Planning tool

Home funeral checklist

37 items across six stages — from the first hours through final disposition, memorial, and the days that follow.

Immediate steps (first 1–4 hours)

Note the exact time of death.
If your loved one was in hospice, call the hospice nurse — they handle the official pronouncement and guide you through the immediate steps.
If not in hospice, call the attending physician to come and pronounce death and certify the cause on the death certificate.
If the physician is unavailable, contact your county medical examiner or coroner's office.
Do not call 911 unless the death was unexpected or unattended — emergency services involvement can complicate a home funeral.
Notify close family members and allow the household to settle. There is no rush.

31 more items in 5 sections

Documentation, body care, disposition, memorial & after

Understand the process

Walk through each step in plain language.

How it works →

Your state's rules

Check what's specifically allowed where you are.

State guides →

This checklist is for educational purposes only. Laws vary by state — always verify current requirements with your county registrar or health department.