Cremation Authorization Form

There are several time-sensitive tasks to complete following a loss. One of the most important things to do if your loved one chose cremation as their final disposition method is to fill out a cremation authorization form. When planning final services, a cremation authorization form is one of the legal issues you’ll need to address. However, a glance at the form may be overwhelming. Please research the cremation service in Ballwin, MO for guidance.

What Exactly Is a Cremation Authorization Form

A cremation authorization form is one of the most important documents required for cremation. Legal documentation must be signed by a legally authorized individual approving the act of cremation.

The cremation authorization form serves two functions. First, it allows families to specify exactly what they want and who is responsible for their loved one’s cremation. Second, it grants legal authority to the funeral home or crematory to perform the cremation.

Determine Who Has Authorization

Funeral homes that follow the law will provide you with a form that authorizes your loved one’s cremation. Before signing any documents, however, you must first determine who in your family is authorized.

Follow this list of priority qualifications to see if you’re authorized to arrange a cremation.

• A legal representative appointed by the deceased with disposition authority
• The surviving spouse of a deceased person
• The deceased person’s sole surviving child, or if there is more than one surviving child, all of the surviving children collectively
• The surviving parent or parents of the deceased person
• The deceased person’s surviving sibling, whether full or half blood or, if more than one sibling, all surviving siblings collectively
• The surviving grandparent or grandparents of the deceased person
• The deceased’s grandparents’ lineal descendants
• If a guardian was appointed at the time of death, this person was the deceased person’s guardian
• If the descendant is indigent, it is the responsibility of the public officer to arrange for services

If more than one authorized decision-maker exists, all individuals may be required. Keep in mind that authorized individuals may be located in multiple states and must be contacted to sign the form. This can be accomplished by submitting photo identification and a notarized signature electronically or by postal mail.

It’s also important to understand that when a loved one dies, a power of attorney is no longer in effect. That is, the POA may not be qualified to authorize a cremation, but all living family members listed in the checklist above must.

Collect the Required Information

After determining who in your family has the authority to arrange the cremation, the next step is to gather personal information about your loved one and their final wishes. Having this information on hand before meeting with the funeral home of your choice will make the process go more smoothly.

Consult Your Funeral Director

A cremation authorization form requires a lot of information, which we understand can be overwhelming at times. Meeting with your funeral director, on the other hand, can help you finalize every detail.

Have you been authorized but are unsure what to do next? As you begin to plan final arrangements, the cremation service in Ballwin, MO will walk you through the steps and answer the most frequently asked questions. Come see us or call us right away.