How not to let funeral scams compound your grief
Experiencing loss can be overwhelming. Simple tasks can seem daunting and hard to navigate. Unfortunately, those experiencing loss can be susceptible to scams from strangers, friends and even family members. Common funeral scams involve prepaid funeral packages scams, impersonation scams and burial insurance scams. Being aware of funeral scams can save you and your family heartache during an already emotional time.
Although most people would rather not think about funerals, pre-planning a funeral can help alleviate some of the stress of losing a loved one. Pre-planning allows you to take your time with making decisions and thoroughly research the companies you’re working with.
The Better Business Bureau offers these tips for avoiding funeral home scams:
■ Compare prices of multiple funeral homes. Ask for a written price list of products and services offered. Legally, funeral homes are required to provide a general price list upon request. If the funeral home you’re working with is hesitant to give you a copy, it’s best to find a funeral home that will. Understand the fees. Know how much each good and service costs and if there will be any additional charges down the road.
■ Know how much you would like to spend and which goods and services you feel are a must. Don’t tell a funeral director how much you’re prepared to spend.
■ Avoid emotional overspending and be wary of funeral directors who drive you to make decisions out of guilt, as they are likely a more expensive product than you need.
■ Know the laws and regulations. In some states, the law requires specific goods and services to be purchased.
■ Thoroughly read all contracts and ensure all verbal agreements are included.
■ Keep records of funeral plans with your estate documents or in a lockbox.
■ Avoid prepaying, especially through a third party site. Only prepay if you know the services are legitimate.
■ Avoid unsolicited calls from funeral home employees. Scammers pose as employees and try to get your payment information. If you receive a call asking for money or payment confirmation, call your funeral home before doing anything else.
■ Stop if you feel rushed or suspicious. Take time to think and ask someone you trust for their opinion.
■ Be mindful of messages with a sense of urgency. Scammers may try to get you to act fast before you have time to think.
■ Understand what you’re getting in a prepaid funeral contract. Does the plan cover only merchandise or does it include services as well? Know what will happen to the money you paid and whether you’re protected if the funeral home folds. Make sure to share these details with those closest to you.
Understanding the reality of funeral home scams can help save you and your family members stress and heartache. Visit BBB.org for a list of BBB Accredited funeral homes and profiles on companies you’re considering. If you or a loved one have fallen victim to funeral scams, report it to BBB Scam Tracker at BBB.org/scamtracker or the Federal Bureau of Investigation.