Right after it happens
How long can a body stay at home after death?
Short answer
Not long without refrigeration. In California, the body should be transferred within 24 hours in most situations. A funeral home can handle refrigeration. Do not leave this waiting more than a day without making a call.
What this usually means
Not long without refrigeration. In California, the body should be transferred within 24 hours in most situations. A funeral home can handle refrigeration. Do not leave this waiting more than a day without making a call.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.