What to do after a death in Kentucky

Quick facts

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

• Tip: A coroner permit is required before cremation can proceed.

Getting started in Kentucky

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

• The Kentucky Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors regulates funeral homes.

• Death certificates must be filed within 5 days of death.

Good to know: You have the right to be as involved as you wish in caring for your loved one.

First 24–72 hours

If the death occurred at home

• Contact the attending physician or hospice nurse if one was involved.

• For unexpected deaths, call 911.

• You’ll need a provisional death certificate before moving or burying the body.

Hospice was involved

• The hospice nurse will come to pronounce death and help with paperwork.

• Hospice can coordinate with your chosen funeral home or guide home arrangements.

• Take the time you need with your loved one.

No hospice involvement

• Call 911 for any unexpected death.

• The coroner or county health department will issue the provisional death certificate.

• Once you have this document, you can proceed with arrangements.

If the death occurred at a hospital

• Hospital staff will help with immediate paperwork.

• The facility will issue the provisional death certificate.

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

Cremation in Kentucky

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

• A permit from the coroner is required before cremation can occur.

• The next of kin must sign a cremation authorization form.

• Some crematories require a funeral director. Check before choosing a provider.

• Pacemakers and other medical devices must be disclosed and removed.

Burial in Kentucky

• Home burial on private property is allowed. Check local zoning rules first.

• A provisional death certificate serves as the burial permit.

• Family cemeteries restrict interments to those related by blood or marriage.

• Burial vaults aren’t required by state law, though many cemeteries require them.

• If burying on private land, file a map with the property deed showing the burial location.

Paperwork in Kentucky

• The death certificate must be filed within 5 days of death.

• Certified copies cost $6 each from the Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics.

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

• In-person service is available in Frankfort; mail orders take up to 30 business days.

• Phone and online orders through VitalChek are faster but cost more.

Consumer rights in Kentucky

• You have the right to a General Price List and can choose only the services you want.

• Funeral homes must accept caskets purchased from third-party sellers without surcharge.

• Embalming isn’t legally required in Kentucky.

• File complaints with the Kentucky Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors: (502) 426-4589.

• Kentucky allows a ‘funeral planning declaration’ to name someone to carry out your wishes.