Cremation Planning Checklist

• Notify the attending physician, hospice, or 911 (if the death was unexpected) so the death can be pronounced
• Locate any written funeral wishes, pre-need contract, or will
• Identify who has legal authority to authorize cremation under your state's law

• List two or three licensed funeral homes or cremation providers
• Check each provider's license with your state licensing board
• Ask whether the provider operates its own crematory or uses a third party

Read: how to find a reputable provider →

• Request each provider's General Price List (prices must be given by phone if you ask)
• Ask for the price of direct cremation and what it includes
• Enter quotes in the provider comparison worksheet

Open the provider comparison worksheet →

• Complete and sign the cremation authorization form
• Confirm whether a medical examiner or coroner review is required
• Confirm any state waiting period before cremation

Read: paperwork needed for cremation →

• Choose direct cremation or cremation with a viewing or service
• Decide whether embalming is wanted (it is generally not required for direct cremation)
• Select a cremation container (an alternative container is acceptable)

• Confirm transfer from the place of death, and any mileage charges
• If remains will travel by air, ask about airline and TSA rules for urns

• Estimate the urn size you need
• Decide on a permanent urn, temporary container, keepsakes, or a scattering urn
• Remember you may buy an urn from any seller

Open the urn size calculator →

• Choose a date, place, and format for any memorial gathering
• Prepare an obituary or death notice
• Arrange photos, readings, music, and printed programs

• Estimate how many certified copies you need (banks, insurers, Social Security, pensions, property)
• Order certified copies through the funeral provider or vital records office

• Decide on keeping, burying, placing in a columbarium, or scattering the cremated remains
• Check local rules and permissions for scattering
• Collect the cremated remains and keep the cremation certificate with them