Which of the following features must be included in the statement of funeral goods and services?

The requirement for a statement of funeral goods and services to include itemization of cash advance items and total cost is grounded in federal regulations, particularly the Funeral Rule established by the Federal Trade Commission. This rule mandates that funeral providers must provide consumers with a clear and itemized list of all goods and services to ensure transparency and enable informed decision-making.

Including cash advance items—such as fees for obituaries, flowers, or transportation—which may require payment to third parties, allows consumers to understand the full scope of their financial obligations. This itemization helps families plan their budgets more effectively while minimizing unexpected costs. The total cost summarization, in conjunction with the itemization, ensures that consumers are fully aware of their expenses before proceeding with any arrangements.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the established requirements for the statement of funeral goods and services. While employee training certifications, photos of available caskets, and customer satisfaction surveys may serve different roles in a funeral home’s business strategy, they are not legally mandated components that must be included in this specific statement according to the relevant laws and regulations.