{"id":5305,"date":"2024-09-20T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-09-20T05:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-open-a-funeral-home.html"},"modified":"2024-10-09T12:34:13","modified_gmt":"2024-10-09T17:34:13","slug":"how-to-open-a-funeral-home","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-open-a-funeral-home.html","title":{"rendered":"How To Open a Funeral Home"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<section data-testid=\"fl-simple-hero\"  class=\"fl-simple-hero\">\n    <div class=\"fl-simple-hero-container fl-container fl-flex fl-items-center\">\n                <div class=\"fl-simple-hero-title\" data-testid=\"fl-simple-hero-title\">How To Open a Funeral Home<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/section>\n    <div class=\"fl-container\">\n        <div class=\"updated-breadcrumb-list\">\n            <ol>\n                        <li>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\">FindLaw <\/a>\n                <span class=\"breadcrumb-separator\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\/<\/span>\n            <\/li>\n                                <li aria-current=\"page\">How To Open a Funeral Home<\/li>\n            <\/ol>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30  wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-section-main fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\">\n        <h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">How To Open a Funeral Home<\/h1>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image fl-no-margin\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/image\/upload\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/content-original-images-GettyImages-1308172268.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure><section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/natalie-moritz\/\">Natalie Moritz<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/amber-sheppard-esq\/\">Amber Sheppard, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            October 09, 2024\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-editorial-note fl-text-sm\">\n            <p>Editorial Note: We earn a commission from affiliate partner links on FindLaw. Commissions do not affect the editorial integrity of our legal content.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n    <div class=\"fl-callout-text article-blockquote\">\n        <p>Running a funeral home can be an emotional experience. You&#8217;re providing a necessary service to customers who are often facing the most difficult time in their lives.&nbsp;This article shares the business planning and legal steps to open your funeral home.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n<p><b><i>Form your LLC with confidence.\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115288\/26746?subId1=how-to-open-a-funeral-home-in-content\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Our trusted partner LegalZoom has packages starting at $0 + filing fees.<\/a><\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<div class=\"tableOfContent\">\n    <div class=\"table-of-contents\">\n        <span role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" class=\"table-of-contents__title\">13 Steps to Open a Funeral Home<\/span>\n                <ul class=\"table-of-contents__list\">\n                        <li><a href=\"#Options\" title=\"1. Assess Your Options and Chart a Course\">1. Assess Your Options and Chart a Course<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Plan\" title=\"2. Research and Draft a Business Plan\">2. Research and Draft a Business Plan<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Structure\" title=\"3. Choose a Business Structure and Register With the State\">3. Choose a Business Structure and Register With the State<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#EIN\" title=\"4. Obtain an EIN Through the IRS\">4. Obtain an EIN Through the IRS<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Bank\" title=\"5. Open a Business Bank Account and Build Credit\">5. Open a Business Bank Account and Build Credit<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Finance\" title=\"6. Secure Financing for Your Funeral Home Business Expenses\">6. Secure Financing for Your Funeral Home Business Expenses<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Location\" title=\"7. Find a Business Location for Your Funeral Home\">7. Find a Business Location for Your Funeral Home<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Permits\" title=\"8. Register for All Business Licenses and Permits\">8. Register for All Business Licenses and Permits<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Insurance\" title=\"9. Obtain Business Insurance Policies\">9. Obtain Business Insurance Policies<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Trademark\" title=\"10. File for Trademark Protection\">10. File for Trademark Protection<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Market\" title=\"11. Build a Marketing Plan\">11. Build a Marketing Plan<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Hire\" title=\"12. Hire Employees\">12. Hire Employees<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Open\" title=\"13. Open Your Funeral Home for Business\">13. Open Your Funeral Home for Business<\/a><\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Funeral homes providing compassionate care for the deceased and their loved ones are a cornerstone of every community.