About Funeral
Planning

Funeral
Pre-Planning

Financing
Funerals

Cremation

Idea Center

Consumer
Rights

Frequently Asked Questions about Donating a Body to Science

from Anatomical Gift Whole Body Donation Guide
by Regina Lee

Why are bodies bequeathed, donated, willed, or deeded to medical schools or state anatomical boards?
Are there any religious considerations in whole body donation?
Must a donor be of legal age to sign a body donation deed?
Is there any advanced age limitation for whole body donation?
Can body donations take place against the wishes of spouse or family?
Can the next-of-kin donate the body of a recently deceased relative?
Will there be any financial obligations to the surviving family of a body donor?
Will deeding a body jeopardize social security, insurance, or pension benefits?