6+ Licenses and Permits You May Need to Open a Funeral Home

Opening a funeral home is a unique and rewarding business venture that not only provides an essential service to the community but also offers solace and comfort to grieving families during their time of need. However, like any other business, starting a funeral home requires navigating through a complex web of legal requirements, licenses, and permits. These regulations are in place to ensure that funeral homes adhere to the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and safety. In this article, we will delve into the top six licenses and permits you may need to obtain before opening your funeral home. By understanding and acquiring the necessary documentation, you can ensure that your funeral home operates smoothly and legally, allowing you to focus on providing compassionate and dignified services to your clients.

image of author
Written by:
Newfoundr
Updated on:
April 17, 2023
image of Funeral Home licenses
Our #1 recommend business formation partner:
Image of Zenbusiness logo
ZenBusiness
Image of full star review ratingImage of full star review ratingImage of full star review ratingImage of half a star review rating
Form your LLC Dream Business in minutes.

Get worry-free services and support to launch your business starting at $0 plus state fees.

Subscribe to our newsletter
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
More Helpful Content
Table of Contents:

Our List of 6+ Licenses and Permits You May Need to Open a Funeral Home:

Below is a list of possible Funeral Home licenses and permits needed. Please note it will vary state by state, so please do extensive research before starting.

1. Funeral Director License.

A Funeral Director License is a legal requirement in most states in the United States for anyone who wishes to operate a funeral home or provide funeral services. This license is issued by the state's licensing board after the applicant has completed a specific educational and training program, passed an examination, and met other state-mandated requirements.The Funeral Director License ensures that the funeral home operator has the necessary knowledge, skills, and training to handle all aspects of funeral services, including embalming, cremation, funeral planning, and legal requirements. A licensed funeral director is also responsible for ensuring that all funeral services are conducted in a professional, ethical, and compassionate manner.Without a Funeral Director License, it is illegal to operate a funeral home or provide funeral services, and the business may face legal consequences. Therefore, obtaining a Funeral Director License is a crucial step in starting a funeral home.

Check if your state requires a Funeral Director License.

Skip the hassle of creating a business plan yourself.

With LivePlan you can easily write your business plan, secure funding, and get insights from experts.
Start your business plan →
Image of liveplan business formation

2. Funeral Establishment License.

A Funeral Establishment License is a legal document issued by the state or local government that allows an individual or entity to operate a funeral home or mortuary. This license ensures that the funeral home is operating in compliance with all state and federal regulations, including those related to the handling and disposition of human remains.To start a funeral home, you will need to obtain a Funeral Establishment License to operate legally. This license is necessary to ensure that you are meeting all the legal requirements for operating a funeral home, including obtaining the necessary permits, registering with the state, and complying with all applicable regulations. Additionally, having a Funeral Establishment License can help to build trust with clients and ensure that your funeral home is viewed as a reputable and trustworthy business.

Check if your state requires a Funeral Establishment License.

Save time and lots of headaches...

Form your business in minutes and get up in running with one of the most trusted business formation services, ZenBusiness.
Form your business today →
Image of Zenbusiness business formation

3. Preneed Funeral Contract License.

A Preneed Funeral Contract License is a license that allows a funeral home to sell prearranged funeral plans to individuals. These plans typically involve the purchase of funeral services and merchandise in advance of the person's death. In order to start a funeral home, you may need a Preneed Funeral Contract License if you plan to offer prearranged funeral plans to your customers. This license is required in many states and is designed to protect consumers by ensuring that funeral homes are properly licensed and regulated. Without a Preneed Funeral Contract License, you may not be able to legally offer prearranged funeral plans, which could limit the services you can provide to your customers. Additionally, operating without the proper license could result in fines or other legal consequences.

Check if your state requires a Preneed Funeral Contract License.

Simply all of your accounting and taxes in one place.

Quickbooks is built for entrepreneurs. They provide all of the tools you need to grow your business - track your income, expenses, receipts, contractors, and so much more.
Get Quickbooks today →
Image of Quickbooks software

4. Sales Tax Permit.

A Sales Tax Permit is a document that allows a business to collect and remit sales tax to the state government. It is required for businesses that sell taxable goods or services in a particular state.You may need a Sales Tax Permit to start a Funeral Home because funeral services are considered taxable in many states. This means that you would need to collect and remit sales tax on the services you provide. Without a Sales Tax Permit, you would be unable to legally collect and remit sales tax, which could lead to penalties and fines.

Check if your state requires a Sales Tax Permit.

Save time and go with the pros.