&nbsp;&nbsp;They operate under numerous laws and regulations specific to funeral service providers. Prospective funeral business owners must understand these licensing requirements, pricing restrictions, and industry regulations. This is in addition to the legal considerations&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business.html\">all small businesses<\/a>&nbsp;must know.<\/p>\r\n<p>See FindLaw&#8217;s&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness.html\">Small Business Center<\/a>&nbsp;for more information and resources on starting and running a small business.<\/p>\r\n<div class=\"general-step-component\">\n    <div class=\"steps-container\">\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            1\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Options\">Assess Your Options and Chart a Course<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>As a potential business owner, you&#8217;ll want to survey your options. Look at your finances and determine if you&#8217;re in the right place to start a business. Discuss your plans with your significant other or family and friends.<\/p>\n<p>This is also the time to consider worst-case scenarios. Don&#8217;t be afraid to scrutinize your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/evaluating-your-new-small-business-idea.html\" title=\"FindLaw | Evaluating Your New Small Business Idea\">business idea<\/a>&nbsp;before you start your business venture.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            2\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Plan\">Research and Draft a Business Plan<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Next,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-write-a-business-plan.html\" title=\"FindLaw | How To Write a Business Plan\">start researching your business plan<\/a>. This is often the most exhaustive part of the process. You will make critical decisions about your business and research various facets of the funeral home industry.<\/p>\n<p>You&#8217;ll also need a robust&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/before-you-start-your-business-try-starting-a-business-plan.html\" title=\"The Benefits of a Good Business PlanThe Benefits of a Good Business Plan\">business plan<\/a>&nbsp;when approaching lenders and investors for financing.<\/p>\n<p>Survey the broader landscape before zeroing in on the market where you plan to open your funeral home. Make a checklist of all the issues your business plan should address. The most important questions every funeral home&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/writing-a-business-plan-faq.html\" title=\"FindLaw | Writing a Business Plan FAQ\">business plan<\/a>&nbsp;should answer are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Are you purchasing an&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/buying-an-existing-business.html\" title=\"FindLaw | Buying an Existing Business\">existing funeral home business<\/a>&nbsp;or starting anew?<\/li>\n<li>Will your funeral home lease or buy its location?<\/li>\n<li>Are you the sole owner, or will there be multiple owners?<\/li>\n<li>Which&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/types-of-business-structures.html\" title=\"FindLaw | Types of Business Structures\">legal business entity structure<\/a>&nbsp;will you choose for the business?<\/li>\n<li>How do you intend to finance the funeral home&#8217;s opening?<\/li>\n<li>Who are your competitors, and is there a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/marketing-research.html\" title=\"FindLaw | Marketing Research\">market demand<\/a>&nbsp;for your services?<\/li>\n<li>What services will your funeral home offer, and who must you hire to provide them?<\/li>\n<li>What is the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/choosing-your-business-name.html\" title=\"Choosing Your Business Name | FindLaw\">business name<\/a>&nbsp;for your funeral home?<\/li>\n<li>How will you&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/the-basics-of-marketing-a-small-business.html\" title=\"How To Craft an Effective Marketing Plan\">market your services<\/a>?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>There are&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/contents-of-a-written-business-plan.html\" title=\"Contents of a Written Business Plan\">online templates<\/a>&nbsp;that can help you draft your business plan.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            3\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Structure\">Choose a Business Structure and Register With the State<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>You must&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/registering-the-name-of-your-business.html\" title=\"How To Register a Business Name\">register your business<\/a>&nbsp;with your state. This action recognizes your funeral home as a legal entity. You can do this through&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/state-guide-corporations-offices.html\" title=\"State Guide: Corporations Offices\">your state&#8217;s corporations office<\/a>, usually a Secretary of State. Registering your business does involve a fee. In most states, you will also be subject to renewal fees each year.