Dave Ramsey Blasts $25,000 Funeral Cost. What's the Max You Should Pay?

"The average funeral in America costs about $7,000 and most people should budget $5,000 to $6,000 for this purpose. Costs can vary widely depending on location and service type."

"Some funeral homes use a technique called 'bundling,' where individual items get folded into a package that makes each line item feel minor, causing the total to balloon before anyone realizes."

"The Federal Trade Commission's Funeral Rule requires itemized pricing, meaning families have the legal right to decline any individual item, but most people in grief do not know to ask."

"Financing offers, like the one presented to Jeff's mom, can compound the damage, leading to payments that may exceed what families can afford."

Funeral costs in America average around $7,000, with significant variations based on location and service type. A caller's mother was quoted $25,000 for a pre-paid funeral package, highlighting the exploitation of grieving families. Many funeral homes use bundling techniques to obscure costs, making it difficult for families to negotiate. The Federal Trade Commission mandates itemized pricing, but grieving individuals often do not know to request it. Financing options can further complicate the situation, leading to long-term financial burdens.

Read at 24/7 Wall St.