Questions to Ask Funeral Directors When Choosing a Funeral Home

You’ve just lost someone, and now you’re faced with the daunting task of choosing a funeral home. It’s overwhelming, isn’t it? You’re dealing with a mix of grief, exhaustion, and a sudden need to become an expert on something you never wanted to learn about. You might feel a little awkward or intimidated, like you don’t know the right things to say. Don’t worry, that’s completely normal.

But here’s the thing: you are the consumer. You have rights, and you need information to make the best decision for your family and your budget. Walking in with a list of questions, even a simple mental list, can help you feel more in control and ensure you get all the details you need. It’s about being prepared, not about being pushy. Consider this your go-to guide for those conversations.

Before You Even Walk in the Door…

Before you start making calls or visiting places, it’s a good idea to do a little research. A quick search can help you understand your consumer rights under The Funeral Rule, which gives you the power to ask for price lists and choose only the services you want. You should also take a look at funeral home reviews online to get a sense of what other families’ experiences have been like. This can help you decide which places to prioritize in your search.

Just a quick thought: as you’re researching, you’ll probably notice there are different types of places out there. There are big, national corporations, and small, family-owned businesses. You might find it helpful to look into the differences between a local vs. a chain funeral home to see which one feels like a better fit for your family’s needs and values.

Essential Questions to Ask During Your Visit

When you’re face-to-face with a funeral director, this is your chance to get the information you need. Don’t be shy. Here are some of the most important questions to ask, broken down by category.

Pricing & Transparency Questions

This is often the most stressful part, but it’s also the most important. A good funeral home will be open and honest about their costs.

• Can I see your General Price List (GPL)? (This is a must-ask question—it’s your legal right!)
• What is included in your basic services fee?
• Do you offer packages, and am I required to purchase one?
• Can I provide a casket or urn from an outside vendor? Are there any fees for doing so?
• What are the payment options? Do you offer payment plans?

Service & Facility Questions

These questions help you get a sense of the place itself and the kind of care they provide.

• What types of services do you offer (e.g., cremation, burial, memorial services)?
• Do you handle everything on-site, or do you use third-party providers for things like cremation or embalming?
• What are your policies on viewing and embalming? (Remember, embalming is not always required.)
• Are there any specific facilities you have that would be good for my family? (e.g., a quiet room, a children’s area).

Special Needs & Flexibility Questions

Every family is different, and a good funeral home will be able to accommodate your unique needs.

• Can you accommodate a specific cultural or religious tradition?
• Do you have experience with unique funeral arrangements? For example, some families need to find specialized funeral homes that cater to veteran burials or unique ceremonies.
• How can you help with arranging a reception or a meal after the service?
• Can we involve family members in any of the preparation or ceremonies?

Putting It All Together

Walking into a funeral home prepared with these questions will make a huge difference. It allows you to focus on the information you need rather than getting lost in the emotions of the moment. If you’re concerned about remembering everything, consider printing a simple funeral home visit checklist to take with you. You’ll be able to compare funeral home prices and services with clarity, and most importantly, you’ll feel confident that you’re making the right choice for your loved one’s final arrangements.