Understanding Essential Documents

Planning a funeral—whether in advance (pre-need) or at the time of a loss (at-need)—involves important decisions and equally important paperwork. These documents are not just formalities; they are designed to protect families, provide transparency, and ensure the funeral home and funeral director are compliant with both state and federal regulations. At Creran Celebration Etherington & Creran Funeral Homes, we believe in making this process clear, compassionate, and straightforward for every family we serve.

Below, we’ll review the key documents you can expect when making arrangements with us, how they protect you, and the oversight in place to ensure your rights are safeguarded.

A. The General Price List (“Selection Brochure”)

The General Price List (GPL), which Creran Celebration refers to as our “Selection Brochure,” is the foundation of transparency. This required document outlines all available funeral goods and services along with their associated costs. It ensures that every family understands their options and can make informed decisions that meet their needs and budget.

At Creran Celebration, our Selection Brochure is more than just the General Price List—it is a complete informational resource that includes:

• General Price List
  
  
• Casket Price List
  
  
• Outer Burial Enclosure Price List
  
  
• Urn Price List
  
  
• Memorial Items Price List
  
  

This consolidated, consumer-friendly brochure provides everything families need to make informed choices in one convenient guide. It is always available at the planning conversation and can also be accessed anytime at CreranCelebration.com.

How it protects you:

• Provides upfront, itemized pricing in one easy-to-navigate document.
  
  
• Prevents hidden fees or unexpected charges.
  
  
• Ensures compliance with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Funeral Rule.

B. Estimated Statement of Funeral Goods and Services Selected

After discussing arrangements, families receive an Estimated Statement of Funeral Goods and Services Selected. This document is not a contract or binding agreement. Instead, it provides an acknowledged estimate of the services, merchandise, and any anticipated cash-advanced items (such as cemetery or clergy fees) agreed upon by both the funeral director and the consumer.

How it protects you:

• Offers a clear estimate of costs before final decisions are made.
  
  
• Helps families understand how selections affect overall expenses.
  
  
• Serves as a written acknowledgment between you and the funeral director of what has been discussed and chosen.

C. Preneed Funding Agreements (Revocable & Irrevocable)

For families choosing to pre-plan, preneed funding agreements allow money to be set aside in advance for funeral expenses. These agreements can be revocable (funds can be withdrawn if circumstances change) or irrevocable (funds are permanently allocated, often to help qualify for Medicaid).

Unlike some common misconceptions, preneed agreements with Creran Celebration do not lock in today’s prices. Instead, they are structured to help families invest in future growth, which can offset the cost of services and merchandise at the time of need.

How they protect you:

• Ensures funds are securely held in trust or in an insurance product regulated by the state.
  
  
• Provides a financial cushion that grows over time to help offset future funeral expenses.
  
  
• Offers peace of mind knowing your family will have resources available when needed most.

D. Transfer Authorization

This document allows Creran Celebration to respectfully transfer your loved one from the place of death into our care.

How it protects you:

• Establishes consent for the transfer.
  
  
• Documents the chain of custody for accountability.

E. Preparation Authorization

Before embalming or other preparation services are performed, written authorization is required.

How it protects you:

• Ensures only the services you request are provided.
  
  
• Creates a record of consent for legal protection of both the family and the funeral director.

F. Cremation Authorization

Because cremation is irreversible, it requires a specific, detailed authorization form. This is one of the most important documents in funeral service.

How it protects you:

• Provides legal consent from the next of kin.
  
  
• Confirms understanding of the cremation process.
  
  
• Protects families and funeral directors from misunderstandings or disputes.

G. Methods and Terms of Payment

Every arrangement includes a clear explanation of payment terms and accepted methods. At Creran Celebration, transparency is key, so you know exactly how and when payments are due.

How it protects you:

• Prevents confusion about costs or payment deadlines.
  
  
• Provides written acknowledgment of your responsibilities.

Oversight & Consumer Protection

Families can rest assured knowing that funeral service is highly regulated to protect consumers.

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Oversees compliance with the Funeral Rule, requiring transparency, price disclosure, and ethical practices.
  
  
• New Jersey State Board of Mortuary Science: Regulates funeral homes and directors within New Jersey, ensuring professionalism, accountability, and consumer protection.

Online Planning Forms – Convenient, Secure, Accessible

To make planning even easier, Creran Celebration offers a growing library of secure online forms at CreranCelebration.com. Families can complete many required documents from the privacy of their homes, making both pre-need and at-need planning more convenient and less stressful.

Final Thoughts

Funeral planning is one of the most personal and meaningful acts of love and responsibility. By understanding the purpose of these documents, families can feel confident that their wishes will be honored, their rights protected, and their decisions carried out with compassion and professionalism.

At Creran Celebration, our mission is to guide every family with clarity, care, and respect—whether planning ahead or in a moment of need.

#crerancelebration #heartfelt