Can funeral directors in Tennessee charge additional fees beyond those listed on the General Price List?

The correct answer is that additional fees must be disclosed prior to providing services. In Tennessee, as in many jurisdictions, funeral homes are required by the Federal Trade Commission's Funeral Rule to provide transparency in their pricing. This means that any fees, including additional charges that may not be included on the General Price List, must be communicated to clients before any services are performed.

This requirement ensures that families are fully informed about the costs they will incur, allowing them to make decisions that fit their budget and needs. By disclosing these fees in advance, funeral directors maintain ethical practices, foster trust, and uphold consumer protection standards within the funeral industry.

It’s important for clients to understand the entire financial aspect of funeral services, which is why pre-emptive disclosure of potential additional fees is crucial. Adhering to this regulation is not only a legal obligation but also part of providing respectful and professional service to grieving families.