You Are Allowed to Ask
Many people feel awkward calling funeral homes before there is a death. You are allowed to ask. The FTC Funeral Rule gives consumers the right to get price information by phone, and funeral homes must provide a General Price List when you ask in person about arrangements or prices.
That information can help you decide whether $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, or another amount makes sense for your family.
Do Not Compare Packages Blindly
One funeral home's package may include items another provider lists separately. Ask for line-item prices: basic services fee, transfer of remains, embalming if desired, viewing, ceremony, casket or alternative container, cremation, urn, obituary, and transportation.
For burial, ask the cemetery separately about plot, vault, opening and closing, and marker costs.
A Simple Call Script
- Opening — I am planning ahead and would like current price information.
- Direct cremation — What is your current direct cremation price?
- Burial — What is your current funeral with viewing and burial price range?
- Cash advances — Which charges are third-party costs like obituary or death certificates?
- Written list — How can I receive or review your General Price List?
Funeral Price Questions
Do I have to give my personal information to get prices?
You should be able to ask basic price questions without making arrangements.
Can prices change later?
Yes. Use current prices as a planning guide and keep some cushion.
Should I call more than one funeral home?
Yes. Comparing two or three providers can reveal meaningful differences.
Get a Number That Fits Your Family
Howe Insurance Services has helped families compare easy issue life insurance since 1981. A licensed agent can help you review benefit amounts, waiting periods, and monthly cost in a free over-the-phone consultation.
Sources: Federal Trade Commission - The FTC Funeral Rule · National Funeral Directors Association - media center funeral cost statistics