since 29 July 2022.
Yes, but there may be a delay. If the death is referred to the coroner, cremation cannot take place until the coroner has issued a cremation certificate. This can add days or weeks to the process.
The terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but there is a distinction. Direct cremation typically means an unattended cremation with no ceremony at the crematorium. A 'simple cremation' may include a short, unattended committal at the crematorium. Always check exactly what is included with the provider.