Comparison shopping for funeral services can save thousands. The FTC Funeral Rule gives you the right to itemized pricing and outside purchases.
Your rights under the FTC Funeral Rule: Federal law requires funeral homes to give you a written, itemized price list. You can choose individual items - you don't have to buy a package. You can bring your own casket or urn with no handling fee.
Every funeral home must provide this by law. Get it from at least 3 funeral homes before deciding. If anyone refuses, that's a major red flag.
This non-declinable fee ($2,000-$3,000) covers overhead. Make sure you understand what it covers so you don't pay twice for listed services.
You have the legal right to itemize. Packages can be convenient but often include services you don't need. Compare the itemized total vs the package price.
Ask about interest rates, required deposits, and what happens if you can't make a payment. Some funeral homes offer 0% financing for 12 months.
Cemetery fees, flowers, obituary costs, death certificates, and clergy fees are often separate. Ask for a complete estimate that includes everything.
Some funeral homes charge by the hour for viewing. Others include a set number of hours. Understand what you're getting.
If you have specific requirements (washing, shrouding, sitting shiva, etc.), confirm they have experience and facilities for your traditions.
Photo slideshows, custom music, themed decorations, video streaming for remote family - ask what they offer and what costs extra.
Most funeral homes handle this as part of their basic fee. Confirm how many certified death certificates are included (you'll need 6-10 copies).
Transfer from place of death, hearse, family car/limo - each may be a separate charge. Ask about mileage limits.
Make sure the space can accommodate your expected attendance. Ask about overflow options.
ADA accessibility, parking lot size, and proximity to the cemetery matter, especially for elderly attendees.
Any reputable funeral home will welcome a visit. Take note of cleanliness, condition, and how the staff treats you.
You'll need 6-10 certified copies for insurance, banks, property transfers, etc. Additional copies are usually $5-$15 each.
Most funeral homes notify Social Security as part of their service. The surviving spouse or dependent may be eligible for a $255 lump-sum death benefit.
If the deceased is a veteran, the funeral home should assist with VA Form 21P-530 (burial allowance) and coordinate with national cemeteries if applicable.
Lines like "Don't you want the best for your loved one?" are manipulation. A basic casket serves the same purpose as a premium one.
Common scam: claiming embalming is "required by law." In most states, it's not required for services within 24-48 hours or for cremation. Ask them to cite the specific regulation.
Watch for "packages" that include services you don't want and can't remove. The FTC Funeral Rule gives you the right to buy only what you choose.
"We need a decision today" or "This price is only good until tomorrow" are pressure tactics. Legitimate funeral homes give you time to decide.
Use this format to compare quotes from multiple funeral homes:
| Service/Item | Funeral Home A | Funeral Home B | Funeral Home C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic services fee | |||
| Embalming | |||
| Viewing/visitation | |||
| Funeral ceremony | |||
| Transfer of remains | |||
| Hearse | |||
| Casket | |||
| Burial vault | |||
| Cemetery plot + fees | |||
| Headstone/marker | |||
| Flowers | |||
| Obituary | |||
| Death certificates | |||
| TOTAL |
Before you call funeral homes, know what to expect. Our calculator gives you state-adjusted estimates in 60 seconds.
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