How Long Can a Funeral Home Hold a Body?

Most funeral homes can hold a body for 1 to 2 weeks without embalming. With embalming or refrigeration, storage can extend to 4 to 6 weeks or longer depending on state regulations and preservation method.

Without Embalming

Refrigeration keeps a body preserved for approximately 1 to 2 weeks at around 2 degrees Celsius. This is ideal for families planning a simple or quick service, and it's the standard option when there's no need for an open-casket viewing or extended delay.

With Embalming

Embalming can preserve a body for 4 to 6 weeks, and sometimes longer. It is most common when family members need to travel from out of town, when services are delayed for legal or religious reasons, or when the family wants an open-casket viewing.

State Regulations

There is no federal law setting a maximum holding period. Individual states set their own rules:

• Oregon requires funeral homes to report to the mortuary board after 10 days.
• Washington DC requires disposition within one week.
• Most states require embalming or refrigeration within 24 to 72 hours of death.

If you're unsure of the rules in your state, the funeral director will know — and they're required to follow them.

Daily Storage Fees

Most funeral homes charge a daily storage fee ranging from $35 to $100 once the standard holding period ends. Always ask up front so you know what to expect and when the fee begins to accrue.

Questions to Ask Your Funeral Home

• Do you charge for extended storage and what is the daily rate?
• What preservation method do you recommend for our timeline?
• How far in advance do we need to confirm arrangements?
• Are there any state requirements we should know about?