What percentage of the total contract amount must a cemetery authority deposit for services into the trust fund?

In Washington, cemetery authorities are required to deposit a specific percentage of the total contract amount for services into a trust fund to ensure that funds are available for the future care and maintenance of the cemetery. The law mandates that this percentage is set at 50%.

This regulation is designed to protect consumers by ensuring that a substantial portion of the funds paid for services is reserved for long-term care, rather than being spent immediately. By depositing 50% into a trust fund, the cemetery authority not only adheres to legal requirements but also demonstrates a commitment to future services, contributing to the overall stability and accountability of the cemetery operation.

Such regulations are critical for maintaining the integrity of cemetery services and ensuring that adequate resources are preserved to honor the commitments made to families who purchase burial or interment services. This helps to safeguard the interests of consumers and maintain the memorialization environment for future generations.