What does the term "preneed" refer to in Missouri funeral law?

The term "preneed" in Missouri funeral law refers specifically to arrangements and financial payments made for funeral services prior to death. This concept is crucial for individuals who wish to plan their funerals in advance, allowing them to choose specific services, products, and even the location of their final arrangements, while securing payments for these services ahead of time.

By engaging in preneed planning, individuals can alleviate the financial burden on their families and ensure their preferences are honored. This can include selecting a casket, burial plot, and any other specific services desired, which are often outlined in a binding contract with a funeral service provider. Preneed arrangements are regulated under Missouri law to protect consumers and ensure that the funds are managed properly for the eventual use during the funeral.

In contrast, other options describe scenarios that do not involve prearranging services before death or engage in activities posthumously, such as making arrangements only after death or in conjunction with a will, which do not fully encapsulate the essence of preneed planning.