According to FTC compliance requirements, what cannot a funeral home require for direct cremation?

In the context of FTC compliance requirements regarding funeral services, a funeral home cannot require the purchase of a casket for direct cremation. The Federal Trade Commission's Funeral Rule emphasizes consumer rights and mandates that funeral providers disclose pricing and options clearly. When it comes to direct cremation, the crematory must allow families the option to use an alternative container. This means that while an urn or alternative container may be offered for purchase, the funeral home cannot mandate that a casket be bought as a prerequisite for cremation services. This regulation is in place to ensure that the process remains accessible and affordable, allowing families to make choices based on their needs and financial circumstances.

Other options such as purchasing an urn or an alternative container may be offered voluntarily, but they are not mandatory for the direct cremation process. Additionally, while a burial plot is relevant to traditional burials, it does not apply to direct cremation, further clarifying the distinction in requirements.