frequently asked questions

Funeral practices are influenced by religious and cultural traditions, costs and personal preferences. These factors help determine whether the funeral will be elaborate or simple, public or private, religious or secular, and where it will be held They also influence whether the body will be present at the funeral, if there will be viewing or visitation, and if so whether the casket will be open or closed and whether the remains will be buried or cremated. The law requires funeral homes to give you written general price list for products and services. So please ask for one when planning a funeral.

When a loved on dies, survivors are eligible for benefits from Social Security or the Veterans Administration. The qualifications for Social Security benefits depend on age, marital status,, number of dependents, and whether the deceased contributed to Social Security. It is important to remember that the Social Security benefits is not automatic; survivors must apply for benefits through the Social Security Administration. However, most funeral homes now file the needed forms for you, or will assist you in determining what benefits are available to you and how to receive them.

Embalming is not required by law, except if burial or cremation does not take place within 48 hours of death. Embalming may be necessary, however, if you select certain funeral arrangements, such as public visitation and viewing. If you do not want embalming, you usually have a right to choose an alternative arrangement such as a direct cremation or immediate burial. Additionally, common carrier regulations usually require embalming as a condition for the transportation of a deceased person. If embalming is desired the amount of time that elapses between death and embalming can make a difference in the personal appearance of the body.

Disposition of the body may occur without any service. Expenses will include removal of the body from the place of death, transportation of the body to the burial or cremation site and whatever may be necessary to meet legal requirements and the minimum requirements of the Bliley Funeral Homes.