SHOP AROUND IN ADVANCE

Compare prices from at least two funeral homes. Remember that you are free to purchase the casket, outer burial container or urn from any funeral director or other supplier.

ASK FOR A PRICE LIST

The law requires funeral home to give you a General Price List for retention and show a Casket Price List and Outer Burial Container Price List to anyone who asks in person about services or merchandise that the funeral home offers or inquires about their prices.

RESIST PRESSURE

Do not buy goods and services you don’t really need or want.

AVOID EMOTIONAL OVERSPENDING

It’s not necessary to have the fanciest casket or the most elaborate funeral to properly honor a loved one.

RECOGNIZE YOUR RIGHTS

Laws regarding funerals and burials vary from state to state. It’s a smart move to know which goods or services the law or cemetery may require you to purchase and which are optional.

APPLY SMART SHOPPING TECHNIQUES

You use the same smart shopping techniques for other major purchases. You may cut costs by limiting the viewing or by dressing your loved one in a favorite outfit instead of buying burial clothing.

PLAN AHEAD

It allows you to comparison shop without time constraints, creates an opportunity for family discussion, and lifts some of the burden from your family.

AN EXPECTATION FROM AN ETHICAL FUNERAL HOME

The funeral director should provide to you, at the conclusion of the funeral arrangement conference, a written statement listing all of the goods and services you have purchased and the price of each item.