*Funeral Planning*

Funeral planning is something most of us will have to do at one point in our lives, but how do you do it? What do you really need?

Funeral Rules and You

Note:    There is a federal law that makes it easier for you to choose only those goods and services you want or need and to pay only for those you select, whether you are making arrangements preneed or at need.

The Funeral Rule, enforced by the Federal  Trade Commission:

• requires funeral directors to give you itemized prices in person and, if you ask, over the phone...
  
• requires funeral directors to give you other information about their goods and services.

Note:  Many funeral providers offer various "packages" of commonly selected goods and services that make up a funeral.  You do not have to accept a package that may include items you do not want.

According to the Funeral Rule:

• You have the right to choose the funeral goods and services you want (with some exceptions).

• The funeral provider must state this right in writing on the general price list.

• If state or local law requires you to buy any particular item, the funeral provider must disclose it on the price list, with a reference to the specific law.

• The funeral provider may not refuse, or charge a fee, to handle a casket you bought elsewhere .

• A funeral provider that offers cremations must make alternative containers available.

Funeral Costs

The Funeral Rule allows funeral providers to charge a basic services fee that customers cannot decline to pay.

The basic services fee includes:

• funeral planning
• securing the necessary permits and copies of death certificates 
• preparing the notices,
• sheltering the remains
  
• coordinating the arrangements with the cemetery, crematory or other third parties.

Note:  The fee does not include charges for optional services or merchandise.

Charges for other services and merchandise are optional:

• transporting the remains
• embalming and other preparation
• use of the funeral home for the viewing, ceremony or memorial service
• use of equipment and staff for a graveside service
• use of a hearse or limousine
• a casket, outer burial container or alternate container 
• cremation or interment

Cash advances. These are fees charged by the funeral home for goods and services it buys from outside vendors on your behalf:

• flowers,
  
• obituary notices,
  
• pallbearers,
  
• officiating clergy,
• organists and soloists

* The Funeral Rule requires those who charge an extra fee to disclose that fact in writing, although it doesn't require them to specify the amount of their markup.
* The Funeral Rule also requires funeral providers to tell you if there are refunds, discounts, or rebates from the supplier on any cash advance item.

Financing Funerals

There are a number of options for financing funerals, and when you pre-plan your funeral, you can take advantage of the best program for you.Options include:

• preneed insurance policies
• bank or funeral trusts,
• life insurance, and annuities.