How to keep funeral costs low
By Ellen Goodstein • Bankrate.com

A funeral service is one of the biggest purchases a consumer will make. It's right up there with buying a car and a house, says Brenda Mack, a public affairs specialist at the Federal Trade Commission.

Consumers need to take their time and not be pressured into buying funeral goods or services that they don't need or want and that they may end up spending years to pay off, says Mack.

To help consumers make smarter choices when negotiating for funeral arrangements, the FTC recommends following a few guidelines:

Shop around in advance.
Compare prices from at least two funeral homes.

Ask for a price list.
Remember, the law requires funeral homes to give you a written price list for goods and services.

Resist pressure.
Don't buy goods and services you don't need or want.

Avoid emotional overspending.
It's not necessary to have the fanciest casket or the most elaborate funeral to properly honor a loved one.

Recognize your rights.
Laws regarding funerals and burials vary from state to state. It's a smart move to know what your state requires you to purchase and which products or services are optional.

Apply the same smart shopping techniques you use for other major purchases.
You can cut costs by limiting the viewing to one day or one hour before the funeral and by dressing your loved one in a favorite outfit instead of costly burial clothing.

Plan ahead.
This allows you to comparison shop without time constraints. Planning also creates an opportunity for family discussion and lifts some of the burden from your family.

For more information on funerals, check out the Funeral Consumers Alliance, AARP, and the National Funeral Directors Association.

Ellen Goodstein is a freelance writer based in Florida.