<\/p>\n<p>You&#8217;ll also need to&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/business-structures-which-one-is-best-for-your-business.html\" title=\"Business Structures: Which One is Best for Your Business?\">decide on a business structure<\/a>&nbsp;(or type of legal entity) for your funeral home:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Sole proprietorship<\/li>\n<li>Partnership<\/li>\n<li>Limited liability company (LLC)<\/li>\n<li>Corporation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The default entity type is a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/sole-proprietorships.html\" title=\"Sole Proprietorships | FindLaw\">sole proprietorship<\/a>. So, if you don&#8217;t choose another structure, your business is a sole proprietorship.<\/p>\n<p>As a sole proprietor, you and your business are a single legal entity. The main drawback to a sole proprietorship is that your personal assets are not protected against the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/what-are-the-disadvantages-of-a-sole-proprietorship.html\" title=\"What Are the Disadvantages of a Sole Proprietorship?\">business&#8217;s debts and liabilities<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>In a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/the-small-business-partnership-general-and-limited-partnerships.html\" title=\"General and Limited Partnerships\">general partnership<\/a>, partners share liability.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/the-small-business-partnership-general-and-limited-partnerships.html\" title=\"General and Limited Partnerships\">Limited partnerships<\/a>&nbsp;protect partners from personal liability.<\/p>\n<p>Most funeral business owners register their business as either an&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/corporation-versus-llc.html\" title=\"Corporation vs. LLC: What Is Best for Your New Business?\">LLC or a corporation<\/a>. These structures offer owners liability protection and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/business-form-and-taxation-pros-and-cons.html\" title=\"Business Form and Taxation: Pros and Cons\">tax flexibilities<\/a>&nbsp;unavailable with sole proprietorships or general partnerships.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            4\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"EIN\">Obtain an EIN Through the IRS<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Next, apply for an&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-taxes\/employer-identification-number-ein-faq.html\" title=\"EIN FAQ\">Employer Identification Number<\/a>&nbsp;(EIN) with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The IRS uses these nine-digit numbers for tax and identification numbers. It&#8217;s like a social security number for your business.<\/p>\n<p>You&#8217;ll need an <a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115288\/26746?subId1=how-to-open-a-funeral-home&#038;auto-aff-ein\" class=\"diy-biz-affiliate\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" data-cta=\"Biz Auto LZ - LATL Txt\" data-cta-url=\"legalzoom.com\" target=\"_blank\">EIN<\/a> to hire employees and open a business bank account.<\/p>\n<p>Getting an EIN&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/businesses\/small-businesses-self-employed\/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online\" title=\"Apply Online for an EIN\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">through the IRS<\/a>&nbsp;is free. Watch out for commercial sites that charge a fee\u2014some of them look similar to the official IRS website.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            5\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Bank\">Open a Business Bank Account and Build Credit<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-finances\/the-basics-of-accounting-for-small-businesses.html\" title=\"The Basics of Accounting for Small Businesses\">business bank account<\/a>&nbsp;further separates your personal assets from business assets. Conduct your funeral home&#8217;s transactions through a business bank account and maintain diligent records.<\/p>\n<p>You may need extra capital to&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/sources-of-small-business-financing.html\" title=\"Sources of Small Business Financing\">fund your everyday operations<\/a>. This is especially true when your business is just starting. You may need to access business credit to cover some costs.<\/p>\n<p>An option that can work well for small businesses is&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sba.gov\/blog\/how-net-30-accounts-help-conserve-business-cash-flow\" title=\"How Net 30 Accounts Help Conserve Business Cash Flow\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Net-30 accounts<\/a>. Net-30 terms allow your business to receive goods or services upfront without immediately paying for them\u2014usually 30 days. This can help with&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-finances\/the-importance-of-cash-management.html\" title=\"The Importance of Cash Management\">cash flow management<\/a>&nbsp;while building business credit.<\/p>\n<p>Net-30 vendors are suppliers that offer Net-30 payment terms. They provide payment history to credit reporting bureaus.<\/p>\n<p>Another option is to fund your business expenses with a business credit card.