What to do after a death in Massachusetts

Quick facts

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

• Tip: Death certificates are public record and available to anyone.

Getting started in Massachusetts

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

• The Board of Registration in Embalming provides oversight of funeral professionals.

• Local Boards of Health regulate burials and can provide guidance on home burial.

Good to know: You have the right to be as involved as you wish in caring for your loved one, including handling all arrangements yourself.

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 can keep the body at home while making arrangements.

Hospice was involved

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

• Hospice can help coordinate next steps or support a home funeral.

• Take the time you need with your loved one.

No hospice involvement

• Call 911 for any unexpected death.

• The medical examiner may need to review the circumstances.

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

If the death occurred at a hospital

• Hospital staff will help with immediate paperwork.

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

• You can arrange transportation yourself or use a funeral home.

Cremation in Massachusetts

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

• The medical examiner must grant permission before cremation can occur.

• A death certificate, burial/disposition permit, and cremation permit are required.

• The body must be viewed by a medical examiner prior to cremation.

• No casket is required. An alternative container is acceptable.

Burial in Massachusetts

• Home burial isn’t prohibited by state law but requires local Board of Health approval.

• Approval is also needed from the Department of Environmental Protection and local government.

• The burial must not violate water supply protection bylaws.

• A burial permit from the Board of Health is required.

• The burial location should be noted on the property deed.

Paperwork in Massachusetts

• Death certificates are public record. Anyone can obtain a copy.

• Certified copies cost $10–14 depending on location and ordering method.

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

• Copies are available from the city or town clerk where the death occurred.

• Mail orders through the State Registry cost $32 including a 10-year search.

Consumer rights in Massachusetts

• You can handle all arrangements yourself without a funeral director.

• Funeral homes must provide an itemized General Price List upon request.

• You only need to pay for goods and services you specifically choose.

• Embalming isn’t required except in specific circumstances.

• File complaints with the Division of Occupational Licensure at (617) 701-7406.