What can happen if cremains are unclaimed for over 60 days?

The correct response indicates that if cremains are unclaimed for over 60 days, they can be disposed of in a dignified manner. This procedure aligns with ethical and professional standards within the funeral industry, as it recognizes the importance of treating human remains with respect and care, even if they are unclaimed.

Professionally, this approach may take many forms, such as scattering in a designated area, interment in a communal grave, or other respectful means of disposition. The need for such measures arises from the balance between respecting the deceased and the logistical and policy frameworks that govern funeral practices. This policy also underscores the responsibility of funeral directors and cremation facilities to manage unclaimed remains in a way that upholds the dignity of individuals and meets legal obligations.

Other options do not align generally with the established practices surrounding unclaimed cremains, making them less suitable. For instance, returning the cremains to the authorizing agent assumes there is someone to return them to, which isn’t the case for unclaimed remains. Storing cremains indefinitely may not be practical or respectful, and selling them to cover costs would be ethically inappropriate and generally not permissible.