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SNAP/TANF Program Policy Manual CHAPTER: 4800 BURIAL SECTION: 4800.00.00 BURIAL ASSISTANCE ASSISTANCE

4800.00.00 BURIAL ASSISTANCE (C)

This chapter includes policy and procedures on the following: • Estate of the Deceased (Section 4805); • Maximum Payments for Burial Expenses (Section 4810); • Submission of Burial Claims to the DFR (Section 4815); • Consideration of Burial Claims by the DFR (Section 4820); • Verification by Central Office of Burial Contributions (Section 4825); • Available Death Benefits (Section 4830); and Footnotes for Chapter 4800 (Section 4899).

Deceased TANF recipients are eligible for Burial Assistance. Payment is made by the Local Office of the Division of Family Resources. The State reimbursement is 60% of the amount expended by the Local Office.

A recipient is eligible for Burial Assistance regardless of where their death occurs or whether the funeral and interment takes place in Indiana or elsewhere.

An individual who was receiving TANF cash assistance at the time of death, or who applied for benefits prior to his death and was subsequently determined eligible is eligible for Burial Assistance. (f1) 4805.00.00 ESTATE OF THE DECEASED (C)

The estate consists of all assets, including both real and personal property, owned by the deceased recipient. An estate need not be established by formal legal proceedings. However, the value of the estate may be established by the DFR, and a determination made of the total amount payable for burial expenses. The total value of the real and personal property may be considered, but the DFR will not sell such property since this exceeds its legal authority.

If it is determined that the estate can make full or partial payment, the funeral director and/or cemetery representative are to be advised that they should file a claim against the estate. 4805.05.00 RESOURCES OF THE DECEASED (C)

The resources of the deceased recipient, such as a burial trust, bank account, or personal funds remaining on account in a nursing home, shall be used to meet burial expenses.

The funeral director and/or cemetery representative must obtain these funds as payment for burial expenses in accordance with Indiana Probate Code (IC 29-1-1 et seq.).