What is the purpose of the Georgia C 15 form?
The Georgia C 15 form serves as a report and itemized list of all unserviced preneed funeral contracts as of December 31st of the specified year. This report is required by Georgia law, specifically O.C.G.A. 10-14-12(g), to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of preneed funeral contracts. It helps regulatory authorities monitor compliance and protect consumers who have made advance arrangements for funeral services.
Who is required to file the Georgia C 15 form?
Funeral homes and registrants that offer preneed funeral contracts must file the Georgia C 15 form. This includes any entity that has entered into agreements with clients for funeral services to be provided in the future. It is essential for these entities to keep accurate records and submit the form annually to remain compliant with state regulations.
What information is required on the form?
The form requires several key pieces of information. Registrants must provide their registration number, the total number of unserviced contracts, and their contact information. Additionally, for each preneed funeral contract, details such as the contract holder's name, depository, date of contract, total amount, amount paid to date, and bank account number must be included. If there are more contracts than can fit on the form, additional pages may be attached with complete information.
When is the Georgia C 15 form due?
The Georgia C 15 form must be submitted annually, with the reporting date set as December 31st of the previous year. It is crucial for registrants to be aware of this deadline to avoid potential penalties or compliance issues. Timely submission ensures that all records are up-to-date and accurately reflect the status of preneed funeral contracts.
What happens if a funeral home fails to file the form?
If a funeral home does not file the Georgia C 15 form by the deadline, it may face legal consequences, including fines or other penalties. Additionally, failure to comply can lead to increased scrutiny from regulatory authorities and may jeopardize the funeral home’s ability to operate or offer preneed contracts in the future. Maintaining compliance is essential for the reputation and legal standing of the business.
Is there a certification requirement associated with the form?
Yes, the Georgia C 15 form includes a certification section. The individual filing the report must certify, under penalties of perjury, that the information provided is true and correct to the best of their knowledge. This certification is a critical component of the form, as it underscores the importance of accuracy and honesty in reporting.
Can additional pages be attached to the form?
Absolutely. If the number of unserviced preneed funeral contracts exceeds the space available on the form, additional pages can be attached. Each attached page must contain the same detailed information for every contract holder as required on the original form. This allows for comprehensive reporting while ensuring compliance with state regulations.
Where should the completed Georgia C 15 form be submitted?
The completed Georgia C 15 form should be submitted to the Georgia Secretary of State’s office, specifically to the Division of Securities and Business Regulation. The address for submission is 2 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, S.E., Suite 802 West Tower, Atlanta, Georgia 30334. It is advisable to keep a copy of the submitted form for your records.
Who can I contact for assistance with the form?
If you have questions or need assistance with the Georgia C 15 form, you can contact the Georgia Secretary of State’s office directly at (404) 656-3920. They can provide guidance on completing the form, understanding the requirements, and addressing any specific concerns you may have regarding preneed funeral contracts.