How long must funeral homes maintain records of funeral services in Missouri?

In Missouri, funeral homes are required to retain records of funeral services for a minimum period of three years. This regulation ensures that there is adequate documentation of services provided, which can be crucial for legal, financial, and operational reasons. Maintaining these records allows for proper audits and reviews, promotes transparency in operations, and provides necessary information to families or authorities if needed in the future.

The three-year retention requirement is designed to balance the need for access to previous service information with the practical considerations of storage and record-keeping for funeral service providers. By having a clear timeline, funeral homes can manage their records effectively while ensuring compliance with state laws.