Q. How does the SCCBS work?
A. The Cremation Society is notified immediately at the time of death. The member's body is transported to the Society's crematory where it is held until the death certificate can be signed by the physician. The cremation permit is then secured from the coroner and the body is cremated. The Society handles this entire process.
Q. At the time of death, what is the cost for the complete cremation service?
A. The cost of the complete cremation service is presently $1095 for members. This is payable at the time services are rendered. The charge for non-members, whom we also serve, is $1,295.
Q. Does the body have to be embalmed?
A. No. With SCCBS's modern facilities, the body does not have to be embalmed.
Q. What happens to the ashes after Cremation?
A. The cremated remains (ashes) will be handled according to the written instructions, or may be picked up by the survivors to do with as they wish, or will be delivered or mailed for a fee of $75.
Q. In what kind of container are the cremated remains returned?
A. The cremated remains are placed in a temporary urn which is made of plastic. There are many types of permanent urns for you to select from should you desire to do so.
Q. Does your price of $1095 for complete cremation service apply for the entire state of South Carolina?
A. Yes, it also applies to the Savannah, GA and Augusta, GA metro areas. However, depending on where the death occurs, there may be additional mileage fees. We will be happy to discuss this with you.
Q. May I pre-pay the cremation cost of $1095?
A. Yes. And you will receive a lifetime guarantee that this is all you will ever pay. One hundred percent of the funds are secured with a specially designed life insurance policy as governed by the State Board of Financial Institutions. At the time of death, the Society retains the principal plus interest, in consideration for the lifetime guarantee. Call our office to request your contract when you are ready to pre-pay the expenses in full.
Q. What happens if the death occurs while out of the State of South Carolina?
A. Call SCCBS first and we will assist you in locating a bona fide cremation society in the community you are located in. This will help you simplify the arrangements.
Q. Is the Cremation Society licensed by the State of South Carolina?
A. Yes. The Society is also staffed by South Carolina Licensed Funeral Directors as required by law.
Q. Do Social Security and Veterans' benefits apply to the Cremation Society services?
A. Yes, a survivor to an eligible decedent may receive benefits. Our office will complete and file all the benefit applications for you.
Q. May I change my instructions in the future?
A. Yes. You many change any instructions you wish by just contacting us.
Q. Is the modern trend toward cremation?
A. Most definitely. In some parts of the country, cremation is being chosen for disposition for more than a third of all deaths. Of course, cremation is practically as old as humanity, having been practiced for centuries in other cultures. Our modern approach is simply a reflection of our growing concern for the environment and an appreciation of the simplicity and dignity of the cremation rite. What could be more simple?
Q. How do I join the South Carolina Cremation & Burial Society?
A. You may register using the online Membership Registration Form and providing your credit card number. Your credit card will be charged a one-time registration fee of $35 per application. Or you may print the form to fill it out by hand and send it to the South Carolina Cremation & Memorial Society with a check for $35 per application. The $35 fee defrays the cost of setting up and maintaining your records. It is not refundable, and does not offset the final service costs. After we receive your membership form, either online or by mail, we will register your information and send you two, (2) wallet-sized membership cards and a registration confirmation. As a member, you may call or write us regarding any related questions. A troublesome burden will be removed, and you will be doing a very thoughtful thing for your survivors.
Q. What other assistance do you offer my survivors after death?
A. A Cremation Society Director will help your survivors arrange a memorial service, write an obituary, prepare memorial folders, obtain certified copies of the death certificate, arrange cemetery services, select a permanent memorial urn, notify the Social Security office and file for the Veteran's Allowance. If you would like more information or a printed brochure, please contact us. |
