The death of an infant is something no one can really prepare themselves for, even if there are known complications during the pregnancy. After such elation at the thought of having a baby, the loss can be devastating.
As you’re trying to make sense of the loss and come to terms with the thought of not getting the opportunity to raise your child, you are expected to plan funeral services. Laws vary by state, but in general, babies that were born 24+ weeks into pregnancy must be buried or cremated. However, there are end-of-life services for babies that are born earlier.
Getting through infant funeral planning is never easy on any of the people involved, but with the right support, it can be a part of the grieving process that gives the family solace and closure.
Let Family Values Guide the Funeral Service Decisions
The options that are available to adults and children are also available for infants. The family can choose traditional burial, green burial, flame-based cremation or water cremation in the states where it has been legalized.
The choice is up to the parents. Really consider your family values and why funeral services are important to you when considering the options. In addition to family and friends, you may want to speak with a funeral director to discuss the options from all angles before making a decision.
Get Clarity on Infant Funeral Service Costs
A funeral along with burial or cremation for an infant is going to cost $3,000+, however there’s no set fees for funeral services. It’s not uncommon for the cost of a full-service funeral to exceed $8,000. In general, burial is going to be more expensive than cremation. And cremation for an infant typically costs less than an adult simply because they are much smaller. Direct cremation without a funeral beforehand is going to be the most affordable option. The family can still choose to have a memorial service after a direct cremation to honor and remember the child.
Like end-of-life services for adults, funeral service providers must produce an itemized funeral price list that clearly notes each cost. This helps families make decisions and ensures they get what they pay for.
Get Support So You Don’t Have to Go It Alone
The death of an infant is a very personal loss, but it’s one that many other people have gone through. Assistance is available for families that need it from financial help to support groups with other parents that understand what you’re going through.
If you need financial assistance paying for funeral services and medical bills or counseling to manage grief there are charitable organizations that can help.
- The TEARS Foundation will provide funds for cremation or burial for infants from 20 weeks gestation up to 1 year old.
- Rebecca’s Reason is another charitable group that can help with medical and funeral expenses.
- Parents can also receive up to $1,000 in medical assistance after stillbirth by applying with Hayden’s Helping Hands.
- In addition to funeral services, Skylar’s Gift Foundation provides mental health services and counseling for parents.
- Star Legacy Foundation has a support line that’s available to parents who have lost an infant or a baby in pregnancy.
If you need help or would like more information about infant end-of-life service options in Texas, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. Direct Cremate is available to help families with streamlined cremation services that are simple to plan.
