How Families Can Save Money When Planning a Funeral

Funeral costs can be overwhelming, but families have rights and options that can significantly reduce expenses.
Understanding the Federal Trade Commission's Funeral Rule and shopping smartly can make all the difference.
Know Your Rights: The Funeral Rule
The FTCs Funeral Rule gives you the right to:
- Get itemized prices over the phone.
- Receive a written General Price List (GPL)
       when you visit a funeral home.
- Buy only the goods and services you want.
- Use a casket or urn purchased elsewhere without penalty.

Read the full guide at:

https://consumer.ftc.gov/shopping-funeral-services
 

Key rights you have under the Funeral Rule include: 

• The right to buy only the arrangements you want: Funeral homes cannot make you purchase a package that includes unwanted items.

• The right to get price information over the phone: Funeral homes are required to provide price information if you ask for it.

• The right to receive an itemized price list when you visit a funeral home: You must be given a General Price List (GPL) which lists the cost of each item and service offered.

• The right to see a written casket price list before viewing caskets: This may be included in the GPL or on a separate list.

• The right to see a written outer burial container price list: If not on the GPL, this separate list details the prices of burial containers (often required by cemeteries to prevent ground sinking).

• The right to receive a written statement before paying: This statement must detail the price of each item and service chosen and the total cost.

• The right to explanations for required purchases: The written statement should explain any legal, cemetery, or crematory requirement that necessitates certain purchases.

• The right to use an alternative container for cremation: No state or local law requires a casket for cremation, and funeral homes offering cremations must offer alternative containers.

• The right to provide a casket or urn purchased elsewhere: Funeral providers cannot refuse to handle such items or charge a fee for doing so.

• The right to arrange a funeral without embalming: Routine embalming is not legally required in most states, and refrigeration may be an alternative. 

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Shop Around Before Making Decisions.
Search online for available choices.
Compare prices at multiple funeral homes.
Costs vary widely for the same services.
Ask for quotes by phone or visit in person.
Use the FTC checklist:

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https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/funeral-costs-pricing-checklist#Funeral_Pricing  

 

or create your own to track services and fees.
Consider Buying Funeral Merchandise Separately
Caskets, urns, and memorial items can be purchased online or at retail stores for far less.

Federal law requires funeral homes to accept outside merchandise without extra charge.

Ask for a Detailed, Written Estimate
Before signing anything, ask for an itemized written statement showing each service and its cost.
Ensure there are no hidden fees or unnecessary bundled services.
Tips When Selecting a Funeral Home
- Look for transparency and clear pricing.
- Ask questions and dont feel pressured.
- Read online reviews or ask for referrals.
- Choose a home willing to explain your rights and options.

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See more at the Free Consumer Resourses page on DanMullinInsurance.com

 

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