Paying any sum of money by a funeral director for securing business, after a death or while a death is impending, is an example of what?

• A. A recommended business practice
• B. An acceptable business practice
• C. A questionable business practice
• D. An unlawful business practice

Answer: (D)

Paying money to secure funeral business around the time of death is considered an unlawful business practice because it amounts to an improper inducement or kickback to influence a bereaved family’s decision. California law and funeral service ethics prohibit offering money or other valuables to obtain referrals or business, especially when a death is imminent, to protect families from pressure and ensure decisions are made freely and based on service quality and pricing. This is not just frowned upon or questionable; it’s prohibited, which is why the correct answer identifies it as unlawful.