Pricing & Transparency

Clear pricing before authorization 

Families should be able to understand cremation pricing before making decisions.

The Nebraska Cremation Society provides pricing information in writing so families can review what is included, what is optional, and what circumstances may affect cost.

Our pricing approach is simple:

Services are explained, pricing is provided in writing, and authorization is completed before services proceed.

This page provides general information about pricing structure, what is included in cremation services, and how additional considerations are addressed.

This information is provided for orientation only. Final pricing, selected services, responsibilities, and authorizations are defined in the General Price List, written agreements, and executed authorization documents.

Published Prices

Pricing information is made available before authorization in accordance with applicable law, including the FTC Funeral Rule.

This means:

• Pricing is provided in writing before services are authorized
• Service descriptions are defined in advance
• Selected services are documented
• Costs are based on the services and coordination requested
• Required disclosures are provided before authorization

Providing pricing information does not create an agreement or initiate services.

No services proceed until required authority, documentation, and authorization are completed.

What Is Included 

Each cremation option includes the core elements required for lawful, professional, and accountable cremation care.

These generally include:

• Transfer of the person who has died into our care within the established service area
• Identification and custody procedures
• Confirmation of legal authority
• Completion and review of required documentation and authorizations
• Coordination of cremation at a licensed crematory
• Communication regarding process, timing, and next steps
• Return of cremated remains as arranged
• Written pricing disclosures as required by law

Specific inclusions, exclusions, timing, responsibilities, and charges are governed by the General Price List, written agreements, and executed authorization documents.

Why Prices Differ by Option 

The Nebraska Cremation Society offers three cremation paths:

• Essential Cremation - $1,070
• Guided Cremation - $1,955
• Structured Cremation - $3,730

The difference in price reflects the services and coordination included in each option, not a different standard of cremation care.

Pricing differences generally reflect:

• The amount of service coordination requested
• Whether a gathering, visitation, or formal service is selected
• Facility or location-related components
• Staff time and scheduling
• Preparation, printed materials, merchandise, or additional items selected
• Transportation or special circumstances, when applicable

The standard of care does not change by option.

The same safeguards apply in every cremation option: the authorized person must give permission, identity must be protected, required information must be documented, and each step must happen in the proper order.

Additional Services

In certain circumstances, additional charges may apply. When applicable, these are identified and discussed before authorization whenever possible.

Examples may include:

• Transportation outside the established service area
• Specialized equipment or staffing required for safe handling
• Circumstances requiring additional coordination or resources
• Death certificates
• Obituary placement
• Urns, keepsakes, or other merchandise selected by the family
• Cemetery, clergy, facility, newspaper, permit, or other third-party charges
• Location-specific requirements for a gathering, service, cemetery, church, parish, or committal setting

Any applicable considerations are explained so that informed decisions can be made before services are authorized.

What Is Not Included Automatically 

Not every item a family may want or need is automatically included in a cremation option.

• Depending on the option selected, additional items may include:
• Certified death certificates
• Obituary placement charges
• Urns or keepsakes
• Cemetery or columbarium charges
• Clergy, musician, facility, or third-party fees
• Printed materials
• Additional transportation
• Additional staff or equipment
• Services not selected in writing

Items not included are explained before they are added.

Pricing Process 

Pricing is determined through a defined process.

Before services proceed:

1. The selected service structure is identified
2. Applicable circumstances are reviewed
3. Requested additional items or services are discussed
4. Pricing is provided in writing
5. Authorization is completed before services proceed

Changes to pricing may occur only if:

• Additional services or items are requested
• New information changes the required scope of service
• Third-party charges apply
• Previously identified circumstances require adjustment

Any such changes are identified and discussed before authorization or implementation whenever applicable.

Questions About Cost 

It is appropriate to ask questions about cost.

You may:

• Review written pricing
• Ask what is included
• Ask what is optional
• Ask what may affect cost
• Request clarification before making decisions

Providing or receiving pricing information does not create an agreement or initiate services.

A family should not feel pressured to choose services before understanding the pricing.

Working With a Church, Parish, Cemetery, or Other Provider 

Some families choose cremation while also working with a church, parish, clergy member, cemetery, newspaper, facility, or other provider.

The Nebraska Cremation Society can help coordinate selected practical details when those services are chosen and documented.

However, charges from outside providers are separate unless specifically included in a written agreement.

Religious, theological, liturgical, cemetery, facility, and third-party requirements are determined by the appropriate provider or governing authority.



For Catholic families, parish and cemetery guidance may affect service timing, committal practices, cemetery placement, and the proper handling of cremated remains.

When You Are Ready 

If you choose to proceed:

• Services are defined in advance
• Pricing is confirmed in writing
• Required documentation is completed
• Authorization is obtained before services proceed

You may also wish to review:

Regulatory Notice 

Pricing information is provided in accordance with applicable law, including the FTC Funeral Rule.



The General Price List, written disclosures, executed authorizations, and written agreements govern all services.