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            6\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Finance\">Secure Financing for Your Funeral Home Business Expenses<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Securing financing can be challenging, but it&#8217;s easier for businesses that are always in demand. Most funeral home owners must take out a small business loan to secure capital to cover&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-finances\/start-up-costs-overview.html\" title=\"FindLaw | Start-Up Costs: Overview\">startup costs<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Your commercial rent and any buildouts or renovations will likely be your most significant expenses. You must also outfit your funeral homes with specialized equipment. Consider these equipment costs as you formulate your budget:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Embalming equipment, supplies, and tables<\/li>\n<li>Hydraulic lifts capable of lifting human bodies<\/li>\n<li>A hearse<\/li>\n<li>A cremation chamber and urns<\/li>\n<li>A refrigeration system<\/li>\n<li>Caskets, both to sell and have on hand<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You will also need to factor in office items and technology, furniture for the public space, and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/insurance\/business-insurance.html\" title=\"FindLaw | Business Insurance\">commercial insurance<\/a>. If you hire an attorney, accountant, or business consultant, you should also include professional costs.<\/p>\n<p>Prepare to contribute up to a quarter of the opening costs from your own personal assets. Business owners with good credit and available funds should be able to secure a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/tips-for-business-loans.html\" title=\"FindLaw | Tips For Business Loans\">business loan<\/a>&nbsp;from a bank or credit union.<\/p>\n<p>You can also look into small business loans from the Small Business Administration (SBA).&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sba.gov\/funding-programs\/loans\" title=\"SBA Loans\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SBA-backed loans<\/a>&nbsp;can be easier to secure because they reduce lender risk.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            7\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Location\">Find a Business Location for Your Funeral Home<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Finding the right&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/commercial-property-search-choosing-the-location-of-your.html\" title=\"Commercial Property Search: Choosing the Location of Your Business\">commercial real estate<\/a>&nbsp;for your funeral home can be costly.<\/p>\n<p>You will need a commercial space large enough for:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>All your business&#8217;s necessary equipment<\/li>\n<li>A public space for viewings and memorial services<\/li>\n<li>A private working area for embalming, cremation services, and general preparations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Take your competitors and the local market into account as well. Where are your competitors located? Choose a spot where competitors don&#8217;t crowd you.<\/p>\n<p>Depending on the state or municipality where you operate, you might need to register for a certificate of occupancy (COs). COs confirm that your location meets all necessary building codes and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/commercial-zoning.html\" title=\"FindLaw | Commercial Zoning\">zoning laws<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Your space must also be accessible under the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/civilrights\/discrimination\/the-americans-with-disabilities-act-overview.html\" title=\"ADA Overview\">Americans with Disabilities Act<\/a>&nbsp;(ADA).<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            8\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Permits\">Register for All Business Licenses and Permits<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Your business is subject to the regulations of both the federal government and the state where you operate. Every state has different requirements\u2014check with your state&#8217;s business administration office or secretary of state for licensing requirements for your funeral home.<\/p>\n<p>While most states don&#8217;t require a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/state-business-licenses.html\" title=\"State Business Licenses\">general business license<\/a>, funeral directors need a mortuary science (mortician&#8217;s) license. For this license, funeral directors must graduate from an accredited mortuary science program and pass a state licensing exam.<\/p>\n<p>Embalmers also need a license in every state except Colorado.<\/p>\n<p>Your funeral home must also meet certain occupational health and safety standards. Plan for inspections with your local health department and the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osha.gov\/\" title=\"OSHA Homepage\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Occupational Safety and Health Administration&nbsp;<\/a>(OSHA) before you can open for business.