The General Price List (GPL)
Understanding Funeral Home Pricing
A General Price List is a written document that funeral homes must provide under the FTC Funeral Rule. It lists the prices of individual funeral goods and services, rather than forcing consumers to rely on bundled packages.
The GPL allows you to see:
- Individual service prices
- Merchandise costs
- Required vs. optional charges
- The total cost of selected services
Funeral homes must provide a General Price List:
- When you visit in person and ask about prices
- Before discussing specific arrangements
- Without requiring personal information or commitment
They must also provide accurate price information over the phone if you request it.
You do not need to explain why you want the GPL—and you do not have to make any purchases to receive one.
A compliant GPL must clearly list prices for:
Funeral Services
- Basic services fee of the funeral director and staff
- Embalming
- Other preparation of the body
- Use of facilities for viewing, ceremony, or memorial service
- Transportation of remains
Merchandise
- Caskets
- Outer burial containers
- Urns
- Alternative containers for cremation
Direct Disposition Options
- Direct cremation prices
- Immediate burial prices
Each item must be priced individually so consumers can select only what they want.
Under federal law, funeral homes may not:
- Refuse to provide a General Price List
- Require you to purchase a package
- Charge extra fees for itemizing services
- Penalize you for using an outside casket or urn
- Claim prices are unavailable until you commit
If a provider refuses to share a GPL, it may be a violation of the Funeral Rule.
Usually no. Embalming is only required in rare circumstances, and this should be clearly stated on the GPL.
No. Funeral homes must accept third-party caskets without charging extra fees.
The prices listed must be accurate at the time they are provided.
How to Use a General Price List to Compare Funeral Costs
The GPL makes comparison shopping possible—even across different funeral homes. Tips for using a GPL effectively:
- Request GPLs from multiple providers
- Compare the basic services fee, which can vary widely
- Look for optional services you may not need
- Ask for clarification on any unfamiliar charges
- Take time before signing contracts
Small differences in pricing can result in thousands of dollars in savings.