Body Preservation and Embalming
Preservative Processes and Products
As far back as the ancient Egyptians, people have used oils,
herbs and special body preparations to help preserve the bodies of
their dead. Yet, no process or products have been devised to
preserve a body in the grave indefinitely. The Funeral Rule
prohibits funeral providers from telling you that it can be done.
For example, funeral providers may not claim that either embalming
or a particular type of casket will preserve the body for an
unlimited time.
Body Preservation and Embalming
Many funeral homes require embalming if you're planning a
viewing or visitation. But embalming generally is not necessary or
legally required if the body is buried or cremated shortly after
death. Eliminating this service can save you hundreds of dollars.
Under the Funeral Rule, a funeral provider:
- may not provide embalming services without permission.
- may not falsely state that embalming is required by law.
- must disclose in writing that embalming is not required by law,
except in certain special cases.
- may not charge a fee for unauthorized embalming unless
embalming is required by state law.
- must disclose in writing that you usually have the right to
choose a disposition, such as direct cremation or immediate burial,
that does not require embalming if you do not want this
service.
- must disclose in writing that some funeral arrangements, such
as a funeral with viewing, may make embalming a practical necessity
and, if so, a required purchase.
