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West Virginia Income Maintenance Manual Chapter 20

West Virginia Income Maintenance Manual Page 47 Chapter 20 Emergency and Special Assistance Programs

The casket shall be at least, but shall not exceed, a flat top or oval top constructed with wood or wood products and covered with such exteriors as doeskin, lambskin, moleskin, plain or embossed cloth. No casket other than that which is described above shall be used unless the Funeral Home Director does not have an appropriate casket or outside container available and he agrees to absorb the higher cost of the more expensive casket or outside container. If anyone (e.g. relative, friend, etc.) provides a better or more expensive casket than that which is described above, the DOHS will not participate in the payment of the burial expenses. 20.3.7.A.2 Direct Cremation Direct cremation is the preferred method under the indigent burial program. Direct burial is used in place of cremations pursuant to the decedent’s religion or otherwise prohibited by federal law, state law or regulation in which case, burial will be substituted in place of cremation. Direct cremation includes the removal of the remains from the place of death; container; and crematory fees. The applicant and Funeral Home Director must understand that the burial rate ($1,000) and maximum allowable payment ($2,200) will apply to cremations as well as any other interment plan. 20.3.7.A.3 Burial of Two or More Bodies in One Casket In certain rare situations, when it is warranted by the condition of the bodies, or when it is desired by the family, the DOHS will make payment for the burial of two bodies in one casket, but this payment is the same amount for a single body. The next of kin or any persons who may be chargeable with the burial expenses of the deceased, or the person taking responsibility for making the burial arrangements, and the Funeral Home Director must agree to this type of interment. The Funeral Home Director also must notify the DOHS prior to the burial that two or more bodies are placed in the same casket and state the reason given for this type of arrangement. Burial of Two or More Bodies in One Casket Example: Two infants are buried in a casket. The DOHS will pay only the burial rate of $1,000 and apply the maximum allowable payment of $2,200. 20.3.7.A.4 Green Burial