Funeral Home Red Flags: What to Watch Out For When Grieving

The funeral industry is regulated by the FTC Funeral Rule, which gives families significant protections. Most funeral homes operate with genuine respect for families and follow the law. But not all of them do. And the people most vulnerable to bad practices are grieving, have never done this before, and are making decisions under time pressure they have never experienced.

They Refuse to Give You a Price List

The FTC Funeral Rule requires every licensed funeral home to provide an itemized General Price List on request. If they tell you prices depend on the situation or try to get you to come in first, that is a red flag. A reputable funeral home will email or read you their price list over the phone without hesitation.

They Tell You Embalming Is Required

Embalming is not required by law in any state for a standard burial or cremation. It may be required in specific circumstances -- if the body is being transported across state lines or if there is a significant delay. A funeral home that tells you embalming is required without explaining the specific legal reason is adding an unnecessary charge.

They Pressure You to Decide Immediately

You do not have to select a casket, confirm a service format, or make any major decisions the day someone dies. A reputable funeral home will take custody of the body and give you time. Pressure to make decisions before you are ready -- especially financial decisions -- is a warning sign.

The Contract Is Unclear or Changes at Signing

Every charge should be itemized before you sign. If fees appear in the contract that were not discussed, ask for a written explanation before signing. The Funeral Rule gives you the right to select only the services you want. A package that bundles services you did not request is not compliant with FTC regulations.

They Discourage Comparison Shopping

You are entitled to call more than one funeral home. A funeral home that makes you feel guilty for asking -- implying it is disrespectful to your loved one -- is not acting in good faith. A funeral home confident in their service and pricing welcomes comparison.

What To Do If Something Feels Wrong

Trust your instincts. You can move the body to a different funeral home if no contract has been signed. File a complaint with your state's funeral regulatory board if you believe a violation occurred. The FTC also accepts complaints at ftc.gov.

Browse and compare funeral homes in your city at funeralhomedirectories.com.