<\/p>\n<p>OSHA also requires funeral homes to employ various safety programs, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Bloodborne pathogen exposure control<\/li>\n<li>Hazard communication and certified safety data sheets<\/li>\n<li>Formaldehyde exposure control<\/li>\n<li>Respiratory protection and personal protective equipment<\/li>\n<li>Spill response<\/li>\n<li>Confined space safety<\/li>\n<li>Lockout and tagout (specific to crematoriums)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>See the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/nfda.org\/careers\/licensing-requirements\" title=\"Licensing Boards &amp; Requirements\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Licensing Boards and Requirements section<\/a>&nbsp;of the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) website for your state&#8217;s licensing requirements. The NFDA also provides preneed regulations, licensing fees, and continuing education requirements for each state in its&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/theconferenceonline.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Regulations-in-Licensing-2023.pdf\" title=\"Regulations in Funeral Service Licensing \" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Regulations in Funeral Services Licensing<\/a>&nbsp;guide.<\/p>\n<p>Some funeral goods and services are exempt from sales tax in some states. Still, you may need a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-taxes\/sales-and-use-tax.html\" title=\"Sales and Use Tax | FindLaw\">sales tax permit<\/a>&nbsp;for your business&#8217;s taxable aspects.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            9\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Insurance\">Obtain Business Insurance Policies<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>When holding visitations, your funeral home will see a lot of foot traffic, and accidents can happen. You should always make the safety of your visitors a priority, but&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/what-is-business-insurance-.html?fli=latl_biz_howto:diy_biz_ins:txt\">every business should have insurance<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>At a minimum, every funeral home owner should have general liability insurance and workers&#8217; compensation insurance (if you have employees). But you may want additional insurance. Consider your business&#8217;s potential liabilities and how much financial risk you are willing to assume when&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/liability-and-insurance\/different-types-of-commercial-insurance.html\" title=\"Different Types of Commercial Insurance\">deciding on coverage<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            10\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Trademark\">File for Trademark Protection<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Trademark protection grants you exclusive rights to your business name. It also prevents others from using confusingly similar names or marks and allows you to enforce trademark rights in the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/intellectual-property\/trademark-infringement-law-q-a.html\" title=\"Trademark Infringement Law FAQ\">event of infringement<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Once you have conceptualized your business name and logo, file for a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/intellectual-property\/registering-a-trademark.html\" title=\"A Guide to Federal Trademark Registration\">federal trademark<\/a>&nbsp;with the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uspto.gov\/trademarks\/basics\/trademark-process\" title=\"Trademark Process | USPTO\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">U.S. Patent and Trademark Office<\/a>&nbsp;(USPTO). Be patient\u2014this application process can take up to 18 months. Some business owners get help from an&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-lawyer-resources\/hiring-legal-help-with-trademarks.html\" title=\"Tips for Choosing the Best Lawyer for Your Trademarks\">intellectual property attorney<\/a>&nbsp;for this.<\/p>\n<p>You can also file for a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/intellectual-property\/state-trademark-information.html\" title=\"A Guide to State Trademark Information\">trademark at the state level<\/a>. This is separate from registering your business with the state, which does not automatically provide trademark protection.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            11\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Market\">Build a Marketing Plan<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Your marketing strategy is the primary way your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/your-target-market.html\" title=\"Your Target Market\">target market<\/a>&nbsp;will find out about your funeral home. There is no one right strategy for advertising, but here are some avenues to consider:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Establishing an online presence with a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/build-a-business-website.html\" title=\"Make a Website for Your Business\">user-friendly website<\/a>&nbsp;and social media profiles<\/li>\n<li>Using relevant keywords, meta tags, and other search engine optimization (SEO) strategies<\/li>\n<li>Leveraging traditional media like print advertisements and direct mail<\/li>\n<li>Listing your business in online and printed business directories<\/li>\n<li>Getting involved in your community (like community events, partnerships with other businesses, and sponsorships)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you&#8217;re in an area with steep competition,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/the-basics-of-marketing-a-small-business.html\" title=\"How To Craft an Effective Marketing Plan\">your messaging<\/a>&nbsp;should include what differentiates your services from other funeral homes in the area.