In the State of Florida, the average funeral service costs about $6,500, and that price is rising. If you or someone close to you passes away without plans for funeral expenses, loved ones may need to think about how to cover rising funeral costs.
Funeral insurance, also known as burial insurance or life insurance, can help your family pay for all of the expenses in the event of your death. In addition, planning for funeral expenses early can help you determine how you want to be remembered. If you leave any debts, such as credit card balances, your loved ones can use the funds to pay those off as well.
Purchasing burial insurance is similar in any location, but Florida has some special rules. This guide describes the steps you should take to purchase burial insurance, including how Funeral Advantage can support your loved ones after your passing.
Florida funeral and burial expectations
With respect to death certificates, embalming, and cremation, each state establishes and enforces its own laws.
Death Certificates
In Florida, the funeral director, physician, or coroner must issue a death certificate within five days of a deceased person’s death. This must be done before a person can be buried or cremated.
Embalming and refrigeration
Florida law does not require embalming, but a body must be refrigerated if burial or cremation does not occur within 24 hours.
Cremation Services
Florida requires a 48-hour waiting period before cremation. Legal next of kin must also sign a cremation authorization. State law does not require a casket for cremation, but you must use a suitable, rigid container made of a material such as plywood or reinforced cardboard.
You may shop or scatter the ashes from cremation or scatter them on any property. Check with property owners and/or the Department of Environmental Protection if you wish to scatter ashes on private property. However, you cannot scatter ashes in fresh water in Florida. For funeral burials in the sea, A permit is required from the United States Coast Guard or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Average funeral costs in Florida
Funeral costs in Florida average $6,500. This cost does not include the casket, cemetery grounds, or tombstone. Depending on the products and services you choose, the exact cost may be more or less.