Your rights
Your Rights Under the FTC Funeral Rule
Reviewed by the Plainfare editorial team · Updated June 1, 2026
The Funeral Rule, enforced by the Federal Trade Commission since 1984 (16 CFR Part 453), exists to protect families from being pressured into paying for goods and services they do not want. It applies to every funeral home in the United States. Knowing these rights before you call a provider can save you thousands of dollars.
Common questions
Can I get prices over the phone?
Yes. The Funeral Rule requires funeral homes to give price information over the telephone to anyone who asks. The FTC guide for funeral homes says they cannot require your name, address, or phone number before they answer, and must answer even if you decline to give them.
What is a General Price List?
The General Price List, or GPL, is an itemized list of every good and service a funeral home offers with the price of each. Funeral homes must hand you a printed copy to keep once you begin discussing arrangements in person, at the funeral home or anywhere else.
Do I have to buy a package?
No. You have the right to buy only the individual goods and services you want, with limited exceptions. A funeral home cannot refuse to sell items separately or charge a fee for choosing not to buy a package.
Is embalming required?
In most cases, no. Embalming is rarely required by law. A funeral home may not tell you it is required when it is not, and it cannot charge a fee for embalming without permission unless state law requires it in a specific circumstance.
Can I buy a casket somewhere else?
Yes. You may buy a casket or urn from a third party, including online retailers. The funeral home must use it and cannot charge you a handling fee for doing so.
What is the basic services fee?
This is a non-declinable fee that covers the funeral director and staff for planning, permits, and coordination. It is the one fee every funeral home is allowed to require, and it must be disclosed on the GPL.
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