Is embalming legally required for a funeral viewing?

Under the FTC Funeral Rule, funeral providers generally must disclose that embalming is not required by law except in special cases and to obtain permission before embalming when authorization is required. When comparing funeral arrangements, requirements can depend on state or local rules, the condition and timing of the remains, transportation, and the funeral home's policies for certain types of viewing. As part of the arrangement review, prepaid plans and benefits should be reviewed for portability, guarantees, substitutions, and what happens if the provider changes or closes. Obtain a written list that itemizes each provider charge, then verify the source of any stated requirement so you know whether it is legal, cemetery based, or simply a provider rule.