Recently, Xue et al. [Computers and Mathematics with Applications 55 (2008) 1215-1224] proposed a formula for the expected value of a function of a fuzzy variable based on the assumption that the fuzzy variable has a continuous membership function. In conclusion, they remained the case where the membership function of the fuzzy variable is discontinuous for the future research, and then expected to get similar results. Thus this note is to propose a new formula for the expected value of a function of a general fuzzy variable which is not restricted on having a continuous membership function. Furthermore, we give an example which cannot be applied to the formula that Xue et al. proposed. We also use the same example given by Xue et al. to show how to apply the new formula.