What is the FTC Funeral Rule?
The Funeral Rule is a regulation enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that has been in effect since 1984. It was created to protect consumers from unfair and deceptive practices in the funeral industry.
The rule gives you clear rights around pricing transparency, itemized services, and — most importantly — your ability to purchase caskets and other funeral goods from any source you choose.
Your Rights Under the Rule
- You have the right to buy a casket from any retailer, including online stores like Snapfuneral.
- Funeral homes must accept a casket purchased elsewhere and cannot charge a handling fee for doing so.
- Funeral homes must provide itemized pricing so you can select only the services you want.
- You cannot be required to buy a package deal — every service must be available individually.
- Funeral homes must give you price information over the phone if you ask.
- You cannot be told that a casket from an outside source is unsafe or unacceptable.
What This Means in Practice
When you order a casket through Snapfuneral and provide your funeral home’s address at checkout, we ship directly to them. They are legally required to accept it. They cannot charge you extra, refuse delivery, or make the process difficult.
Caskets purchased through a funeral home often carry a significant markup — sometimes 200–400% over wholesale cost. The FTC Funeral Rule exists specifically so families are not locked into that arrangement.
You have the legal right to exercise this option during one of the most difficult times in your life. Snapfuneral is here to make it straightforward.
Official Source
The FTC Funeral Rule is documented in full by the Federal Trade Commission. You can read the official guidance at the link below.
Source: ftc.gov — The FTC Funeral Rule