What does the Funeral Rule require from funeral homes?

The Funeral Rule, established by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), requires funeral homes to provide consumers with transparent pricing and disclosures regarding the services and goods they offer. The essence of the Rule is to ensure that families can make informed decisions about funeral arrangements. This includes providing an itemized price list that details the costs for various services and products, such as caskets, urns, and facility fees. Additionally, the Rule mandates that funeral homes must keep customers informed about their rights, allowing for a more open and ethical interaction between consumers and service providers.

The requirement for itemized pricing is crucial because it enables families to compare options and select services that fit their budget and preferences without being pressured into package deals or unnecessary add-ons. The transparency aimed at by the Funeral Rule helps to protect consumers from any deceptive practices, ensuring a fair and respectful approach to funeral care and arrangements.