Wisconsin Consumer Rights - Funeral Rule
Understand your rights when arranging a funeral in Wisconsin under the FTC Funeral Rule.
Consumer Rights - Funeral Rule in Wisconsin
The Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Funeral Rule protects consumers when making funeral arrangements. This federal law applies to all states, including Wisconsin, and gives you specific rights when working with funeral providers.
Note: The FTC Funeral Rule is a federal regulation that applies uniformly across all U.S. states, including Wisconsin. Your rights are the same regardless of which state you're in.
Your Rights Under the Funeral Rule
The Funeral Rule gives you the right to:
- Get Price Information Over the Phone: Funeral homes must provide price information over the phone if you ask for it
- Receive an Itemized Price List: You have the right to see a written price list (General Price List) before discussing services
- Choose Only What You Want: You can select only the goods and services you want, except for certain basic services
- Get a Casket Price List: You have the right to see prices for caskets before viewing them
- Use an Alternative Container: For cremation, you can use an alternative container instead of a casket
- Provide Your Own Casket: You can purchase a casket elsewhere and the funeral home must accept it
What Funeral Homes Must Provide
- General Price List (GPL): A written list of all goods and services with prices
- Casket Price List: Prices for all caskets available
- Outer Burial Container Price List: Prices for vaults and grave liners
- Statement of Funeral Goods and Services Selected: An itemized list of what you've chosen and the total cost
Protection Against Misrepresentation
The Funeral Rule also protects you from:
- Being told that embalming is required (it's not, except in specific circumstances)
- Being told you must purchase a casket for cremation (you don't)
- Being charged for services you didn't request
- Being pressured into buying more expensive items
What to Do If Your Rights Are Violated
If you believe a funeral home has violated the Funeral Rule:
- Contact the FTC at 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357)
- File a complaint online at www.ftc.gov
- Contact your state's consumer protection agency
- Contact your state's funeral board or licensing agency
Remember: You have the right to shop around and compare prices. Don't be afraid to ask questions and take your time making decisions during this difficult time.