What to do after a death in Illinois

Quick facts

• Good to know: A licensed funeral director is required for home burials.

• Tip: Illinois has a 24-hour waiting period before cremation, which is shorter than in most states.

Getting started in Illinois

• Illinois requires a licensed funeral director for home burials, but not for all arrangements.

• The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation oversees funeral homes.

• Strong preneed contract protections exist through the State Comptroller’s office.

Good to know: Illinois has robust consumer protections. Ask questions and take time with your decisions.

First 24–72 hours

If the death occurred at home

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

• If the death was unexpected, call 911.

• There’s no immediate rush to move your loved one.

Hospice was involved

• The hospice nurse will pronounce death and assist with documentation.

• Hospice can help coordinate with your chosen funeral provider.

• You can spend time with your loved one before they’re moved.

No hospice involvement

• Call 911 if the death was unexpected.

• The coroner or medical examiner may be involved depending on circumstances.

• Once death is pronounced, contact a funeral home to discuss your options.

If the death occurred at a hospital

• Hospital staff will guide you through initial paperwork.

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

• Take your time choosing a funeral provider.

Cremation in Illinois

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

• You must arrange cremation through a licensed funeral director.

• All legal next-of-kin must unanimously consent to cremation.

• A casket isn’t required. A rigid, combustible container is acceptable.

• The death certificate must be filed within 7 days and before cremation.

Burial in Illinois

• Home burial on private property isn’t prohibited by state law.

• A licensed funeral director is required to facilitate home burials in Illinois.

• Check local zoning laws with your county or town clerk before proceeding.

• File a map of the burial location with the property deed for future reference.

• Embalming isn’t required by Illinois law.

Paperwork in Illinois

• The death certificate must be filed with the local registrar within 7 days of death.

• Certified copies cost $35 for the first copy, $10 for additional copies ordered at the same time.

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

• Processing by mail takes approximately 12 weeks.

• For urgent needs, use overnight delivery with proof of immediate need for 5–7 business day processing.

Consumer rights in Illinois

• All preneed contracts must be funded through insurance, annuity, or trust.

• Funeral providers must present itemized statements before agreements are finalized.

• The Illinois Pre-Need Funeral Consumer Protection Fund can help if a provider fails to deliver services.

• File complaints with the State Comptroller’s PLACE Division or call (888) 473-4858.

• Preneed sellers must be licensed by the State of Illinois.