Can the member use an obituary in lieu of a death certificate?
No, while it can be appreciated that obituaries have been used as proper documentation in the past, it was never the intent under the policy. A certified true copy of the death certificate is required. CTA can be granted for the immediate family of either the member or the spouse. The funeral home or someone responsible for the proceedings would be able to provide a copy of the death certificate. The authority only exists to reimburse up to $50 with receipt to obtain a medical certificate no provision provides for any form of substitute documentation.
