The Neptune Society is a large funeral home chain that offers cremation services. In recent years, the company has been involved in several lawsuits alleging deceptive business practices and financial misconduct.

California Lawsuit

In 2019, the California Attorney General sued the Neptune Society for allegedly pocketing $100 million that should have been kept in reserve for customers who purchased prepaid cremation plans. The lawsuit also alleged that the company failed to issue full refunds to customers who canceled their contracts.

The Neptune Society has denied the allegations in the California lawsuit. The case is still ongoing.

Florida Lawsuit

In 2020, a class-action lawsuit was filed against the Neptune Society in Florida alleging similar deceptive business practices. The lawsuit alleged that the company misled customers about the terms of its pre-need funeral plans and failed to issue full refunds to customers who canceled their contracts.

In 2023, the Neptune Society settled the Florida lawsuit for $209 million. The settlement provides for full refunds to all Florida customers who purchased pre-need funeral plans from the company since 2016.

What to Do if You Are Affected by the Neptune Society Lawsuit

If you purchased a pre-need funeral plan from the Neptune Society in California or Florida, you may be entitled to a refund. To find out more information about the lawsuits and your rights as a consumer, please visit the following websites:

• California Attorney General’s Office: https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/attorney-general-becerra-files-unlawful-business-practices-action-against
• Florida Attorney General’s Office: https://connectingdirectors.com/64369-sci-settles-florida-suit

Conclusion

The Neptune Society lawsuits are a reminder that it is important to do your research before purchasing any pre-need funeral plan. Be sure to read the fine print and understand the terms of the contract before you sign. You should also ask about the company’s refund policy in case you need to cancel your plan.

FAQs

Q: What is a pre-need funeral plan?

A: A pre-need funeral plan is a contract between you and a funeral home that allows you to lock in the price and terms of your funeral services in advance. This can be a good way to avoid inflation and ensure that your wishes are carried out.

Q: What should I look for in a pre-need funeral plan?

A: When choosing a pre-need funeral plan, be sure to compare prices and services from different funeral homes. You should also read the fine print and understand the terms of the contract, including the refund policy.

Q: What are the risks of purchasing a pre-need funeral plan?

A: The main risk of purchasing a pre-need funeral plan is that the funeral home may go out of business before you die. If this happens, you may not be able to get a refund or have your funeral services carried out as planned.

Q: What should I do if I need to cancel my pre-need funeral plan?

A: If you need to cancel your pre-need funeral plan, be sure to contact the funeral home in writing. The funeral home should issue you a refund, minus any cancellation fees.

Q: What are my rights if I am affected by the Neptune Society lawsuit?

A: If you purchased a pre-need funeral plan from the Neptune Society in California or Florida, you may be entitled to a refund. To find out more information about the lawsuits and your rights as a consumer, please visit the following websites:

• California Attorney General’s Office: https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/attorney-general-becerra-files-unlawful-business-practices-action-against
• Florida Attorney General’s Office: https://connectingdirectors.com/64369-sci-settles-florida-suit

Q: What are some tips for avoiding scams when purchasing a pre-need funeral plan?

A: Here are some tips for avoiding scams when purchasing a pre-need funeral plan:

• Do your research and compare prices and services from different funeral homes.
• Read the fine print and understand the terms of the contract, including the refund policy.
• Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics.
• Don’t sign a contract unless you are completely comfortable with the terms and conditions.

Resources

• California Attorney General’s Office: https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/attorney-general-becerra-files-unlawful-business-practices-action-against
• Florida Attorney General’s Office: https://connectingdirectors.com/64369-sci-settles-florida-suit
• Federal Trade Commission: https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/documents/plain-language/565a-complying-with-funeral-rule_2020_march_508.pdf