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TRADITIONS FOR TRANSITION
The Jewish Way in Death and Mouring
A Seminar covering Shiva, Bereavement Support,
Making Sacred Decisions, Outreach Issues and Planning a Funeral


HOW TO PLAN A FUNERAL

Presented by
Steven C. Dranow

Preneed Funeral Arrangements


SSI/Medicaid and PrePaying Funeral Expenses

In 1982, an amendment to the Social Security Act implemented a program so that SSI/Medicaid eligible persons can set aside funds for their funeral and burial - before their resources are exhausted, by medical bills or their income declines to such a level that they need the cash assistance provided by the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.

SSI/Medicaid allows you to have the following assets:

1. Personal Items

  • clothing, furnishings, appliances, jewelry, equipment, car

2. Cash
(limited to $3,750 per individual or $7,200 per couple)

  • In hand
  • In the bank
  • In trust (held by someone)
  • Stocks or other "cashable" assets
  • Existing whole life insurances

3. PrePaid Irrevocable Contract for Funeral Arrangements

Federal and State law permit, through the use of qualified trust funds, the prepayment of funeral arrangements. When applying for SSI/Medicaid programs, the funds set aside in an irrevocable pre-paid funeral account will be excluded as resources.

Ten Reasons Why You Should Make
Preneed Funeral Arrangements

1. GUARANTEED PRICE
 All funeral home service charges, livery and merchandise items are priced as per the terms of the New York State PrePlanTM contract.

2. SUBSTANTIAL SAVINGS
 You decide now what type of arrangements you want and how much you want to spend... at at ime when decisions will be made calmly and intelligently.

Many funeral homes allow for flexible financing.

3. SECURITY
 New York State Law requires 100% of your money be deposited in a special trust fund.

All accounts are fully insured to the extent permitted by law by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

4. CONVENIENCE
 You can make preneed Funeral arrangements in a funeral home or in the comfort, privacy and security of your own home.

5. NO HEALTH OR AGE RESTRICTIONS
 NY State preneed programs are not insurance funded.

You can participate in this program regardless of your age or health status.

6. TRANFERABILITY
 In the event that you move, your preneed funeral contract is transferable.

7. MODIFICATION
 You can modify your preneed funeral contract at anytime...without penalty.

8. UNDERSTANDING PRENEED STAFF
 Professional counselors are dedicated exclusively to serving the needs of preneed families, explaining all of your options and benefits in a relaxed, stress-free environment.

In New York State, you must be a State licensed Funeral Director to make Pre-need arrangements with a family.

9. ELIMINATE DOUBTS
 Spare your family the emotional stress of making decisions during a difficult time.

A preneed funeral arrangement records your exact wishes - consider it the final gift for those you love.

10. PEACE OF MIND
 Responsible estate plannning requires many considerations.

  • Life insurance proceeds provide supplemental survivor income
    and may be necessary for unpaid medical and legal expenses.

  • Your will distributes your estate according to your instructions.

  • A preneed funeral contract offers your family inflation protection
    .
    Also, you'll be sure in knowing that you have spared your loved ones added stress, worry, anxiety and expense by prearranging your funeral in writing.


 

Jewish Funeral Directors of America
Hellman Memorial Chapels
15 State Street
Spring Valley, NY 10977
(845) 356-8600

Hellman-Garlick Memorial Chapel
170 Kings Ferry Road
Montrose, NY 10548
(914) 762-5501