At-a-Glance Information

If this is the first time you have had to arrange a funeral, this page is designed to help you get straight to the most critical information about what to expect and whom to call for help. There are several steps that must be followed, but taken one at a time they are all achievable.

On This Page

  • Step-by-step family-led funeral planning
  • List of local authorities with contact info
  • Death certificate worksheet​

Step-by-Step Family-Led Funerals in Oregon

Detailed descriptions of the following can be found on the How-To pages:
  • Determine who has the legal authority to make funeral arrangements.
  • Care for the body by bathing, dressing, and cooling.
  • Purchase or make burial containers such as caskets or shrouds.
  • Arrange for burial plot purchase if desired.
  • Obtain, complete, and file the death certificate.
  • Obtain the metal tag that goes with the body.
  • Obtain the transit/burial permit.
  • Design and conduct ceremonies in the home, other facility, or graveside, if desired.
  • Hire professionals (clergy/celebrant, funeral director, transport company, etc.) as needed.
  • Transport the body as necessary to the home, place of worship, other facility, or place of disposition.
  • File for Social Security and Veteran’s Benefits.
  • Obtain and distribute copies of certified death certificates to banks, insurance companies, etc.

Funeral Goods and Services, Options and Opportunities

Adapted from Bereavement Authority of Ontario, Canada

State and County Authorities Contact Info

Families wishing to handle the paperwork (24 hour death notice, filing the death certificate) without hiring a funeral director must:
  • Contact the Oregon Health Authority’s Center for Health Statistics Registration Unit Manager (971-673-1160) to request what is referred to as a “Home Burial Packet”. 
  • Note: handling paperwork and transportation does not obligate the family to do a home burial.
  • The packet includes a paper death certificate with Oregon Health Authority Death Certificate Filing Instructions, plus a metal identification tag. 
  • The packet also includes a 24 hour Report of Death card that must be filed within 24 hours with the local county clerk. 
Families wishing to do a home burial on their own property must obtain permission from their county planning commission. ​

Death Certificate Completion Worksheet and Instructions

Resources and Online Links

Oregon Death Certificate Worksheet
Oregon Health Authority Death Certificate Filing Instructions