Selecting a Funeral Home

The funeral director you choose plays a critical role in planning the memorial, funeral, or burial and can help you manage many other details. When choosing a funeral home, be sure to select one that is well established in the community and is a member of the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA). If you are unfamiliar with the funeral homes in the area, ask a relative, friend, doctor, or clergy person, or contact the National Funeral Directors for a listing of member funeral directors in the area.

One of immediate decision you will have to make is the final care of the body. A funeral home will not only help with the funeral arrangements but also help you decide on the final care of the body depending upon the wishes and religious beliefs of the deceased, your options are burial, cremation or entombment in a mausoleum. Cremation is usually the least expensive.

Additional considerations include:

• Should the funeral casket be open or closed?
• Do you have appropriate clothing for your loved one to be buried in?
• Should you have a formal funeral service or a graveside service?
• Who will conduct the funeral service—a priest, a friend or the funeral home?
• Who will speak at the funeral service?
• Are pallbearers required?
• Will you need the services of a driver or limousine?
• Do you prefer flowers or charitable donations as a way to honor the deceased?
• Who will write the obituary? Which paper(s) should it be sent to? What are the costs?
• Is a grave liner or a burial vault necessary?
• Will you have a get-together after the service or burial for family and close friends?

Also read the Federal Trade Commission's Consumer Guide to Funerals. It goes into detail on what to expect when planning a funeral, how to protect yourself as a consumer , and the choices you will have to make.