How Does The Funeral Rule Protect Funeral Consumers Per The Federal Trade Commission?

THE FUNERAL RULE

The Funeral Rule is implemented and enforced by the Federal Trade Commission to protect funeral consumers. The following rules must be followed by funeral homes:

• If you visit a funeral home in person, the funeral provider is required by law to give you a general price list itemizing the cost of the items and services the home offers.
• If the general price list does not include specific prices of caskets or outer burial containers, the law requires the funeral director to show you the price lists for those items before showing you the items.
• The Funeral Rule requires funeral directors to provide price information over the phone to any caller who asks for it.
• Many funeral providers offer various "packages" of commonly selected goods and services that make up a funeral. But when you arrange for a funeral, you have the right to buy individual goods and services. That is, you do not have to accept a package that may include items you do not want.
• The funeral provider may not refuse, or charge a fee, to handle a casket you bought elsewhere.
•   A funeral provider that offers cremations must make alternative containers available.