What must a funeral director provide to a family upon request regarding funeral services?

A funeral director is required to provide a written itemized statement of all costs to a family upon request to ensure transparency and inform the family fully about the financial aspects of the funeral services they are considering.

This requirement is part of the Federal Trade Commission’s Funeral Rule, which mandates that funeral homes disclose their pricing in a clear and concise manner. By providing a written itemized statement, the funeral director allows families to understand all the costs associated with the services rendered, including charges for various items and services such as embalming, transportation, and merchandise. This practice helps families make informed decisions and avoids any misunderstandings about the total financial obligations involved.

In contrast, other options do not fully align with regulatory requirements or best practices. For instance, merely offering a verbal summary or listing services without prices does not provide the necessary documentation or clarity that families need to comprehend their financial commitments adequately. Providing only the cost of the casket is too narrow and does not encompass the full range of services that might be included in a funeral package.