Direct cremation: a plain-language guide
This page explains what the term means, so you can recognize it on a price list. It is one choice among several. We are not suggesting it is better or worse than any other.
What it means
Direct cremation means cremation without a formal viewing, visitation or ceremony with the body present.
Source: 16 CFR 453.1(g). 16 CFR 453.1 (Legal Information Institute). Last checked 5 November 2026.
What the federal rule says about it
A casket isn't required for direct cremation. Providers who arrange direct cremations must make an alternative container available.
Source: 16 CFR 453.3(b); 453.4(a). 16 CFR 453.3 (Legal Information Institute); 16 CFR 453.4 (Legal Information Institute). Last checked 5 November 2026.
Except in certain special cases, embalming is not required by law. It may be necessary if you choose certain arrangements, such as a funeral with viewing.
Source: 16 CFR 453.3(a)(2)(ii). 16 CFR 453.3 (Legal Information Institute). Last checked 5 November 2026.
Questions you may want to ask
- What does the price include, and what is separate?
- What kind of container is used, and is an alternative container available?
- Can we hold a gathering or service of our own, before or after, and what would that involve?
- How long does the process usually take, and are there waiting periods or paperwork steps in our state?
- Could you give us an itemized written statement of what we chose and the prices?
Prices and price lists
When you meet in person and start discussing arrangements or prices, they must offer you a General Price List that you can keep.
Source: 16 CFR 453.2(b)(4); FTC guide. 16 CFR 453.2 (Legal Information Institute); FTC consumer advice: The FTC Funeral Rule. Last checked 5 November 2026.
The federal rule doesn't require them to mail or email it, though some states require mailing a price list on request, so they may ask you to call or visit.
Source: FTC guide (the Rule text doesn't address email). FTC consumer advice: The FTC Funeral Rule; FTC business guidance: Complying with the Funeral Rule. Last checked 5 November 2026.
At the end of the arrangements discussion, they must give you an itemized written statement of what you chose and the prices.
Source: 16 CFR 453.2(b)(5). 16 CFR 453.2 (Legal Information Institute). Last checked 5 November 2026.
Rules vary by state
Rules vary by state. Your state decides who has the legal right to make these decisions and sign the forms, including for cremation. Many states set an order of priority, such as a person named in writing, then a spouse or next of kin, and some set deadlines. Ask the funeral home or your state's funeral board what applies.
Permits, death certificate steps, embalming exceptions, waiting periods before cremation, and transport across state lines also vary. The funeral home can usually tell you what's needed, including whether you must sign anything in person.
This is a planning aid, not legal advice. We are not a funeral home, funeral director, cremation provider or broker. We don't arrange funerals, contact funeral homes, recommend any provider or receive any payment from them. You decide what to send and who to send it to.
Sources
- 16 CFR Part 453, the FTC Funeral Rule (Legal Information Institute)
- FTC consumer advice: The FTC Funeral Rule
- FTC business guidance: Complying with the Funeral Rule
Last checked 5 November 2026. These pages are general information, not legal advice, and rules can change.