Choosing a provider

How to choose a funeral home or funeral provider

The right funeral home is the one that can provide the arrangement your family wants at a price and level of service you understand. Comparing two or three providers can reveal major differences in both cost and communication.

Reviewed September 28, 2026

Key points

Call providers and ask for price information before visiting when possible.
Use the same list of requested services so comparisons are fair.
Ask for the General Price List and any separate merchandise price lists that apply.
Confirm what is handled in-house and what is charged by a cemetery, crematory, newspaper, government office, or other third party.
Pay attention to responsiveness, clarity, ownership, location, and whether the staff respects the family's choices without pressure.

Start with the type of arrangement you want

A provider that is a good fit for a traditional funeral with viewing may not be the best fit for direct cremation, a religious ceremony, a green burial, a large memorial, or an out-of-state transfer. Define the main arrangement first so you can compare relevant providers.

Call and ask for prices

The FTC Funeral Rule requires funeral directors to give price information by phone when asked. You do not have to give your name, address, or telephone number before receiving the information.

Ask each provider the same questions and write down the answers. If the staff will not clearly explain prices or keeps redirecting you toward a package before answering, that is useful information for your comparison.

Compare the General Price List

When you visit a funeral home to discuss arrangements, it must provide a written General Price List. Compare the specific goods and services your family is considering instead of trying to compare package names that may include different things.

If casket or outer burial container prices are separate, ask for those lists before viewing the merchandise.

Ask what is included and what is not

A quote may exclude significant outside charges. Ask about cemetery fees, crematory charges, transportation, death certificates, permits, obituary placement, clergy or celebrant fees, and other cash-advance items.

If the provider uses another crematory or third-party facility, ask who that company is and how the process works.

Consider service and ownership, not only price

The FTC notes that some funeral homes that appear local may be owned by a larger company. If local or independent ownership matters to you, ask directly.

Also consider the provider's location, facilities, accessibility, responsiveness, after-hours communication, cultural or religious experience, and whether you feel comfortable asking questions without pressure.

Questions worth asking every funeral home

A short standard list makes comparison easier.

What is the total expected price for the arrangement I described?
What is included in that price and what is separate?
Which items are optional?
Which charges come from third parties?
What happens if plans change?
Who will be my main contact?
Do you own the crematory or use another company?
Are you independently owned or part of a larger company?

Sources and further reading

Funeral Funnel uses primary government and consumer-protection sources when a guide depends on legal rights, government benefits, or official processes. Requirements can change, so confirm important details with the responsible agency or provider.

Turn the guidance into a personal checklist

Tell Funeral Funnel about the timing, location, and type of arrangements you are handling. We will organize the next steps into a plan you can work through with family.

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