Is a face-to-face meeting required to trigger giving a general price list?

A general price list (GPL) must be provided to consumers when they inquire about funeral goods and services, and this provision is governed by the Federal Trade Commission's Funeral Rule.

The correct context indicates that the GPL must be presented at the beginning of any “face-to-face” conversation pertaining to funeral arrangements or services when a consumer is involved. This requirement emphasizes the importance of transparency and fosters informed decision-making, ensuring that consumers understand their options, including pricing, before making any commitments.

While consumers can obtain a GPL through various means, including via phone or online, it is specifically mandated that the GPL is shared during an in-person meeting for it to be considered compliant with the rule. This requirement stems from the standard practice of discussing sensitive funeral arrangements in person, which can often necessitate a deeper conversation about choices, values, and pricing in a more personal manner, making that face-to-face interaction valuable for both the service provider and the family.

This clarifies the expectation that the GPL should be presented during direct discussions where services and goods are detailed, reinforcing the importance of direct communication in the funeral industry.