A funeral is often referred to as a “distressed purchase” as it is oft made when you are feeling most vulnerable but it is always good practice to shop around for funeral services just like any other consumer purchase. 

The Federal Trade Commission's Funeral Practices Trade Regulation Rule, as well as a number of Illinois state regulations, regulates the funeral profession in Illinois. These laws are designed to prevent fraud by making members of the general public better-informed consumers of funeral goods and services. The federal rule is complicated, but there are some important points to know. Funeral directors in illinois must make their prices available over the phone and a general price list available as you start any discussions about a funeral service. At the conclusion of discussions, a funeral director must provide an itemized statement reflecting the goods and services you have selected.

Unless required by law, a funeral director must first obtain permission before embalming. A funeral director may not require a casket before a cremation, although a simple container is required. The federal rule forbids a funeral director from representing that state or local laws require embalming or a casket for cremation when they do not. 

If for any reason you have a formal complaint against a funeral home in Illinois, you should firstly try to resolve it direct with the business concerned.  If you do not reach a satisfactory conclusion then you may make a written complaint to:

Controller's Office 
State of Illinois
Director of Cemetery Care and Trust
State of Illinois Center
#15-500
100 Randolph Street West
Chicago, IL 60601