The Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Funeral Rule requires all funeral providers to give information to consumers to help them choose the services and products they want for their deceased relative or friend. Funeral providers must give you a general price of products and services when you ask in person about funeral arrangements and you have the right to keep this list. Furthermore, funeral providers must make price information available over the phone upon request. The funeral provider must give you any other information that is reasonably needed to select the funeral provider and funeral items you want, need, and are able to afford.
If the funeral provider charges a fee for buying "cash advance items," this must be disclosed to you in writing. Cash advance items are those goods and services paid for by the funeral provider on your behalf, such as cemetery plots, flowers, obituary notices, and clergy honoraria. You must also be notified if a service fee is added to the price of cash advance items, and if the funeral provider gets a refund, discount or rebate from the supplier of any cash advance item.
Guam Prearranged Funeral Contract with Statutory Disclosures is a legally binding agreement that allows individuals to plan and prepay for their funeral arrangements in advance. This contract provides peace of mind to Guam residents, ensuring that their final wishes are followed and their loved ones are relieved from the burden of making difficult decisions during a time of grief. The Guam Prearranged Funeral Contract with Statutory Disclosures must comply with the statutory requirements set forth by the Guam Board of Funeral Service, ensuring consumer protection and transparency. It aims to regulate the funeral industry and prevent deceptive practices while safeguarding the rights of consumers. Key elements included in the Guam Prearranged Funeral Contract with Statutory Disclosures are: 1. Identification: The contract must include the legal name, address, and contact information of the person making the arrangements, commonly referred to as the "prearranged." 2. Detailed Services: The contract should outline the specific funeral services and merchandise chosen by the prearranged, such as burial or cremation options, visitation, funeral ceremony, graveside service, transportation, casket/urn selection, embalming, and other associated costs. 3. Payment Terms: The contract must clearly state the total cost of the prearranged funeral and the payment terms, whether it is a single lump sum payment or installment plan. It should also specify how and where the funds will be held, such as in a trust account or an insurance policy. 4. Cancellation and Transferability: The contract should outline the prearranged's rights to cancel or transfer the agreement and any associated fees or penalties. This ensures flexibility for individuals who may need to change their funeral arrangements in the future. 5. Disclosures: The Guam Prearranged Funeral Contract includes statutory disclosures that provide important information to the prearranged. This includes a statement specifying that the funeral home is licensed and regulated by the Guam Board of Funeral Service, indicating that prearranged funds are held in trust or insurance, and informing the prearranged of their rights as consumers under Guam law. Different types of the Guam Prearranged Funeral Contract with Statutory Disclosures may vary depending on the funeral homes or service providers. However, the basic structure and key provisions remain consistent to comply with the statutory requirements established to protect the interests of consumers. In conclusion, the Guam Prearranged Funeral Contract with Statutory Disclosures offers individuals the opportunity to plan and finance their funeral arrangements in advance. This comprehensive agreement ensures that funeral services are carried out as desired and provides peace of mind to both the prearranges and their loved ones.