What to do after a death in New Hampshire

Quick facts

• Good to know: A funeral director isn’t required. Families can file paperwork directly.

• Tip: Home burial is legal on family property with proper documentation.

Getting started in New Hampshire

• New Hampshire doesn’t require a funeral director. Families can handle arrangements themselves.

• The death certificate can be filed directly with the Town Clerk at no cost.

• Home burial on family property is permitted with proper documentation.

Good to know: New Hampshire gives families significant flexibility in caring for their loved ones and handling arrangements.

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 pronounce death and can help with paperwork.

• Hospice can coordinate with a funeral home 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 be involved.

• 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 initial paperwork.

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

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

Cremation in New Hampshire

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

• A medical examiner must authorize each cremation.

• Written authorization from next of kin is required.

• Pacemakers must be removed before cremation.

• No casket is required. A basic cremation container is acceptable.

Burial in New Hampshire

• Home burial is legal for relatives on family property.

• The site must be at least 100 feet from any dwelling and 50 feet from water sources.

• The burial must be recorded on the property deed upon transfer.

• A public right of way for family access must be documented.

• Local zoning regulations must also be followed.

Paperwork in New Hampshire

• Death certificates must be filed electronically within 36 hours of death.

• Original paperwork must follow within 10 days.

• Certified copies cost $15 for the first copy, $10 for additional copies ordered same time.

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

• Any city or town clerk can provide copies for deaths occurring in NH.

Consumer rights in New Hampshire

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

• Prepaid funeral funds must be deposited in a NH bank or licensed insurance/trust company.

• Embalming isn’t required unless there will be public viewing after 24 hours.

• Grave liners and vaults aren’t required by state law.

• File complaints with the Board of Registration of Funeral Directors and Embalmers.