Funeral Arrangements

Whether cremation or burial occurs after donating a body to research depends on the facility and how the body will be used. Payment for cremation or burial is not guaranteed in relation to body donation, although numerous programs will pay for the transportation of the donated body to the facility within a reasonable distance. If the donation program has agreed that the remains will be returned to the family after research is completed, then the costs of cremation may also be covered.

Most reputable organizations that accept body donations for research purposes are medical schools and medical research firms. These organizations generally indicate how the body will be used and for how long, setting clear expectations of when family or loved ones will receive the remains. In these instances, the facilities are usually willing to cremate the body at their expense and ship it back to the family of the person who died. Some institutions further honor the donor by holding a memorial service, where students speak about the “silent teacher” to whom they are indebted. Some research programs or facilities may indicate that they will not return the body, such as those that use skeletal remains. Other programs may only return unused tissues and remains that have been cremated rather than the entire body.

It is important to note that there isn’t a specific federal registry or program that handles whole-body donations intended for research, and likewise, the practice itself isn’t widely regulated. The American Association of Tissue Banks, a non-profit that provides standards for the safe and ethical handling of donated bodies and tissues, offers accreditation to members, but membership is voluntary and only about 120 facilities worldwide belong. Unfortunately, this means that individuals who are interested in donating a body usually need to do extensive research to find a reputable donation program since there are countless for-profit organizations that often take advantage of potential donors. These for-profit organizations frequently indicate that they will provide a low-cost or free cremation in exchange for a donated body, but never inform interested individuals that various body parts will be sold to other entities. In these scenarios, the body typically isn’t returned to the donor’s family and the intended use of the body remains unknown.

Sources

“What happens when you donate your body to science”. MIT Technology Review. https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/10/12/1060924/donating-your-body-science-body-farm/ 

“How does organ and body donation work?”. Mainline Health. https://www.mainlinehealth.org/blog/whole-body-donation#:~:text=After%20your%20body%20has%20been,it%20helped%20advance%20medical%20science. 

“About the American Association of Tissue Banks”. AATB. https://www.aatb.org/about 

“Cashing in on the donated dead: The Body Trade”.  Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/usa-bodies-brokers/ 

Yes, it is possible to purchase a burial plot, or cemetery plot, from a private seller, including through platforms such as Craigslist. The cost of purchasing from a private owner (generally someone selling one or more plots that are no longer needed) is typically lower than purchasing directly from the cemetery. However, there are more limitations, such as not being able to choose the plot location, typically needing to pay in full, and the potential for shady dealings. Every cemetery plot has a legal deed, and it is imperative that this is verified and rewritten as the ownership is transferred, and it should be accompanied by a statement of sale. It’s prudent to contact the cemetery where the plot is located to verify its availability. Different states also have different regulations about cemetery plot resale, so you may want to check with the state government division overseeing cemetery regulations to ensure the sale is legal.

It’s also possible to purchase a privately owned plot through a third-party cemetery plot broker, akin to a real estate agent, but this will typically involve more fees. 

If you decide to buy a burial plot from a private owner, whether through Craigslist or any other means, it’s important to take  precautions to avoid potential issues or scams. You may wish to have a lawyer review the transaction to ensure relevant laws and regulations are being followed. Overall, purchasing from a private seller is generally safe; just be sure to take your time and do your research.

Sources

“How to Buy a Cemetery Plot”. Cemetery.com. https://www.cemetery.com/learning-center/guide-to-cemeteries/how-to-buy-cemetery-plot 

“Cemetery Plot Buying and Selling”. US Funerals Online. https://www.us-funerals.com/cemetery-plot-buying-and-selling/ 

A cemetery plot broker specializes in the purchase and sale of cemetery plots. They facilitate the transfer of ownership during the purchase process and ensure that all aspects of the transaction are handled appropriately. Although some cemetery plot brokers sell directly to individuals who are seeking to purchase a plot for themselves or a loved one, brokers may also earn commissions when selling plots on behalf of specific clients. 

Cemetery regulations and licensing can vary by state, which means that resale of cemetery plots may not be permitted in all states. Some states require cemetery plot brokers to have certain licenses, so individuals are advised to check local regulations if they are approached regarding the purchase or sale of a plot. Commissions are typical with the purchase or sale of a plot, but services facilitating the transaction should also be included in an ideal arrangement. In general, individuals are always encouraged to do their due diligence in researching potential options to ensure they select a reputable broker.

While the purchase and sale of cemetery plots is the primary service brokers offer, some brokers offer additional services such as cemetery research and assistance with plot locations or documentation. Since they are typically knowledgeable about cemetery policies and regulations, they may also guide individuals seeking to buy or sell their plots to help them make informed decisions. Most cemetery plot brokers can determine the market value of prospective plots and assist buyers and sellers in obtaining a fair price. 

Ultimately, partnering with a cemetery plot broker can be an effective way to navigate the process of purchasing or selling a plot, especially if individuals are seeking a plot based on specific criteria. A reputable broker can make the identification of a plot, the transfer of ownership, and the overall transaction easier for everyone involved. 

Sources

“How to Start a Business Selling Cemetery Plots”. Chron. https://smallbusiness.chron.com/start-business-selling-cemetery-plots-15504.html 

“Cemetery Plot Buying and Selling”. US Funerals Online. https://www.us-funerals.com/cemetery-plot-buying-and-selling/ 

According to the Funeral Consumer Alliance, no state law requires that you purchase a burial vault or grave liner. However, most traditional cemeteries do. As a general rule, the cemetery will give you the option of purchasing a grave liner or a vault. A concrete grave liner that covers only the top and sides of the coffin is generally the least costly option. A concrete vault, which encases the entire casket, will cost considerably more. If you opt for a vault that is reinforced with steel, copper or bronze or even high-impact plastic, that cost will increase considerably. 

When you are considering your options, keep in mind that the only true purpose of a vault or grave liner is to prevent the ground from settling and protect the casket from heavy equipment (such as backhoes and lawnmowers) that may pass over the grave. Burial liners and vaults do not prevent decomposition of a buried body, although they may slow it down somewhat. Decomposition is a natural process that occurs largely from the inside out. Exposure to the elements and microorganisms in the ground will likely speed up decomposition, but it will happen regardless of what kind of container the body is encased in. 

Keep in mind, too, that the FTC Funeral Rule requires that funeral providers give you a written price list for their burial liners and vaults. As a rule, the least expensive option will be perfectly adequate to meet your needs. It’s extremely unlikely that a cemetery would sell a vault that is not strong enough to prevent the ground from collapsing, which is the only valid reason a vault would be required. 

If you truly do not want to purchase a grave liner or vault, another option is to search for a natural or “green” burial ground in your area. These eco-friendly burial grounds generally prohibit concrete burial containers and vaults of any kind.  

Sources

“The Stages of Human Decomposition”. Aftermath. https://aftermath.com/blog/stages-human-decomposition 

“Traditional Burial”. Funeral Consumers Alliance. https://funerals.org/get-help/making-decisions/traditional-burial/