How should optional versus required services be presented in the GPL?

How should optional versus required services be presented in the GPL?

• A. List all services with a single bundled price.
• B. Distinguish optional services from required items and show the price for each.
• C. Display only the total price for all services.
• D. Exclude optional services from pricing.

Answer: (B)

Presenting prices with clear itemization and distinguishing what is required from what is optional is how the FTC Funeral Rule ensures price transparency. In a General Price List, the basic services of the funeral director and staff are a defined component, but many other services and merchandise are optional add-ons. By separating these items and showing the price for each one, consumers can see exactly what they’re paying for and compare options across providers. This approach prevents hiding costs in a bundled price and lets a consumer decide which optional services to add, rather than being surprised by a single total that masks the components. Displaying only a total or omitting prices for optional items would mislead or hinder comparison, which is not allowed. Therefore, clearly distinguishing optional items from required ones and listing the price for each is the proper way to present the GPL.

Presenting prices with clear itemization and distinguishing what is required from what is optional is how the FTC Funeral Rule ensures price transparency. In a General Price List, the basic services of the funeral director and staff are a defined component, but many other services and merchandise are optional add-ons. By separating these items and showing the price for each one, consumers can see exactly what they’re paying for and compare options across providers.

This approach prevents hiding costs in a bundled price and lets a consumer decide which optional services to add, rather than being surprised by a single total that masks the components. Displaying only a total or omitting prices for optional items would mislead or hinder comparison, which is not allowed. Therefore, clearly distinguishing optional items from required ones and listing the price for each is the proper way to present the GPL.