Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Who notifies Social Security? We will send the initial death notification to Social Security. Anytime a death occurs, Social Security must be notified. We will send the initial notification of death to the local SSA office (SSA Form 721) to inform them of the death. We then encourage the family to call Social Security at their earliest convenience to determine if benefits will need to be returned to Social Security and to determine if the survivor qualifies for any Survivor Benefits from Social Security. For more information on this subject, please visit the Social Security Administration website. 
Back to TopHow long does it normally take to complete a cremation? In Florida, it can take several days to complete the cremation process. Since cremation is irreversible, there are several safe-guards in place to insure that a cremation is not performed prematurely. Florida law requires a mandatory 48 hour waiting period from the time of death as a minimum waiting period. In addition to this waiting period, the law requires that the Death Certificate be completed and signed by the certifying physician AND approved by the Medical Examiner in whose jurisdiction the death occured. While physicians normally sign the death certificate as quickly as their busy schedules allow, it may take a few days sometimes to get the Death Certificate through this certification process. Although this certification process before cremation does require some time, it also insures that cremations are not performed before any questions about the cause of death have been adequately answered. The staff at Alavon Direct Cremation Service will always make every effort to complete the cremation for you as promptly as procedural requirements will allow.
Back to TopDo I have to place an Obituary Notice? Obituary Notices placed in newspapers are OPTIONAL and are not required. If you wish to remain private and be selective of who is notified of a death, you are not required to publish a public obituary notice.
Back to TopIs There a Charge for an Obituary Notice? Be very careful when placing an obituary notice as there may be a substantial fee. IMPORTANT: MOST NEWSPAPERS NOW CHARGE FOR OBITUARY NOTICES!
Back to TopHow do I obtain Death Certificates? Our staff will provide with the forms and assist you in obtaining any required Certified Copies of Death Certificates. Death Certificates are available through the Vital Statistics office of the county in which the death occured. The original death certificate form originates in our office and is then carried to the certifiying physician by hand. As soon as the death certificate is completed by the physician and approved by the Medical Examiner, it is delivered to the local Vital Statistics office where it is officially filed. After it is filed, the Vital Statistics office will provided CERTIFIED COPIES of the death certificate. Each county sets a fee for each certified copy, for example, Volusia county currently charges $7 for each certified copy. We will provide you with all necessary forms and information so that you may obtain certified copies from the Vital Statistics office. For more information, you may visit their website by using the following link: Volusia County Vital Statistics
Back to TopHow many Death Certificates will I need? The number of Death Certificates you require will depend on your individual circumstances. Death certificates are normally required to settle the affairs of the deceased, therefore, the number required will be dependant upon the quantity and status of these assets. We will assist by providing a list of common instances where death certificates may be required. In certain cases, you may wish to consult with your legal advisor on this topic.
Back to TopCan I just make my own copies of the Death Certificate? No, you are not supposed to use photocopies in lieu of Certified Copies of the Death Certificate. The Certified Copy of the Death Certificate is printed on special safety paper and has a raised seal. Photocopies are not usually allowed.
Back to TopCan I have a Memorial Service at Alavon? Alavon Direct Cremation Service does not provide Memorial Services. Alavon Direct Cremation Service is licensed by the State of Florida as a Direct Disposal Establishment. This means that we may not provide any ceremonies such as a viewing, a visitation, or memorial service, but it does not mean you may not have a Memorial Service.
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What are my
benefits as a Veteran? Any honorably discharged veteran is entitled to certain benefits upon death, but may not always be eligible for monetary benefits. To determine whether you qualify for monetary benefits or reimbursements, we encourage you to speak with a local county Veterans Services representative: Volusia County , Flagler County or call the Veterans Administration directly.
Back to TopDoes Social Security or the VA ever pay for the cremation? Social Security does not pay for final arrangements. While some survivors my be eligible for a survivor benefit, it will be only be sent to the survivor and cannot be assigned by a funeral home or cremation service. For more information, visit the Social Security Administration website.The VA may pay a partial reimbursement to the survivor for final expenses. While the VA does partially reimburse some veterans for final expenses, it is normally only available if the veteran was receiving monetary benefits from the VA during life (i.e., retirement, disability, etc.). Determining if a veteran is eligible for monetary benefits or reimbursements can be complicated. We encourage you to speak with a local county Veterans Services representative: Volusia County , Flagler County or call the Veterans Administration directly to learn more about your eligibility.
Back to TopIf you have any further questions which were not answered here, please contact us by telephone or email and we'll be glad to try to answer your questions.
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© 2003 Alavon Direct
Cremation Service. All Rights Reserved.
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