What to do after a death in New Jersey

Quick facts

• Good to know: A licensed funeral director must oversee final disposition in New Jersey.

• Tip: You can keep the body at home for up to 48 hours before embalming or refrigeration is required.

Getting started in New Jersey

• New Jersey requires a licensed funeral director to file the death certificate and oversee final disposition.

• New Jersey has 2 agencies that regulate funerals: the Board of Mortuary Science and the Cemetery Board.

• New Jersey has detailed laws about who has the right to make funeral decisions.

Good to know: You can designate a funeral agent in writing to ensure your wishes are followed. This supersedes family hierarchy.

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. Emergency services will guide you.

• You can keep the body at home for up to 48 hours before embalming or refrigeration is required.

Hospice was involved

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

• Hospice can help coordinate with a funeral home of your choice.

• Take the time you need with your loved one.

No hospice involvement

• Call 911 for any unexpected death. This is required.

• The medical examiner may be notified depending on circumstances.

• Once cleared, contact a funeral home to arrange next steps.

If the death occurred at a hospital

• Hospital staff will handle pronouncement and guide you through paperwork.

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

• The hospital will ask which funeral home to contact. Take time to decide.

Cremation in New Jersey

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

• All cremations must be arranged through a licensed funeral director.

• A death certificate and cremation permit from the local registrar are required.

• Written consent from the legal authority must be provided via a court affidavit.

• A casket isn’t required. An alternative container is acceptable.

Burial in New Jersey

• Home burial on private property may be possible but is heavily restricted in New Jersey.

• The Cemetery Board states burial must occur on land dedicated for cemetery purposes.

• To bury on private property, you may need to apply for a Certificate of Authority.

• Check with your town clerk, health department, and the Cemetery Board before planning.

• If burial is permitted, file a map with the property deed.

Paperwork in New Jersey

• The funeral director files the death certificate with the local registrar.

• A burial permit must be obtained before interment or cremation.

• Certified copies cost $25 for the first copy, $2 for additional copies ordered at the same time.

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

• Online orders take 8–12 weeks; in-person requests offer same-day service.

Consumer rights in New Jersey

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

• Funeral homes must accept caskets purchased elsewhere without extra fees.

• Embalming isn’t required unless the body won’t be buried or cremated within 48 hours.

• New Jersey has extensive laws governing prepaid funeral contracts.

• File complaints with the Board of Mortuary Science or NJ Division of Consumer Affairs.