What to Do With Your Ashes

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Can Ashes Be Separated? When a loved one is cremated, families often find comfort in keeping their memory close through cremation urns, keepsakes, or jewelry. A common question we hear is: “Can ashes be separated into more than one urn or keepsake?” The short answer is yes—but there are important legal and procedural steps you should know about before making this decision. Why Families Choose to Separate Ashes Many families wish to share cremated remains among multiple loved ones. This can mean: Dividing ashes into smaller urns for siblings, children, or parents. Placing a portion of ashes in keepsake jewelry or small keepsake urns. Creating a meaningful memorial in different locations—for example, one urn in the family home and another buried or placed in a columbarium. Legal Requirements for Separation While the desire is understandable, it’s important to know that separating ashes is not just a personal choice—it requires a separate permit. Each container, whether it’s a full-size urn, a keepsake urn, or a piece of cremation jewelry, must be accounted for by law. This ensures that every portion of remains is properly documented and handled with dignity and respect. Cremation Permit : Issued by the local authority, this document allows for cremation and outlines how remains are to be handled. Disposition Permits : If ashes are to be placed in multiple urns or keepsakes, additional permits must be obtained for each. This legal safeguard ensures transparency and protects families when transporting or memorializing remains. What Families Should Do If you are considering separating ashes, here’s what to keep in mind: Discuss with your funeral director. They will guide you through the necessary paperwork and permits. Decide how ashes will be divided. Plan ahead which family members will receive keepsakes or urns. Secure permits in advance. This avoids delays and ensures everything is done legally and respectfully. The Importance of Doing It Right Separating ashes can be a beautiful way of honoring a loved one across multiple households or memorial settings. However, it’s equally important to follow the proper legal process to avoid complications later. By obtaining the required permits, families can ensure their loved one’s remains are cared for with the highest level of dignity. Torres Mortuary

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Losing a loved one is never easy. Along with the emotions and grief, families are often faced with an overwhelming amount of paperwork. One of the most important documents you will need during this time is the death certificate. Many families wonder: What exactly are death certificates used for, and how many do I really need? What Is a Death Certificate? A death certificate is an official government document that records the date, time, location, and cause of death. It serves as legal proof that a person has passed away. In most cases, the funeral home can assist you in requesting certified copies directly. Funeral directors work with these documents often and can guide you through the process. Alternatively, you can request them from your state or county’s vital records office. You will need to provide identification and documentation that confirms your relationship to your loved one.  Why Are Death Certificates Needed? Death certificates are required in a wide range of legal, financial, and personal matters. Here are the most common situations: 1. Insurance Claims Life insurance, health insurance, and burial or funeral insurance companies will all require certified copies before releasing benefits. Having these documents early can help cover funeral expenses and other costs. 2. Burial or Cremation (Final Disposition) Cemeteries and crematories cannot move forward with final arrangements without an official death certificate. 3. Asset Transfers From cars to homes, a death certificate is needed to legally transfer titles and property ownership. 4. Bank and Financial Accounts Banks and financial institutions will require a death certificate before closing or transferring accounts, including savings, checking, and investment accounts. 5. Retirement Benefits 401(k) plans, pensions, and other retirement income sources also require certified copies to process benefits or transfer them to a surviving spouse or beneficiary. 6. Legal or Medical Investigations If a death occurs under unusual or suspicious circumstances, government officials may use the death certificate for investigations. Updates to the cause of death can be made if needed. 7. Taxes One final federal and state tax return must be filed for your loved one. A death certificate is required to complete this process. How Many Death Certificates Should You Order? While every situation is unique, most families need 10–20 certified copies . Some may require fewer, but it is always better to have extra on hand. Plan ahead: Review your loved one’s estate, assets, and accounts to estimate how many certified copies you will need. Keep a few spares: Order at least two to three more than you think you’ll need. These can be helpful in case of unexpected requirements. Ask your funeral director: If you’re uncertain, your funeral director can recommend the right number of copies based on your circumstances. Torres Mortuary Is Here to Help At Torres Mortuary, we understand how overwhelming this process can be. Our caring team is here to guide you through each step, from obtaining certified copies of death certificates to handling the many details that follow a loss. If you have questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to make sure you and your family feel supported every step of the way.