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How to Compare Funeral Home Prices: A Practical Worksheet
Two funeral quotes can look alike and still cover different arrangements. One might include transportation and a crematory fee. The other might list those separately. A lower package price doesn’t tell you which bill will be lower once everything is added up.
The easiest way to compare is to write down one service request and give the same one to every provider.
Describe the arrangement before asking for the price
Start with what you already know: burial or cremation, whether there’ll be a viewing, whether you want a ceremony, and where the person needs to be collected from. Mention any cemetery arrangements that are already in place.
If some decisions are still open, ask for a base arrangement plus a separately priced option. For example, direct cremation, with the extra cost of a private viewing shown on its own line.
That way you’re comparing the same service, and the family still has room to decide later.
What documents should you request?
A General Price List, often called a GPL, sets out a funeral provider’s prices. Your itemized statement or proposal applies those goods and services to the arrangement you choose.
The FTC Funeral Rule requires covered providers to give you a GPL when you discuss arrangements in person. The rule also entitles you to a written statement of the…
