Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is authorized to provide financial assistance for COVID-19 related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020.  The criteria to be eligible for assistance is as follows: (1) the death must have occurred in the United States; (2) the death certificate must indicate the death was attributable to COVID-19; (3) the applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after January 20, 2020.  There is no requirement for the deceased person to have been a United States citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien.

To expedite a claim for assistance you are encouraged to keep and gather documentation supporting your claim, including: (1) an official death certificate that attributes the death directly to COVID-19 and shows the death occurred in the United States; (2) documents showing the amount spent on funeral expenses for the decedent; and, (3) proof of any funds received from other sources including burial or funeral insurance, governmental agencies or other voluntary agencies. Those who believe that they meet the above criteria, are encouraged to contact FEMA to apply for assistance.

 

Hodges & Davis, P.C.- April 2021

On March 18, 2021, Attorney Benjamin T. Ballou chaired an ICLEF Virtual Seminar entitled “Trust Planning and Administration from Start to Finish.”  Additionally, Attorney Ballou presented on the following topics: Trustee Rights and Remedies-Dealing with Difficult Beneficiaries and Institutions, and Beneficiary Rights and Remedies-Dealing with a Difficult/Non-Responsive Trustee.  Anyone interested in Trust Planning or Administration, should contact Attorney Benjamin Ballou at Hodges and Davis for more information.

 

Hodges & Davis, P.C.-April 2021

On March 5, 2021, Attorney Benjamin T. Ballou attended the IHSAA case review panel hearing.  The Case Review Panel is a nine-member panel established by the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) and administered by the State Superintendent of Public Instruction.  The Panel reviews final decisions of the IHSAA regarding the application or interpretation of an IHSAA rule to a particular student.

Hodges & Davis-April 2021