Describe the same arrangement to each provider

Include the transfer location, the arrangement you are considering, whether you want a gathering, and any burial or cremation arrangements already made. If you are undecided, request separate options instead of a blended total. Keep your description beside the quotes so you can spot a changed assumption.

Under the FTC Funeral Rule, you can select individual goods and services. A funeral home must provide its General Price List when you visit and an itemized statement of the arrangements you select. The Rule has limits: it does not cover independent monument sellers or cemeteries without an on-site funeral home. FTC: your rights under the Funeral Rule

Ask what sits outside the total

The FTC distinguishes a basic services fee, optional services and merchandise, and cash advances for items the provider purchases from others. Ask which charges in your quote are fixed and which are estimates. FTC: funeral costs and pricing checklist

Use a separate line for every amount you have not confirmed. Leave it marked “unknown”; entering zero makes an incomplete quote look complete. Note who gave the quote, when, and how long they say it applies.

  • Does the quote cover transfer from the actual location, including any distance or access charges?
  • Are the container, crematory or cemetery charges, documents, and any requested gathering included?
  • Which payments go to another business, and who will confirm those amounts?
  • What could change the total, and will you ask before adding a service or charge?

Compare the unanswered questions too

Put each provider in a column. Alongside the total, record the included services, excluded items, unresolved amounts, payment terms, and the next person to contact. If one provider includes something another omits, ask for a comparable version before deciding.

Treat a written estimate and a signed agreement as different documents. Read the proposed agreement against your comparison sheet, ask about changes, and keep a copy of what you accept. A clear explanation and a reliable contact belong in the comparison alongside price.

Put it into practice

Your next step

Open the quote worksheet

Use the free worksheet to keep your questions and answers together.

Sources and scope

This is general U.S. planning guidance. Questions and organization tips are suggestions; confirm requirements for your particular arrangements with the responsible provider or agency.