What to Do When a Loved One Dies in Kansas City
Losing someone you love is overwhelming. This step-by-step guide is here to help Kansas City families know exactly who to call, what to expect, and how to begin making arrangements — whether you need help right now or are preparing in advance.
Available 24/7 — free and confidential guidance for families.
The First Few Hours — Who to Call
If the death occurs at home: Call 911 if the death was unexpected. If your loved one was under hospice care, call the hospice nurse instead — they will pronounce death and handle the necessary notifications.
If the death occurs in a hospital or care facility: The staff will guide you through the immediate process. You do not need to rush — most facilities can hold your loved one while you make arrangements.
When to call a funeral home: Once death has been officially pronounced, you can contact a funeral home or cremation provider to arrange transportation. If you are unsure who to call, our advisors at (913) 210-0597 are available 24/7 to connect you with a trusted local provider.
Working with Jackson County & Johnson County
Kansas City spans both Missouri and Kansas, and the process differs slightly depending on which side of the state line your loved one passed.
Missouri Side (Jackson County)
- Death certificates filed through Jackson County Vital Records
- Medical Examiner involved for unexpected deaths
- Missouri requires a 24-hour wait before cremation
- No state law requiring embalming
Kansas Side (Johnson County)
- Death certificates filed through Kansas KDHE
- County coroner handles unexpected deaths
- Kansas requires a 48-hour wait before cremation
- No state law requiring embalming
Your chosen funeral provider will handle all county paperwork on your behalf in most cases.
Choosing Between a Funeral Home and Cremation Provider
You are not required to use the first funeral home you contact. Take time to compare services and pricing — even during an immediate-need situation. Key factors to consider:
- Service type: Do you want a traditional funeral with burial, a cremation with memorial service, or a simple direct cremation?
- Cost: Direct cremation in Kansas City starts at $800–$1,500. Traditional burial starts at $7,000+. Use our free Kansas City funeral cost calculator to estimate costs.
- Location: Choose a provider convenient for your family. Compare funeral homes in Kansas City by city and service type.
- Reviews: Look for providers with consistent positive reviews and transparent pricing.
What Information You'll Need to Have Ready
When you contact a funeral home, have the following ready if possible (it is okay if you do not have everything immediately):
How We Can Help — Right Now
Whether you are facing an immediate need or planning ahead, our team is here to help you find the right Kansas City funeral home or cremation provider. We offer free, no-obligation guidance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Available 24/7 — Calls are free and confidential
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do I call first when someone dies at home in Kansas City?▾
Call 911 first. If the death is expected and under hospice care, call the hospice nurse. The authorities or hospice team will guide you on next steps, including contacting a funeral home to transport your loved one.
How do I get a death certificate in Kansas City?▾
Your funeral home will file the death certificate with the Jackson County or Johnson County vital records office. You can request certified copies through your provider — most families need 8–12 copies for insurance, banks, and legal matters.
Do I need to choose a funeral home immediately?▾
No. You typically have 24–48 hours before arrangements need to begin. Take time to compare providers and pricing. Our directory can help you find and compare trusted funeral homes in the Kansas City area.
What is the difference between a coroner and a funeral home?▾
The coroner (or medical examiner) determines the cause and manner of death, especially in unexpected deaths. The funeral home handles the care of the body, funeral arrangements, and cremation or burial. In Jackson County, MO, contact the Medical Examiner's Office; in Johnson County, KS, contact the coroner's office.
How much does an immediate cremation cost in Kansas City?▾
Direct cremation in Kansas City typically costs $800–$1,500 depending on the provider. This is the most affordable option and does not include a viewing or formal service. Use our cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.
Can I arrange a same-day cremation in Kansas City?▾
Same-day cremation is possible with some Kansas City providers, though most require a minimum waiting period (usually 24 hours after death, per state regulations). Contact a provider directly for immediate arrangements.
What documents do I need to arrange a funeral?▾
You will need the deceased's full legal name, Social Security number, date of birth, and place of birth. Veterans should have their DD-214. You will also need the names of the next of kin and the deceased's doctor's information for the death certificate.
How do I arrange a funeral quickly after an unexpected death?▾
Call a funeral home or our 24/7 helpline at (913) 210-0597. A funeral director can begin arrangements immediately, handle transportation, and guide you through every step — from paperwork to selecting services.
Need Help Arranging a Funeral in Kansas City?
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