The law also prohibits funeral providers from making claims that funeral goods, such as caskets or vaults, will keep out water, dirt, or other gravesite substances if that is not true. Other Considerations Most decisions about purchasing funeral goods and services are made by people when they are grieving and under time constraints. Thinking ahead may help you make informed and thoughtful decisions about funeral arrangements, allow you to choose the specific items you want and need and compare prices offered by one or more funeral providers. If you decide to make advance plans about funeral arrangements either for yourself or a loved one, you can choose among several types of dispositions and ceremonies. Your choice will affect the cost.
Some people prefer a ceremonial service, religious or secular, with the body present.
Others prefer cremation, which may be performed directly or after a ceremony. To help ensure that your wishes are carried out, you may want to write down your preferences, and tell relatives and family friends what you decided. Most states have a licensing board that regulates the funeral industry. You may contact the licensing board in your state for information or help. If you want additional information about how to make funeral arrangements and the options available, you may want to contact interested business, professional, and consumer groups.