If a funeral home offers cremation, what must they also offer?

When a funeral home offers cremation services, it is required to provide alternative containers for sale. This is important because, under federal regulations, specifically the Funeral Rule set by the Federal Trade Commission, funeral providers must allow families the option of using an alternative container, should they choose to forego a traditional casket for cremation. Alternative containers can include simple boxes or other materials that are suitable for cremation, which cater to different preferences and budgets.

Offering alternative containers ensures that the funeral home is compliant with legal obligations and meets the diverse needs of families who may seek a more economical or environmentally friendly option at a time when they are making sensitive decisions. This requirement is essential for transparency and customer choice. It reflects the funeral home's commitment to honoring the wishes of the deceased and their families, making it a fundamental aspect of providing cremation services.

Other options, such as embalming services, grave markers, and funeral services, may be part of the offerings at a funeral home, but they are not mandated by law when cremation is selected. Therefore, it is the provision of alternative containers that stands out as a necessary component of a cremation service.