20 Questions to Ask a Funeral Director Before You Decide
The right questions save money, prevent surprises, and help your family make confident decisions.
Most families have never hired a funeral director before. Knowing what to ask can save thousands of dollars and prevent the kind of surprises that add stress to an already difficult time. Here are the 20 questions that matter most, organized by topic.
Questions About Pricing
- Can I see your General Price List?
- What is your basic services fee and what does it include?
- What is the total cost of your least expensive burial option?
- What is the total cost of your least expensive cremation option?
- Are there any required fees or charges beyond what is on the GPL?
- Can I purchase a casket or urn from an outside vendor?
- Do you offer payment plans?
Questions About Services
- What services are included in your packages versus available individually?
- Do you handle all paperwork including the death certificate and permits?
- Can you coordinate with the cemetery, church, or other venues?
- Do you offer grief support resources or referrals for our family?
- What are your hours for visitation and services?
Questions About Cremation
- Do you operate your own crematory or use a third party?
- What is the total cost of direct cremation with no service?
- Can we hold a viewing or visitation before cremation?
- How long does the cremation process take from start to return of remains?
Questions About Pre Planning
- Do you offer pre planning or pre payment options?
- Is the prepaid plan irrevocable or revocable?
- How are prepaid funds held and protected?
- Can a prepaid plan be transferred to another funeral home if we move?
Frequently asked questions
Are funeral homes required to answer questions about pricing?
Yes. Under the FTC Funeral Rule, funeral homes must provide an itemized General Price List to anyone who asks, whether in person, by phone, or by email. They cannot refuse to answer pricing questions or require you to visit in person first.
Can you negotiate with a funeral director?
Yes. While the basic services fee is usually non negotiable, many line items are optional. You can decline services you do not need, bring your own casket or urn, and ask about package discounts. Comparing quotes from multiple funeral homes gives you leverage.
What is a General Price List?
A General Price List, or GPL, is a document every funeral home is required to provide. It lists every service and product offered with individual prices. Reviewing the GPL is the single most important step you can take before making any decisions.
Should you contact multiple funeral homes before deciding?
Yes. Prices for identical services can vary by 50% or more between funeral homes in the same city. Calling three funeral homes and comparing their GPLs takes 30 minutes and can save your family thousands of dollars.
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