What to do after a death in Missouri

Quick facts

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

• Tip: Family burial grounds must be deeded to the county commission within 60 days.

Getting started in Missouri

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

• The State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors regulates funeral establishments and preneed contracts.

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

Good to know: Missouri allows families flexibility in caring for their loved ones. Take time to understand your options.

First 24–72 hours

If the death occurred at home

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

• For unexpected deaths, call 911.

• You need permission from a physician, medical examiner, or coroner before moving the body.

Hospice was involved

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

• Hospice can help coordinate with your chosen funeral home.

• Take the time you need before your loved one is moved.

No hospice involvement

• Call 911 for any unexpected death.

• The medical examiner or coroner may need to be involved.

• Once death is certified, you can proceed with arrangements.

If the death occurred at a hospital

• Hospital staff will help with immediate documentation.

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

• The hospital will ask about funeral arrangements. Take your time to decide.

Cremation in Missouri

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

• The cause of death must be established and a death certificate filed before cremation.

• All cremations must occur at a licensed funeral establishment.

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

• If using a funeral director, the body must be embalmed, refrigerated, or placed in a sealed casket within 24 hours.

Burial in Missouri

• Family burial grounds are permitted on private property under 1 acre.

• The cemetery must be deeded in trust to the county commission.

• Record the deed with the county clerk within 60 days of establishing the burial ground.

• Burial plots should be at least 150 feet from water supplies and 25 feet from property lines.

• Check local zoning regulations and health department rules before proceeding.

Paperwork in Missouri

• The death certificate must be filed within 5 days of death and before final disposition.

• Certified copies cost $14 for the first copy, $11 for additional copies ordered together.

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

• Natural cause deaths process in 1–2 weeks; other causes may take up to 12 weeks.

• Copies available from local health departments for deaths since 1980.

Consumer rights in Missouri

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

• The Board examines all preneed sellers to ensure consumer funds are protected.

• File complaints with the Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors at (573) 751-0813.

• For unresolved issues, contact the Missouri Attorney General’s Consumer Hotline at 800-392-8222.

• Beware of unlicensed entities. Verify licenses before purchasing services.