Sometimes when people are faced with the sudden death of a loved one, they just go through the motions without even thinking about what they are doing. They are really sad, and they are forced into planning funeral arrangements quickly. Things move really fast when a funeral is being planned, and people often regret decisions they make as far as the arrangements go, once they are thinking with a clear mind again. Even though you will be sad if your loved one passes away, you need to pause and think about important things such as what your rights are in the planning process. This is important, because you don’t want to make bad decisions simply because you are grieving. It is best to take a friend or someone else along when you plan the funeral arrangements, so that you have moral support and someone by your side who can help you make decisions that are in your best interests.
Consumer Rights and the Funeral Rule
Most people are under the belief that funeral homes make all of the rules where funerals are concerned, but this just isn’t true. You have rights when you are planning funeral arrangements. The Funeral Rule of 1982 is enforced by the Federal Trade Commission, and this rule lays out the rights that people have when they are planning funerals. Funeral homes must abide by these rules, or they could face severe penalties and fines. However, the rule does not apply to cemeteries, crematoriums, or other venders. Some funeral homes will try to take advantage of the situation when family members are emotionally distraught, which is why the Funeral Rule was created in the first place. Most funeral homes are honest, but a few bad ones are the reason for the rule. Funeral homes will sell you items such as caskets, but you have the right to refuse that service from them. Just because they are holding the funeral that you have planned does not mean that you have to buy their products. You can buy a cheaper casket from an independent company if you choose, and the funeral home must abide by your decision. Every mortuary San Diego CA establishment is aware of the Funeral Rule, and most of them will do their best to offer you affordable prices on products that they sell. Just make sure that you aren’t paying too much for products if you purchase them through the funeral home.
Funeral Providers and Pricing
The funeral director or provider will give you a detailed casket price list before you select a coffin. The same applies to vaults and other types of burial containers. They will explain the prices, and they will tell you how good of quality each product is before you make a selection. Make sure everything is written into a contract, so that the prices are locked into place.
