•  The average cost of an industry-mediated funeral is $8,000.

•  It is legal in Minnesota (and most States) to care for your own at the time of death.

•  A family member (or legally assigned agent) can act in lieu of a funeral director and perform the following functions:

• filing paperwork
• transportation
• preparing the body for a vigil
• purchasing a coffin
• arranging for cremation or burial

•  Embalming is not legally required for up to three days after death (except under rare circumstances).

•  During those three days, a loved one may lie in honor at home or your place of worship.

•  A family member (or legally assigned agent) can wash and dress the body.

• Family and friends can construct their own simple pine coffin or decorate a cardboard cremation container in any way they wish.

*Please note: All of the above must be done in accordance with Minnesota Statute 149A.