What Death Documentation Needs to be Filed

Just like there is birth and marriage documentation, there is death documentation.

Requirements

Death documentation is governed at the state level. The requirements include:

• What documents to submit
• How much a required documents cost
• Who needs to authorize a document prior to submission
• Where a document needs to be submitted
• When a document needs to be submitted

Be sure to submit all documents using certified mail so that you have a record of the submission.

Documents

In addition to filing death related documentation with the state, you will want to retain a copy for the estate. You should obtain multiple copies of the death certificate for probate, for bereavement fares, etc.

• Death certification: All states require that death be documented and registered with the state health department. The death certificate documents the cause of death and method of disposition.
• Transportation authorization: While most states allow non-licensed individuals to transport a body, it is necessary to have authorization from the health department. Be aware that transportation permits may only be valid for the state where issued. Transporting a body across state lines may require multiple permits.
• Disposition authorization: States require disposition authorization to document the circumstances of death., A authorized medical professional must grant permission to proceed with disposition, whether burial or cremation. This document is presented to the funeral care provider performing the disposition.
• Cremation authorization: This document is required by the funeral care provider because next-of-kin may object to cremation (when no funeral directive exists or is not supported by state statute). This is one document that does not require an official signature. In many states, an individual may sign one’s own cremation authorization. In any other state or in the absence of a self-signed authorization, the next-of-kin, as defined by state statute, can sign the authorization.

Representation

Traditionally, funeral care providers process the death related paperwork. However, in all states, individuals have the right to do so as well. Handling the paperwork yourself is a trade-off between time and money.

Assistance

You can get assistance with death related paperwork from:

• Funeral care providers
• Home funeral organizations / Death doulas
• Memorial societies
• State health departments
• Estate attorneys