Ensure Wise Decision-Making, Know The Facts

(NAPS) - There are many professionals who are called upon to help a family during difficult times. The obvious are a doctor and lawyer. Another important professional in the community is the funeral director. He or she will be able to offer help and guidance during one of life's most difficult times.

The funeral director can be called anytime, day or night, including holidays. If a death occurs away from home, your funeral director should be called to arrange the necessary preparation and transportation details.

This decision should be made the same way you would as when selecting any professional to handle something important for you. Choose a funeral home that has a good reputation in the community and one that is a member of the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA). If you are unfamiliar with the funeral homes in your area, ask a relative, friend, hospice or clergy person or doctor for a recommendation, or call NFDA at 800-228-6332 for a listing of member funeral directors in your community.

Consider meeting with a few different funeral directors in advance to determine with whom you are comfortable and the range of services offered at a cost that meets your needs.

The funeral director can help a family create a ceremony that celebrates a life lived, which can be an important part of the healing process. He or she will also be able to coordinate the services of many community resources that also may provide additional support.

Funeral costs will vary depending on the services and merchandise selections made. Under the Federal Trade Commission regulation, funeral directors will provide a general price list of itemized costs of all options offered by their funeral home at the time arrangements are first discussed or over the telephone if a consumer inquires about the costs.

"Consumers have control of how much they spend, and your funeral director will work to meet your personal wishes to stay within your financial means," says Robert Harden, NFDA Executive Director.