Which document serves as a legal authorization for the burial or cremation of a deceased individual?

The death certificate serves as a critical legal document that officially certifies the individual's passing and provides necessary details about the deceased. It is often required by authorities before burial or cremation can legally take place. The issuance of a death certificate is typically completed by a licensed health professional, and it must be filed with the appropriate governmental agency to be considered valid.

In the context of burial or cremation, the death certificate provides the necessary documentation that confirms the individual has died and often indicates the cause of death, which can be important for health department regulations and procedures. Without this document, the funeral service provider may not be able to proceed with burial or cremation services, aligning with legal requirements designed to ensure proper handling of deceased individuals.

While the other options have their own importance—such as a funeral contract outlining the services, a power of attorney granting someone authority to make decisions on behalf of another, and a survival notice, which is generally related to the living—none provide the legal authorization specifically required for the final disposition of a deceased person's remains like the death certificate does.