What must a cemetery authority provide to the survivor handling burial arrangements?

The correct answer highlights the importance of providing a preneed agreement to the survivor handling burial arrangements. A preneed agreement is a legally binding contract that outlines the terms of service for burial or interment arrangements made in advance of death. This document typically details the specifics of the burial services selected, the cost, and any other arrangements made before death, such as the selection of a burial plot or the type of memorialization chosen.

Providing the preneed agreement ensures that the survivor is aware of the arrangements that have been pre-established, thus simplifying the process during a difficult time. It helps to clarify the services that have already been paid for or arranged, preventing confusion or miscommunication regarding burial preferences.

In contrast, other options such as a burial permit are necessary for legal compliance in the burial process but do not convey the same level of prearranged detail about the services and preferences of the deceased. A cash refund may not be applicable unless there was an overpayment or a cancellation of services. A sales contract, while relevant in some cases, typically pertains to current arrangements rather than pre-committed ones. Therefore, the preneed agreement is essential to ensure that the survivor is fully informed about past arrangements, thus providing clarity and peace