Who can alter a pre-need contract once it has been signed?

The ability to alter a pre-need contract is restricted to the individual who originally signed it or their legal representative. This safeguard is in place to protect the interests of the consumer and ensure that any changes to the agreement reflect their wishes.

The rationale behind this rule stems from the importance of consent and authorization in contracts. A pre-need contract represents a binding agreement between the consumer and the funeral service provider, outlining the terms and conditions of services to be rendered in the future. Allowing only the signer or their legal representative to make alterations prevents unauthorized modifications by third parties, which could otherwise lead to disputes or misrepresentation of the deceased's or the signatory's wishes.

This rule also upholds the integrity of the contract, ensuring that both parties adhere to the agreed-upon terms unless officially amended by the appropriate party. In situations where the signer is unable to act (due to death or other circumstances), their legal representative, such as an executor or someone with power of attorney, is given the authority to make necessary changes to ensure that the original intent is realized.