What to do after a death in Florida

Quick facts

• Good to know: A funeral director isn’t required. Families can handle arrangements directly.

• Tip: Order at least 10 certified death certificates for legal and financial matters.

Getting started in Florida

• Florida doesn’t require a licensed funeral director. Families can handle arrangements themselves.

• The Division of Funeral, Cemetery, and Consumer Services provides free consumer assistance.

• Florida has strong consumer protections for preneed funeral contracts.

Good to know: You have the right to be involved in caring for your loved one as much or as little as you choose.

First 24–72 hours

If the death occurred at home

• Call the attending physician or hospice if one was involved.

• For unexpected deaths, call 911. They’ll guide you through required steps.

• If not embalmed, the body must be refrigerated or final disposition must occur within 24 hours.

Hospice was involved

• The hospice nurse will pronounce death and handle initial paperwork.

• Hospice can coordinate with your funeral home or help you plan a home funeral.

• Take the time you need before your loved one is moved.

No hospice involvement

• Call 911 for any unexpected death. This is required.

• The medical examiner will be notified to determine if investigation is needed.

• Once cleared, you can proceed with funeral arrangements.

If the death occurred at a hospital

• Hospital staff will help with immediate paperwork.

• You can stay with your loved one and there’s no rush to leave.

• The hospital will ask about funeral arrangements. Take time to decide.

Cremation in Florida

• Florida requires a 48-hour waiting period after death before cremation.

• There’s an additional 24-hour wait after the cremation authorization is signed.

• The medical examiner must give written consent before cremation can proceed.

• All legal next-of-kin must sign the cremation authorization and be in agreement.

• Ashes must be claimed within 120 days or the crematory may dispose of them.

Caution: The 48-hour waiting period is longer than most states. Plan accordingly if time is a factor.

Burial in Florida

• Home burial on private property is allowed. No state law prohibits it.

• Family cemeteries under 2 acres are permitted and don’t require licensing.

• Check local county and city zoning ordinances before planning a home burial.

• You’ll need a burial-transit permit from the county registrar within 5 days of death.

• Consider future property sales. Buyers must be informed of any burials.

Paperwork in Florida

• The funeral director (or person acting as one) must file the death certificate within 5 days.

• The medical certifier has 72 hours to complete the cause of death section.

• Certified copies are $10 each at county health departments.

• Plan to order at least 10 copies for insurance, banks, and legal matters.

• Processing takes 3–5 business days; rush orders cost an additional $10.

Consumer rights in Florida

• You have the right to an itemized statement of all costs.

• Funeral homes must provide a General Price List before discussing arrangements.

• Contact the Division of Funeral, Cemetery, and Consumer Services at 850-413-3039.

• In-state toll-free: 800-323-2627.

• The Preneed Funeral Contract Consumer Protection Trust Fund protects prepaid contracts.