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.
Wisconsin Prearranged Funeral Contract with Statutory Disclosures is a legal agreement outlining the terms and conditions between a consumer and a funeral service provider in the state of Wisconsin. This contract is designed to protect the rights and interests of both parties involved in prearranging funeral services. The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services oversees the regulation and enforcement of the Wisconsin Prearranged Funeral Contract with Statutory Disclosures. Funeral service providers are required to provide consumers with clear and comprehensive disclosures regarding the funeral services they offer. There are two main types of Wisconsin Prearranged Funeral Contracts with Statutory Disclosures: 1. Revocable Contract: This type of contract allows consumers to make changes or cancel their prearranged funeral plans at any time without penalty. It provides flexibility to individuals who may want to modify their plans in the future due to changes in preferences, financial situations, or other reasons. 2. Irrevocable Contract: An irrevocable contract is binding and cannot be canceled or modified without the written consent of the funeral service provider. This type of contract is typically chosen by individuals who wish to secure their funeral arrangements and ensure that funds set aside for these services are protected. Key statutory disclosures that must be included in a Wisconsin Prearranged Funeral Contract may include: 1. Itemized List of Funeral Goods and Services: The contract must provide a detailed list of all funeral goods and services to be provided, along with their corresponding prices. This ensures transparency and allows consumers to understand the full cost of their prearranged funeral plan. 2. Transferability: The contract should state whether it is transferable to another funeral service provider or funeral home, and if so, under what conditions. 3. Cancellation and Refund Policy: Clear information regarding the terms and conditions for canceling the contract and obtaining a refund, if applicable, must be disclosed. 4. Preservation of Funds: If the contract involves prepayment for funeral services, it should outline the methods used by the funeral service provider to preserve and invest the funds until they are needed. 5. Consumer Rights: The contract should include a statement informing consumers of their rights and protections under Wisconsin law, including the right to cancel the contract within a specified period. It is crucial for both consumers and funeral service providers to thoroughly review and understand the Wisconsin Prearranged Funeral Contract with Statutory Disclosures before signing. Seeking legal advice or consulting the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services can offer further guidance and ensure compliance with the relevant regulations.
