You have an IMPORTANT ERROR in your next to last sentence, “Only those in very unusual or special circumstances – someone with no family or friends to make disposition arrangements, or someone who is making final arrangements before becoming eligible for Medicaid – actually need to pre-pay for burial or cremation. One does NOT become old enough for Medicaid, but for Medicare. Medicaid is for the financially needed. I am unaware that either Medicare or Medicaid pays for cremation. Can you provide details?