The Funeral Rule
The Federal Trade Commission mandates what is called “The Funeral Rule.” Funeral providers are required under federal law to give you a written statement of all costs of the funeral goods and services you select. This is called a general price list.
Funeral costs are divided into three categories:
You have the legal right to:
Buy only the funeral arrangements you want.
Receive price information on the telephone.
See a written casket price list before you see the actual caskets.
See a written outer-burial-container price list.
Receive an explanation of the written itemized statement you receive before you pay.
Use an alternative container instead of a casket for cremation.
Make funeral arrangements without embalming.
If state or local law requires you to buy any particular item, the funeral provider must disclose it on the price list with reference to the specific law.
*FTC regulations prohibit funeral directors from charging “casket-handling fees” for people who make the casket or purchase it from another vendor. The funeral provider may not refuse to handle a casket you bought elsewhere or charge a fee for handling it. You may arrange to bring a casket to the funeral home for use. Rental may also be possible.