How long must funeral establishments retain records of professional services rendered?

In Missouri, funeral establishments are required to retain records of professional services rendered for a minimum period of five years. This duration is established to ensure accountability, provide a necessary reference for any legal inquiries or claims, and uphold professional standards within the funeral service industry. Keeping records for this length of time allows for effective communication with regulatory bodies, families of the deceased, and other stakeholders who may need to refer to these records long after the services have been completed. Retaining records for less than five years may lead to potential complications in investigations or audits, which is why the law is designed to protect both the funeral homes and the clients they serve.