Learn more about Cremation Center of New England with our Frequently Asked Questions section.
Who can authorize cremation?
The legal next of kin or designated agent (if signed and acknowledged by such person prior to death) can authorize the cremation. In cases where there are multiple next of kin all such persons must authorize the cremation.
Can someone other than my legal NOK authorize the cremation?
Yes! However, you need to designate that person prior to death.
What if my family members cannot agree?
We encourage you to settle your differences prior to hiring us. However, if a dispute arises during the cremation process, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has given us some guidelines on how to deal with disputes.
What is your service area?
We service all of New England. If you are unsure whether or not you are in our service area, please contact us prior to death so that we can determine if we are able to serve you.
When death occurs, what should I do?
Has a death occurred? When our services are needed, have the hospice personnel call us so that we can make arrangements to take your loved one into our care. If loved one passes away in hospital, a family member can call us, hospital will not call. Then you should complete our simple three-step arrangement process. If your loved one is at the medical examiner’s office, just complete our three-step arrangement process and we will handle the necessary details.
Do I have to come to your facility to finalize the paperwork?
No. In fact, we were the first provider to allow families to make all the necessary arrangements online.
Can I view the body after it has been removed from the place of death?
If you desire to view the body, we can arrange a private goodbye at our funeral home or crematory (Additional Fees apply). We can also make arrangements to have the body embalmed and dressed for a public viewing. Our directors will be happy to go over the different options available and the costs associated with each.
Can I witness the cremation?
Absolutely! (additional fees apply)
Where do the cremations take place?
Cremations are performed at a St Michael Crematory www.stmichaelcemetery.com/crematory in Roslindale, MA. However we do use other crematories if family desires (additional charges may apply)
How long does it take to complete the cremation?
Our goal is to complete the cremation as quickly as possible; however the process is dependent on several different state agencies and the doctor who is responsible for signing the death certificate. For 90% of the families we serve the average turnaround is 3-7 business days.
Please note: without a signed death certificate we can not move forward with cremation.
Please note: without a signed death certificate we can not move forward with cremation.
When can we have a memorial service?
One of the benefits of cremation is that you can plan a memorial service at your convenience. You are not required to rush through the process, which is so common with traditional burial.
How do I place an obituary in the newspaper?
We will help place and obituary in the newspaper. The Boston area newspapers fee ranges from $200-600. A free obituary on our website is included with all our cremation packages.
Where do I get certified copies of the deceased’s death certificate?
We take care of this for you. The charge is $15 for each copy.
Please note: It may take up to 3 weeks after the cremation is complete to receive the certified copies from the City or Town.
Please note: It may take up to 3 weeks after the cremation is complete to receive the certified copies from the City or Town.
Is there anything else I will be required to buy?
No. We do offer other services; however, there are no hidden fees in our packages.
Can I pre-pay for your services?
Yes