<\/p>\n<p>Funeral services are a relationship-oriented business. Connect with your audience and community by establishing trust and providing support.<\/p>\n<p>Familiarize yourself with pricing and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/essential-advertising-rules-for-your-businesses.html\" title=\"Essential Advertising Rules for Your Businesses\">advertising laws<\/a>&nbsp;that affect funeral service providers. Namely, the Federal Trade Commission&#8217;s (FTC) \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/consumer.ftc.gov\/articles\/ftc-funeral-rule\" title=\"The FTC Funeral Rule\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Funeral Rule<\/a>&quot; which requires funeral homes to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Provide customers with an itemized price list of goods and services<\/li>\n<li>Provide price quotes over the phone upon request<\/li>\n<li>Disclose if embalming is not required under state law<\/li>\n<li>Use a casket or container purchased elsewhere without charging a handling fee<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Some states have additional regulations for funeral pricing transparency and disclosure.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            12\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Hire\">Hire Employees<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>The kind of&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/employment-law-and-human-resources\/what-to-do-when-you-hire-an-employee-for-the-first-time.html\" title=\"Hiring Your First Employee\">employees you will need<\/a>&nbsp;and how many depend on the scope of your business and your direct involvement. Consider the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Will you be managing the day-to-day affairs of the business?<\/li>\n<li>Do you plan on serving as a director or an embalmer?<\/li>\n<li>Is there a seasonal aspect to your business?<\/li>\n<li>What range of services does your funeral home provide?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Your education and background will also determine the extent of help you need. Still,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/employment-law-and-human-resources\/the-hiring-process.html\" title=\"The Hiring Process\">potential hires<\/a>&nbsp;to make include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Business manager to oversee day-to-day operations<\/li>\n<li>A funeral director who coordinates visitations<\/li>\n<li>Removal staff<\/li>\n<li>A professionally trained embalmer<\/li>\n<li>A driver for the hearse<\/li>\n<li>Hairstylist and makeup artist<\/li>\n<li>Assistants for the director, manager, and embalmer<\/li>\n<li>Maintenance and janitorial staff<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A good place to source potential talent is through mortuary science programs. Connect with students and recent graduates seeking opportunities in the industry. You can also use online job platforms, LinkedIn, and professional associations to find candidates.<\/p>\n<p>It is also important to understand hiring laws. For example, federal law prohibits employers from asking certain questions during&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/employment-law-and-human-resources\/best-practices-for-employers-in-a-hiring-interview.html\" title=\" Avoiding Discrimination and Illegal Questions in Job Interviews\">the interview process<\/a>. You also must verify each employee&#8217;s identity and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/employment-law-and-human-resources\/employment-eligibility-verification.html\" title=\"Employment Eligibility Verification\">eligibility to work in the U.S.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>You should also perform a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/employment-law-and-human-resources\/pre-employment-tests.html\" title=\"Pre-Employment Tests\">background check<\/a>&nbsp;for every employee you hire.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            13\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Open\">Open Your Funeral Home for Business<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Next, open your funeral home and provide an essential service to your community. Operate your business professionally and with empathy\u2014your customers will remember you and your business in their time of grief.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2>Need More Help With Your Funeral Home Business? Talk to an Attorney<\/h2>\r\n<p>Starting any type of business is difficult enough without the added legal considerations. Opening a funeral home can be even more overwhelming. Some entrepreneurs in this industry benefit from getting professional help with the legal aspects of their business.<\/p>\r\n<p>A<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/business-organizations\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&nbsp;local small business lawyer<\/a>&nbsp;can help. An experienced attorney can advise on advertising and pricing laws, licensing regulations, and more. They can also help you draft service agreements and choose the best legal structure for your business.