What to do after a death in Idaho

Quick facts

• Good to know: No mandatory waiting period before cremation.

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

Getting started in Idaho

• Idaho doesn’t require a funeral director. Families can conduct home funerals and handle paperwork directly.

• The state has flexible laws reflecting its Western traditions.

• The State Board of Morticians oversees funeral homes and includes a consumer representative.

Good to know: Idaho gives families significant freedom in how they care for loved ones. Take your time with decisions.

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 burial or cremation won’t occur within 24 hours, the body must be embalmed or refrigerated.

Hospice was involved

• The hospice nurse will pronounce death and complete necessary paperwork.

• Hospice can help coordinate with a funeral home or support home funeral plans.

• You can spend time with your loved one. There’s no immediate rush.

No hospice involvement

• Call 911 for any unexpected death. The coroner will be notified.

• The coroner determines if investigation is needed.

• Once cleared, you can proceed with a funeral home or direct family arrangements.

If the death occurred at a hospital

• Hospital staff will help with initial paperwork.

• You can stay with your loved one and take your time.

• The hospital will ask about your plans. You don’t have to decide immediately.

Cremation in Idaho

• Idaho has no mandatory waiting period before cremation, unlike many other states.

• A Cremation Authorization Form must be signed by the legal next of kin.

• The coroner must issue a cremation permit before proceeding.

• A casket isn’t required. An alternative container is acceptable.

• Water cremation (alkaline hydrolysis) was legalized in Idaho in 2014.

Burial in Idaho

• Home burial on private property is allowed. Check with your county or town clerk for local requirements.

• There’s no state law specifically prohibiting private burials on private property.

• Draw a map showing the burial location and file it with the property deed.

• Some counties require disclosure of graves to future property buyers.

• A casket isn’t required by state law.

Paperwork in Idaho

• The death certificate must be filed with the local registrar within 5 days of death.

• The medical certification portion must be completed within 72 hours.

• Certified copies cost $16 from the state, or up to $36.50 through VitalChek online.

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

• Processing takes 2–3 weeks for rush orders, 3–5 weeks for standard orders.

Consumer rights in Idaho

• You have the right to an itemized General Price List before making decisions.

• Federal law requires funeral homes to accept caskets purchased elsewhere without surcharges.

• Embalming isn’t required unless the body will be held more than 24 hours without refrigeration.

• Preneed funeral contracts have trust fund protections with refund rights.

• File complaints with the Idaho Board of Morticians at 208-334-3233.