Funeral directors typically charge a **basic services fee** that includes handling all necessary paperwork and permits related to a death. This fee generally ranges from about **$1,200 to $2,200**, depending on the funeral home and location. This charge covers the filing of the death certificate, obtaining permits required by local and state authorities, securing authorizations for burial or cremation, and other administrative tasks essential to comply with legal and regulatory requirements[1][2][3].
The **basic services fee** is often non-declinable, meaning it is charged regardless of what other services the family chooses. It includes 24-hour availability of staff and equipment, coordination with cemeteries, crematories, and government offices, and clerical work such as completing forms and permits. For example, Sierra View Mortuary lists this fee between $1,695 and $2,195, explicitly stating it covers clerical assistance with paperwork and permits[3][5]. Another funeral home charges about $1,250 for these basic services, which also includes overhead costs like bookkeeping and general administration[2].
When medical aspects are involved, such as the need for a **death certificate** or **medical permits**, funeral directors handle the required documentation with care to ensure compliance with health regulations. The death certificate is a critical legal document that must be filed with the state, and funeral directors typically include the cost of obtaining and filing this certificate in their basic services fee. For instance, in Louisville, Kentucky, a death certificate costs about $6.00 each, and the funeral director will file this as part of their service[4].
If an autopsy or post-mortem examination is required, additional fees may apply. Some funeral homes charge separately for post-autopsy care, which can be around $300 or more, depending on the complexity of the medical procedures involved[2]. Removal of implanted medical devices such as pacemakers, which is necessary before cremation for safety reasons, may also incur extra charges[2].
Permits for cremation or burial are another important part of the paperwork funeral directors manage. These permits are mandatory to legally proceed with disposition and vary by jurisdiction. The funeral director ensures these permits are obtained promptly to avoid delays. The cost of these permits is sometimes included in the basic services fee but can also be itemized separately depending on the funeral home’s pricing structure[4].
In addition to the basic paperwork and permits, funeral directors may charge for other administrative services such as certified mailing of documents, international processing fees for deaths occurring abroad, or expedited processing fees if the family requests faster handling of paperwork. For example, Sierra View Mortuary charges $35 for mailing documents and up to $895 for foreign consulate or international processing fees[3].
Overall, the **paperwork and permit-related charges** are a significant part of the funeral director’s services and are embedded within the basic services fee, which averages around $2,100 nationally but can vary widely. Families should expect this fee to cover all legal and administrative tasks necessary to comply with medical and governmental regulations related to death[1][2][3][6].
Sources:
[1] Funeralocity – Average Funeral Cost Breakdown
[2] Altogether Funeral General Price List
[3] Sierra View Mortuary General Price List
[4] DFS Memorials Louisville Cremation Costs
[5] Sierra View Mortuary General Price List (duplicate)
[6] Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Homes FAQ
