Guide
Options for the body after death
Burial and flame cremation are not the only choices. Here is each other option in plain words, and what the law says in each state.
- Human compostingAlso called natural organic reduction, terramationThe body becomes soil in a closed vessel. Legal only in states whose law allows it.
- Water cremationAlso called alkaline hydrolysis, aquamationWater, alkaline chemicals and heat in place of flame. Allowed in some states, and not every state that allows it has a facility.
- Home funeralsAlso called family-directed funeral, home vigilThe family cares for the person at home. Some states let the family file the paperwork; some give it to a funeral director.
- Green burialAlso called natural burial, eco-friendly burialBurial without embalming, often in a shroud or simple casket. The Green Burial Council certifies cemeteries and funeral homes.
- Scattering ashesAlso called scattering cremated remains, burial at seaAt sea, federal law applies: at least 3 nautical miles out, and tell the EPA within 30 days. On land, state and local rules.
- Body donationAlso called whole-body donation, willed body program, anatomical giftGiving the body to a medical school for teaching and research. Each state has a board or university programs.
Faith and family traditions
Many traditions have their own rules about burial, cremation and timing. Our guides to faith and culture customs cover six of them.
Common questions
- What are the options besides burial and cremation?
- Depending on the state: human composting (natural organic reduction), water cremation (alkaline hydrolysis), green burial, and whole-body donation to a medical school. A family may also care for the person at home before any of these.
- How do I know what is legal in my state?
- Each option's page has a table for all 50 states and DC. Where we read the law, it shows the citation, a link to the official source and the date we checked it. Where we have not, it says so and links to the state's funeral regulator.
Funeral homes near you
Call two or three homes and compare their written price lists.