What to do after a death in Georgia

Quick facts

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

• Tip: File the death certificate within 72 hours to avoid delays.

Getting started in Georgia

• Georgia doesn’t require a licensed funeral director. Families can make their own arrangements.

• The Georgia State Board of Funeral Service and the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division both handle complaints.

• The death certificate must be filed within 72 hours.

Good to know: Georgia gives families flexibility in how they care for their loved ones. Take time to explore your options.

First 24–72 hours

If the death occurred at home

• If hospice or a physician was involved, contact them first.

• For unexpected deaths, call 911.

• You can keep the body at home while making arrangements.

Hospice was involved

• The hospice nurse will come to pronounce death.

• They’ll help complete paperwork and can coordinate with a funeral home.

• There’s no rush. Take the time you need.

No hospice involvement

• Call 911 for unexpected deaths. The medical examiner may need to be involved.

• Under the Georgia Death Investigation Act, certain deaths require inquiry.

• Once cleared, you can proceed with your chosen arrangements.

If the death occurred at a hospital

• Hospital staff will guide you through paperwork.

• You can spend time with your loved one before leaving.

• Take time to decide on a funeral home. You don’t have to choose immediately.

Cremation in Georgia

• Georgia requires a 24-hour waiting period after death before cremation.

• A cremation authorization form must be signed by the next of kin.

• The county vital records registrar must issue a final disposition permit first.

• Cremations must be performed in state-licensed facilities.

• Remains can be scattered at sea within 50 days, at least 3 miles from shore.

Burial in Georgia

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

• Check local county ordinances. Some areas have restrictions.

• Some counties require minimum lot sizes (e.g., Pike County requires 5 acres).

• A casket isn’t required by state law, though cemeteries may have rules.

• Burial vaults aren’t required by state law.

Paperwork in Georgia

• The death certificate must be filed with the county registrar within 72 hours.

• Medical certification of cause of death must also be completed within 72 hours.

• Certified copies cost $25 for the first copy, $5 for each additional.

• Plan to order 8–10 copies for banks, insurance, and legal matters.

• Mail-in requests take 8–10 weeks; visit a county office for faster service.

Consumer rights in Georgia

• You have the right to receive an itemized General Price List.

• Embalming isn’t legally required in Georgia.

• Funeral homes must accept caskets or urns purchased elsewhere.

• File complaints with the Georgia State Board of Funeral Service through the Secretary of State.

• The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division handles deceptive practice complaints.