What should we document so relatives do not fight about embalming and viewing options later?

When relatives disagree about funeral arrangements, identify the person with legal authority to control disposition before anyone signs conflicting instructions. When the available services are compared, requirements can depend on state or local rules, the condition and timing of the remains, transportation, and the funeral home's policies for certain types of viewing. The FTC Funeral Rule generally requires providers to explain that embalming is usually not legally required and that the provider needs the required authorization before performing it. Get a written line by line breakdown of the charges, and confirm the origin of any claimed requirement before payment, distinguishing law and cemetery policy from the provider's own practice.