(a) In order to determine whether the funeral and burial
expenses are reimbursable, the OAG will review the supporting documentation
provided by the claimant or the service provider. Supporting documentation
includes, but is not limited to, the funeral purchase agreement, a
burial services contract, all other related bills, documentation of
any collateral sources, all other sources of payment made to the service
provider, and any other documentation relevant to the OAG determination.
(b) If the claimant requests reimbursement for any
portion of the funeral and burial bills, he or she must submit proof
of payments to include canceled checks, receipts, or bills indicating
payment was made.
(c) In addition to the funeral purchase agreement,
the following information may be required by the OAG in order to process
payments:
(1) the date of death and the date of the funeral service;
(2) the funeral provider's tax identification number;
(3) an itemization of charges for funeral goods and
services selected;
(4) itemized cash advance items, including an acknowledgment
of such by the claimant; and
(5) any additional supporting documentation requested
by the OAG.
(d) The general price list of the funeral service provider
applicable on the date of the service may be reviewed by the OAG.
Expenses must be verifiable, usual and customary charges and in compliance
with the rules and regulations set forth by the licensing entity governing
the industry.
(e) If a funeral service provider makes payments to
a third party including, but not limited to, other funeral homes,
embalming services, airlines, or air freight companies relating to
the funeral and burial of the victim, documentation must be provided
to substantiate the expenses. This may include an itemization of any
costs or additional charges associated with cash advance items.
(f) The funeral service provider must notify the OAG
of all payments received by the funeral service provider including
payments received after the funeral purchase agreement has been submitted.
If changes occur or payments are received after the original submission,
the funeral service provider is obligated to notify the OAG, in accordance
with this chapter.
(g) If the victim is shipped, the claimant or funeral
service provider must submit a bill including: victim's name, cities
of departure and arrival, an itemized invoice, a Burial Transmit Permit
(Form VS-116) or apostille issued by the appropriate authority, regardless
of the method of transportation.
(h) Documentation and services submitted by the funeral
service provider must comply with the rules and regulations of the
licensing entity governing the industry, as well as any state or federal
regulations governing the industry or profession.
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