Quick Answer
It is generally possible to place an urn containing cremated remains in a casket with another person who will be buried. However, there are some factors to consider:
- Cemetery rules – Some cemeteries have restrictions against placing cremated remains in occupied caskets. Check with the cemetery first.
- Casket size – The casket must be large enough to accommodate both bodies comfortably.
- Family wishes – All family members should agree to the arrangements.
- Cremation container – The cremated remains must be in a sturdy and secure urn that will withstand burial.
With proper planning and consent, a joint casket burial can allow loved ones to remain together even in death. But be sure to consult the cemetery and funeral home first.
Exploring the Details
Placing an urn in a casket with another deceased person is generally possible but requires some special considerations:
Cemetery Rules
The first thing to check is whether the cemetery allows urns to be placed in occupied caskets. Some cemeteries prohibit this practice due to space limitations or other regulations. Cemetery rules may also dictate the maximum number of urns allowed per casket.
Casket Size
The casket must be large enough to comfortably accommodate the deceased body and urn(s). Standard adult caskets are usually sufficient, but oversized or custom caskets may be required depending on the number of urns. The funeral director can help determine an appropriate casket size.
Secure Urns
Cremated remains must be placed in a sturdy, secure urn that will withstand the pressure and disturbances of burial. Plastic or wooden urns often get compromised and break open. Metal or bronze urns are recommended for burial. The urn should also have a tight seal to prevent leakage.
Family Consent
All immediate family members should agree to placing an urn in the casket. Disputes may arise if the deceased did not express their wishes. Consultation with spiritual leaders or mediators can help resolve conflicts. Written documentation of the deceased’s wishes is ideal.
Burial Arrangements
The funeral director will need to coordinate the burial arrangements, including transporting and interring the urn. There is usually an additional fee for placement of the urn. The urn can be placed in the casket right before burial or at the gravesite.
Gravesite Considerations
If family members want to place additional urns in the grave in the future, they should select a double-depth gravesite. Also consider the gravestone inscription to reflect the names of all occupants.
State Laws
Several states have laws regarding the burial of cremated remains that may impact placing an urn in a casket:
| State | Law Summary |
|---|---|
| California | Urn must be buried at least 18 inches deep; only 5 urns permitted per grave. |
| Florida | Urn must be buried 12 inches deep; cemetery may limit number per grave. |
| New York | Urn must be buried at least 15 inches deep. |
| Pennsylvania | Urn placement in occupied graves permitted only with cemetery approval. |
Consult state and local laws, as other regulations may apply. Some states leave restrictions up to the cemeteries.
Spiritual Customs
Some religious and cultural traditions have customs around placing cremated remains in caskets:
Catholic Tradition
The Catholic Church generally prefers traditional full-body burials but does allow cremated remains to be buried in consecrated cemeteries. Ashes may be placed in an occupied casket during the burial ritual.
Jewish Tradition
Jewish law prohibits cremation but allows ashes to be buried. Rabbinical guidance should be sought for placing an urn in a casket out of respect. A separate gravesite is preferred.
Hindu Tradition
Cremation is highly customary in the Hindu faith. Ashes are often dispersed, but burial is acceptable. Hindus may allow placing remains of relatives together.
Buddhist Tradition
Buddhists also commonly practice cremation. Shared burial of urns may be viewed as eternal bonding of loved ones. Rites should be planned according to regional customs.
The deceased’s faith and culture should be consulted when arranging joint casket burials. Spiritual leaders can provide guidance to honor their traditions.
Legal and Tax Considerations
There are some legal and tax factors to keep in mind when burying cremated remains with another person:
Documentation
The cemetery may require a permit or authorization paperwork to allow urn placement. Ownership documents for the burial plot should reflect joint occupancy.
Inheritance Rights
Heirs of the deceased should mutually agree on joint burial, as disputes over inheritance of the burial plot could arise later. A contract can outline ownership.
Funeral Expenses
If the cremated person prearranged their funeral, unused funds may help cover costs like the urn burial fee. A prepaid plan should include joint burial plans.
Tax Deductions
Federal tax code allows deductions for funeral costs for a spouse or close relative. Joint burial expenses may be deductible for the surviving spouse if certain criteria are met.
Proper estate planning and communication with heirs can avoid legal issues when opting for a shared casket burial.
Funeral Home Logistics
Funeral directors can guide you through the arrangements for a joint casket burial:
Casket Selection
They will advise on an appropriately sized casket and assist with modifications like inserting a shelf to separately accommodate the urn.
Urn Requirements
The funeral home can explain cemetery requirements for the urn like material and sealing standards. They may provide approved urn options.
Burial Coordination
Staff will coordinate all aspects such as transporting the urn to the gravesite and properly interring it in the casket during burial.
Pricing
Expect added fees for the urn placement, cemetery charges, and other accommodation costs. Discounts may apply for simplified shared ceremonies.
Paperwork
The funeral director will submit all necessary paperwork like burial transit permits and applications for the urn. They can guide you through legal documentation.
Reputable funeral homes are well-versed in accommodating joint casket burials and can ensure a smooth, dignified process.
Questions to Ask the Cemetery
When planning to place an urn in an occupied casket, be sure to consult the cemetery ahead of time. Here are some important questions to ask:
– Do you allow urns to be buried in caskets here? Are there any restrictions?
– What is the maximum number of urns permitted per occupied grave?
– Do the urns need to meet any material, sealing or durability standards?
– Where in the casket should the urn be placed?
– What is the fee for an urn placement, and when is it to be paid?
– Is a separate permit, application or paperwork required for the urn?
– Can we conduct a joint burial service at the grave for both deceased?
– Are double depth graves available for future placements? What are the costs?
– Do you have any requirements for grave markings when an urn is placed?
– Will you keep records updated showing the grave contains an urn placement?
– Are there any other state or city regulations impacting the placement of cremated remains?
Thoroughly questioning the cemetery will ensure compliance with any regulations and a seamless burial process.
Conclusion
Placing cremated remains in a casket with another deceased person is permitted in most areas with some advance planning. Cemeteries may have specific rules about urns so it is crucial to check with them first before making plans. As long as the casket has room and the urn is durable, a joint casket burial provides a way for loved ones to remain together forever. With sensitivity to cultural customs and proper legal documentation, families can honor their loved one’s wishes for a shared resting place through eternity.