Let the experts at Zenbusiness help you decide which permits and licenses you need to start your business.
Get your permits today →
Image of Zenbusiness business formation

5. Federal Tax ID Number.

A Federal Tax ID Number, also known as an Employer Identification Number (EIN), is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify a business entity for tax purposes. It is required for businesses that have employees, operate as a partnership or corporation, or file certain tax returns.To start a funeral home, you may need to obtain a Federal Tax ID Number to register your business with the IRS, open a business bank account, apply for business licenses and permits, and file tax returns. Additionally, if you plan to hire employees, you will need an EIN to report payroll taxes and withholdings to the IRS.

Check if your state requires a Federal Tax ID Number.

Build a beautiful, captivating brand...

Work with the experts at Tailor Brands to help you build your brand, logo, and everything else you need to get your business off the ground!
Get your logo today →
Image of Tailorbrands logo creator

6. State Tax ID Number.

A State Tax ID Number, also known as a State Employer Identification Number (EIN), is a unique identifier assigned by the state government to businesses for tax purposes. It is used to report and pay state taxes such as sales tax, income tax, and unemployment tax.If you are starting a Funeral Home, you may need a State Tax ID Number to comply with state tax laws and regulations. You will be required to collect and remit sales tax on goods sold, pay state income tax on profits earned, and pay unemployment tax for your employees. Additionally, you may need a State Tax ID Number to apply for licenses and permits required to operate a Funeral Home in your state.

Check if your state requires a State Tax ID Number.

Build a website that your customers will love...

With SquareSpace, you don't need to be a professional designer to build a remarkable website that'll attract customers and get them to share with their friends.
Build your website today→
Image of Squarespace website builder

7. .

Check if your state requires a .

8. .

Check if your state requires a .

9. .

Check if your state requires a .

Subscribe to our newsletter
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This post is for information only. You are responsible for reviewing and using this information appropriately. This content doesn’t contain and isn’t meant to provide legal, tax, or business advice. Requirements are updated frequently and you should make sure to do your own research and reach out to professional legal, tax and business advisers, as needed. We’re reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Support

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about the business licenses.

What is the best business formation license for a Funeral Home?

The best business formation license for a funeral home would likely be a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a Corporation. Both of these structures provide limited liability protection to the owners, which is crucial for a funeral home business due to the potential risks and liabilities associated with the services provided. Additionally, both LLCs and Corporations can provide a more professional image and may have tax advantages depending on the specific circumstances. It is essential to consult with a business attorney or accountant to determine the best structure for your specific funeral home business.

Is it required to have a general business license for a Funeral Home?

Yes, a general business license is typically required for a funeral home, along with other specific licenses and permits related to the funeral industry. These may include a funeral director's license, embalming license, and compliance with local zoning and health regulations. Requirements may vary depending on the location and jurisdiction of the funeral home.
More Content

Related Business Licenses

Below are some more business ideas you can explore as options.
image of Drop Shipping Business licenses

Drop Shipping Business

Discover the essential licenses and permits required to open a drop shipping business. Learn how to navigate legal requirements and ensure a smooth launch for your e-commerce venture. Don't miss this comprehensive guide!
Read post
image of Fruit Stand licenses
Fruit Stand
8 min read

Fruit Stand

Discover the essential licenses and permits needed to open a successful fruit stand! Learn about health, zoning, and business regulations to ensure your fresh produce business thrives. Don't miss these crucial steps!
Read post
image of Etsy Store licenses
Etsy Store
8 min read

Etsy Store

Discover the essential licenses and permits required to open a successful Etsy store. Learn how to navigate legal requirements and ensure your handmade business thrives with our comprehensive guide. Don't miss out on these crucial steps to establish your online presence!
Read post
image of Bookkeeping Service licenses

Bookkeeping Service

Discover the essential licenses and permits required to launch a successful bookkeeping service. Learn how to navigate the legal landscape and ensure your business complies with industry regulations. Unlock the secrets to a thriving bookkeeping venture today!
Read post
image of Cheese Shop licenses
Cheese Shop
8 min read

Cheese Shop

Discover the essential licenses and permits needed to open a cheese shop, ensuring a smooth start to your gourmet business. Learn about health regulations, zoning laws, and more in this comprehensive guide.
Read post
image of Subscription Box Service licenses

Subscription Box Service

Discover the essential licenses and permits required to launch a successful subscription box service. Learn how to navigate legal requirements and ensure your business is fully compliant, paving the way for a thriving subscription box empire.
Read post

Newfoundr

Founder and CEO

We're newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.