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Cremation or burial without a funeral director

How to arrange a funeral without using the services of a funeral director

Advice if you're considering arranging a funeral

It is often assumed that a funeral for cremation or burial can only be arranged with the services of a Funeral Director. This is not the case, but the Funeral Director will undertake many of the requirements that help make the process of paperwork and practical arrangements feel less of a burden. 

The only legal requirements are:

  • the death must be certified and registered within the registration district for the area where death occurred
  • the correct statutory paperwork is produced at least three workings days before the funeral can take place
  • the body must be buried or cremated

If you're considering arranging a funeral for a deceased person, we suggest that you carefully read our Arranging a Funeral without a Funeral Director guide before reaching a decision. You can find this guide in our document downloads below.