How long must a funeral director keep a copy of each completed statement of funeral goods and services?

The requirement for how long a funeral director must retain a copy of each completed statement of funeral goods and services is set by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) under the Funeral Rule. According to these regulations, funeral homes are required to keep these records for a period of one year from the date of arrangement. This retention period ensures accountability and provides a means for the FTC to review compliance with the Funeral Rule if necessary.

Understanding the significance of this duration is crucial for funeral directors to ensure they adhere to federal regulations and can respond to any inquiries or audits effectively. The one-year timeframe balances the need for record-keeping with the practicalities of managing business operations while ensuring consumer protection.