Which of the following is a requirement for a funeral director operating a preneed trust?

For a funeral director operating a preneed trust, annual auditing of the trust fund is essential. This requirement helps ensure transparency and accountability regarding the funds held in trust for future funeral services. Regular audits safeguard the interests of consumers by verifying that the funds remain intact and are managed according to established regulations. These audits typically involve reviewing financial records, confirming that funds are allocated correctly, and ensuring that the trust complies with state laws governing preneed contracts.

Having an annual audit also provides peace of mind to consumers, as it reassures them that their pre-funded arrangements are secure and properly maintained. This requirement is particularly important in California, where regulations are stringent about how preneed trusts should operate, to prevent mismanagement or misuse of client funds.

The other options do not align with the regulatory framework guiding preneed trusts. Regularly increasing fees could lead to confusion and dissatisfaction among consumers, while immediate withdrawal of funds conflicts with the very nature of a trust, which is designed to preserve funds until the time they are needed. Providing refunds for unused services is not universally required, as it can depend on specific contractual agreements made between the funeral director and the client.