<\/p>\r\n<p>If you are ready to start your business, you can let our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115288\/26746?subId1=how-to-open-a-funeral-home-custom-content\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">trusted partner LegalZoom<\/a>&nbsp;handle your business formation filing for $99 plus filing fees.<\/p>\r\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3418)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M6 21H3C2.46957 21 1.96086 20.7893 1.58579 20.4142C1.21071 20.0391 1 19.5304 1 19V12C1 11.4696 1.21071 10.9609 1.58579 10.5858C1.96086 10.2107 2.46957 10 3 10H6M13 8V4C13 3.20435 12.6839 2.44129 12.1213 1.87868C11.5587 1.31607 10.7956 1 10 1L6 10V21H17.28C17.7623 21.0055 18.2304 20.8364 18.5979 20.524C18.9654 20.2116 19.2077 19.7769 19.28 19.3L20.66 10.3C20.7035 10.0134 20.6842 9.72068 20.6033 9.44225C20.5225 9.16382 20.3821 8.90629 20.1919 8.68751C20.0016 8.46873 19.7661 8.29393 19.5016 8.17522C19.2371 8.0565 18.9499 7.99672 18.66 8H13Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\"\n                              stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><\/path>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3418\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"><\/rect>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"No\"\n                value=\"no\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">No<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-down\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3423)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M16 0.999995H18.67C19.236 0.989986 19.7859 1.18813 20.2154 1.55681C20.645 1.9255 20.9242 2.43905 21 3V10C20.9242 10.5609 20.645 11.0745 20.2154 11.4432C19.7859 11.8119 19.236 12.01 18.67 12H16M9.00003 14V18C9.00003 18.7956 9.3161 19.5587 9.87871 20.1213C10.4413 20.6839 11.2044 21 12 21L16 12V0.999995H4.72003C4.2377 0.994543 3.76965 1.16359 3.40212 1.47599C3.0346 1.78839 2.79235 2.22309 2.72003 2.7L1.34003 11.7C1.29652 11.9866 1.31586 12.2793 1.39669 12.5577C1.47753 12.8362 1.61793 13.0937 1.80817 13.3125C1.99842 13.5313 2.23395 13.7061 2.49846 13.8248C2.76297 13.9435 3.05012 14.0033 3.34003 14H9.00003Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3423\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"\/>\n                       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class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Easy to understand\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                        >Easy to understand<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Solved my problem\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                        >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <\/div>\n    \n    <div class=\" fl-section-sidebar  \">\n        <div class=\"generalCard\">\n            <div class=\"disclaimer--newLegalZoom general-card--newLegalZoom__disclaimer fl-text-sm\">\n            <p>FindLaw will earn a commission if you purchase business formation products through these affiliate links.<\/p>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"general-card general-card--newLegalZoom\">\n        <div class=\"general-card__header\">\n            <div class=\"general-card__header-image-container\">\n                <img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"general-card__header-image--newLegalZoomText\"\n                     src=\"\/wp-content\/themes\/ability-law\/resources\/images\/legal-zoom\/legal_zoom_text.png\"\n                     alt=\"\">\n                <img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"general-card__header-image--newLegalZoom\"\n                     src=\"\/wp-content\/themes\/ability-law\/resources\/images\/legal-zoom\/legal_zoom.png\"\n                     alt=\"\">\n            <\/div>\n            <span class=\"general-card__header-title fl-text\"><p>Meet FindLaw&#8217;s <b>trusted partner LegalZoom<\/b>, an industry leader in online business formations<\/p>\n<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"general-card__body\">\n            <div class=\"text section\">\n                <div class=\"cmp-text\">\n                    <h2 class=\"general-card__h2--newLegalZoom fl-h3-landing\">Let&#8217;s start your free LLC!<\/h2>\n                    <div>\n                        <\/p>\n<p>Join the millions who launched their businesses with LegalZoom.<\/p>\n<p><b>LLC plans start at $0 + state fees.<\/b><\/p><\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"general-card__footer\">\n            <a class=\"general-card__footer-link fl-text-lg diy-biz-affiliate\" data-cta-url=\"legalzoom.com\" data-cta=\"Biz LZ - StateLaws ESum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115288\/26746?subId1=how-to-open-a-funeral-home-esum\">\n                <p class=\"general-card__footer-link-text fl-no-margin fl-text-lg-medium\">SELECT AND START LLC<\/p>\n                <i class=\"general-card__footer-link-icon fa fa-angle-right\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            <\/a>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"general-card--newLegalZoom__bottom\">\n        <p>Prefer to work with a lawyer?<\/p>\n<p><a>Find one right now.<\/a><\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul 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