According to FTC regulations, what must the funeral director do regarding services selected?

The requirement for funeral directors to itemize all costs stems from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Funeral Rule, which was designed to promote transparency and protect consumers in the funeral industry. By itemizing costs, funeral directors ensure that families can see and understand the various charges associated with different services and products offered. This detailed breakdown allows consumers to make informed decisions based on their specific needs and budget.

Itemization supports the principle of full disclosure, enabling families to compare prices and services among different funeral homes, which fosters competition and helps prevent unfair pricing practices. It empowers families, allowing them to select only the services they require and to avoid unexpected charges. Through this regulation, consumers can navigate the often distressing process of arranging a funeral with clarity and assurance that they are being treated fairly.

Other options do not align with the FTC's goals in protecting consumer rights as directly as itemizing costs does. For instance, while providing a verbal estimate might give a rough idea of costs, it lacks the precision and clarity of an itemized list. A total package price might simplify choices but does not offer the granularity that allows consumers to tailor services to their needs. Listing only optional services does not fulfill the requirement of showing all costs and may leave out necessary expenses that families