What does the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Funeral Rule mandate?

The Federal Trade Commission's Funeral Rule specifically mandates that funeral providers are required to disclose prices and services to consumers. This rule is designed to promote transparency and allow consumers to make informed decisions regarding funeral services. By ensuring that providers offer a detailed, itemized list of their services and corresponding prices, the Funeral Rule helps to protect consumers from potentially deceptive practices and encourages competition among funeral service providers.

The rule does not stipulate that providers must offer free services, nor does it require them to provide information on the psychological aspects of grief. Additionally, while the FTC establishes important regulations, it does not approve individual funeral services, making the requirement for FTC approval of all funeral services incorrect. Thus, the correct understanding of the Funeral Rule is centered around the imperative for price and service disclosure, which empowers consumers in their decision-making process during a vulnerable time.