For Consumers

Here at the Capital District Funeral Directors Association we know an educated consumer is an empowered consumer. As not everyone has had the experience of making funeral arrangements on behalf of a loved one, we’re here to provide you with the quality of funeral-related information that will make a real difference for you during what is a most challenging time. Whether you need information on funeral costs, available funeral planning services, pre-need planning, ways of coping with bereavement, resources about resolving funeral home complaints; this section of our website is designed specifically with you in mind.

Funerals & Memorial Services

What is the difference between traditional funerals and memorial services? This is just one question we address in this section. Additional topics include ways to personalize a funeral, an overview of funeral etiquette, how to write an obituary, among others.

Choosing a Funeral Home

When faced with a death, people often select the funeral home most frequently used by their relatives and friends. But families should realize that this “traditional choice” may not be the best option for them. Here’s what we’d like you to know about how to choose a funeral home.

Understanding the General Price List

Have you ever seen a funeral home’s General Price List? Required of all funeral establishments by the Federal Trade Commission as part of The Funeral Rule, the GPL plays an essential part in making funeral arrangements. Here’s what you need to know when investigating funeral costs in your area.

Planning a Funeral Service

Unless you’ve had the experience of making funeral arrangements, perhaps you’re wondering what’s involved in planning a funeral or memorial service for a loved one. This section will guide you in planning and arranging a funeral in tribute to their life and achievements.

Funeral Costs

Today’s families want to know: what does a funeral cost? While we know a funeral offers survivors a priceless remembrance experience, if you are concerned about funeral costs, or need help with funeral costs, this page provides an overview of average funeral costs.

Pre-Need Funeral Planning

Advance planning: it’s one smart way to save money on funeral costs and to relieve your bereaved survivors of the burden of making funeral arrangements on your behalf. If you’re concerned about the cost of a funeral, or simply wish to make these decisions for yourself, visit this page.

Death Certificates

The death certificate is the permanent record of the fact of death. It is one of the most important documents you’ll need in the weeks after the funeral. Learn how to obtain certified copies of your loved one’s death certificate.

Grief Support Resources

When a loved one dies, we're often disoriented in your own life, unable to recognize safe harbors of place and thought. Our resources can help you make sense of this new reality.