Information for Funeral Directors

Required Documents

Funeral directors must provide a valid Medical Examiner Case Number to obtain any case-related information. To obtain a case number, please refer to the authorized family representative, the Electronic Death Registration System (EDRS) or the medical facility where the death occurred.

Funeral directors inquiring if a body is ready for release must check EDRS to verify that a death certificate is available. For assistance with using EDRS, please contact the Constituent Services Unit at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) by calling 646-632-6705 Monday- Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. If calling after hours, please call the Burial Desk at 212-788-4545.

OCME's mortuary offices are open seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Funeral directors are required to present the following in order for OCME to release remains:

1. The Medical Examiner Case Number
2. A valid driver's license or other government-issued ID
3. A valid New York State funeral director's license
4. A completed affidavit for removal
5. A working copy of a death certificate

Training Resources to Improve Death Registration

Funeral Directors needing assistance in registering a death should refer to the DOHMH training materials under the section "Electronic Death Registration System for Funeral Directors."