When looking for a funeral bureau in your area, you may have questions about pricing, options and services. You need to find a place that you can trust, and one that can provide you with the best service.
Preneed trusts
Creating a funeral trust can be a helpful way to save money for your loved ones’ burials. However, these arrangements can be complicated. Luckily, there are some important steps you can take to make sure the process goes smoothly.
A preneed trust is a legal agreement between you and a third party. You agree to pay for services such as burial and cremation in advance. Those funds are then deposited into an interest-bearing account. Once the person passes away, the money is withdrawn from the account.
Most states will restrict how much you can put into your preneed account. For example, Maryland cemeteries must deposit five percent of the sale price of caskets into your preneed trust account at the time of the contract.
Multiple-depth graves
Double depth graves are nothing new. In fact, some cemeteries will even offer you a double dig. The question is whether you want a multiple depth or a single space for you departed one? A double will cost you a hefty sum while a single is typically more affordable. Choosing a grave is a personal decision so you should do your homework before you jump into the deep end.
The best way to go about choosing a cemetery is to shop around. This is especially true if you are in a tight spot. Aside from the usual suspects, there are plenty of reputable family owned businesses that have the right touch.
Fees for embalming
If you are thinking of having a funeral for a loved one, you might want to consider embalming. Embalming can delay the decomposition process for a period of time, but it is not guaranteed to keep the body preserved indefinitely.
Typically, funeral homes will charge a fee for embalming. The fee usually does not exceed $1,000. The cost will depend on the type of service and the amount of time it takes to finish the process.
Some funeral homes may offer package pricing. This allows the consumer to pay for all the services they need in advance. They will also have an option to purchase an urn ahead of time, which can save hundreds of dollars.
Exemptions from delivery of money to funeral establishments
The Funeral Rule outlines the requirements that must be followed by funeral providers. The rule, which became effective on April 30, 1984, was revised in 1994. It is a very important piece of legislation that must be followed by any provider who is in the funeral industry.
The rule, which is a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulation, requires that all funeral establishments give consumers certain information. The rule also sets out how these establishments are required to give price lists.
Before a consumer purchases any funeral goods or services, a provider must give them a general price list. This list is designed to allow them to make a comparison shop. It will contain itemized prices, as well as identifying information.
Federal law requires quotes for cemetery goods
The federal government requires funeral providers to provide consumers with free information regarding pricing and services. To be effective, the information must be displayed in a conspicuous manner. The most efficient format is a printed price list, but some providers prefer to use a downloadable e-book, e-card, or e-newsletter. Regardless of the form, the information must be accompanied by a short and concise statement about the information.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has put together a set of guidelines to assist funeral directors in preparing the right documents at the right time. The most reputable funeral homes have taken note of the new guidelines and are well-prepared to make sure that their consumers are properly served.
Rules governing embalming
Embalming is an important part of funeral arrangements. It preserves the remains for viewing and delays the decomposition process. It is also used to prepare the body for removal. The process requires approval from the family. However, if the family does not want embalming, the funeral director can refuse to provide the services.
When the family decides to have the body embalmed, the Funeral Rule requires the provider to disclose the price. The price should include materials, equipment, and professional services. It is also a good idea to include a description of the services and equipment used for embalming.
If the price of embalming is not disclosed, the funeral provider is violating the law. The commission may impose a penalty of up to $46,517 per violation.