In Tennessee, how long must a funeral home retain records related to a deceased individual?

In Tennessee, funeral homes are required to retain records related to a deceased individual for a period of five years from the date of service. This retention period ensures that appropriate documentation remains accessible for a reasonable time frame for potential inquiries or needs, such as legal matters or family requests for information. Retaining records for five years balances the need for accountability and compliance with state regulations while also considering the practical aspects of managing such information over time. This standard is in place to protect both the funeral service provider and the families that they serve, ensuring that important details regarding services provided are available when necessary.