Can funeral homes in Ohio charge a fee for pre-need contracts?

Funeral homes in Ohio are allowed to charge a fee for pre-need contracts. This practice is regulated by state law, which means that while funeral homes can include fees in their pre-need contracts, they must also be transparent about these charges with consumers. Pre-need contracts are arrangements made in advance for funeral services, allowing individuals to pre-pay for their funeral expenses.

The justification for allowing fees in these contracts is based on the resources and arrangements that the funeral homes provide upfront, as well as the administrative responsibility of maintaining these accounts until the service is rendered. Additionally, the Ohio laws governing pre-need funeral contracts also require that the terms and conditions, including any applicable fees, be clearly outlined to the consumer, thus ensuring informed decision-making.

In contrast, prohibiting fees or requiring special permissions would complicate the process and potentially deter individuals from making pre-need arrangements, which are beneficial for both families and funeral service providers in planning future services.