26.1-16-16. Application for and certificate of membership - Contents - Approval - Maximum benefits - Expense deductions

26.1-16-16. Application for and certificate of membership - Contents - Approval - Maximum benefits - Expense deductions. The certificate of membership issued by a benevolent society must state fully the conditions on which the benefit is paid. The certificate of membership and the application for the certificate constitute the entire contract between the society and the member. Every certificate and application must have printed or stamped thereon in red ink and in ten-point boldfaced type "This is not an insurance policy. The society maintains no reserve. All benefits are dependent upon voluntary assessments from members." The insurance commissioner shall approve the form of the certificate and application prior to their issuance or use. The benefits under any certificate must be confined to a death benefit to the beneficiary of the deceased member in an amount not to exceed two thousand dollars, and the certificate must provide for an assessment on the membership in an amount not exceeding four dollars to be paid by the members after notice and proof of death. The proceeds of the assessment, less an amount not exceeding ten percent thereof as an allowance for expenses, must be paid to the beneficiary of the deceased member. A death benefit may not exceed the maximum amount stated in the certificate.