Funeral Rule - Embalming

Embalming

Many funeral homes require embalming if a viewing or visitation is planned, however, there is no federal or state law that dictates that embalming is required and a funeral home is prohibited from stating that any such law exists.

The Funeral Rule established the following embalming guidelines: - Embalming cannot be done without specific permission from the customer - Funeral homes may not claim that embalming is a legal requirement, except in certain special circumstances, and provide written disclosure of such - Customers may not be charged for embalming without their permission unless it was required by state law in certain special circumstances - The customer must receive written disclosure stating that individuals usually have the right to choose a disposition that does not require embalming, such as direct cremation or immediate burial, which do not require embalming - Written disclosure must be made if a funeral arrangement, such a viewing or visitation, may require embalming as a practical necessity and therefore, a required purchase