Who Can Help Pay for a Funeral in Pennsylvania?

Funeral costs in Pennsylvania can be difficult for families to manage, but various programs and organizations are available to help cover these expenses. From government benefits to non-profits and local programs, families have options for financial assistance. Below is an overview of resources available to help pay for a funeral in Pennsylvania, along with a table for easy reference.

Social Security Benefits

If the deceased was receiving Social Security benefits, their spouse or children may be eligible for a one-time death benefit of $255. This benefit is available nationwide, including Pennsylvania.

• Eligibility: Surviving spouse or children of the deceased.
• Link: Social Security Administration

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Burial Assistance

For low-income individuals and families, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services offers burial assistance through its emergency assistance programs. While specific programs may vary by county, the goal is to help cover funeral and burial costs for those who qualify based on financial need.

• Eligibility: Low-income individuals who qualify for assistance.
• Link: Pennsylvania DHS

Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits

Veterans and their families may be entitled to burial benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The VA offers burial allowances, funeral honors, and access to national veterans’ cemeteries. In Pennsylvania, veterans may also be eligible for burial at state-run veterans’ cemeteries.

• Eligibility: Eligible veterans and dependents.
• Link: VA Benefits

County Burial Programs

Several counties in Pennsylvania offer burial assistance programs for individuals who cannot afford funeral expenses. These programs provide financial assistance for indigent burials and cremations for individuals who meet the county’s eligibility criteria.

• Eligibility: Low-income individuals with no family to cover funeral expenses.
• Link: Contact your local county government for details.

GoFundMe and Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe allow families to raise funds for funeral expenses by soliciting donations from friends, family, and the community. While not guaranteed, these platforms can help families collect funds for funeral costs.

• Eligibility: Anyone can set up a campaign.
• Link: GoFundMe Funeral Fundraising

Non-Profit Organizations

Several non-profit organizations in Pennsylvania provide funeral assistance to families in need, particularly in cases of sudden or tragic loss. These organizations focus on helping families with the burial or cremation costs for children, veterans, and low-income individuals.

State and Federal Assistance for COVID-19 Deaths

For families who lost a loved one to COVID-19, FEMA provides reimbursement for funeral expenses. The program covers funeral costs for deaths attributed to COVID-19 that occurred after January 20, 2020.

• Eligibility: Death attributed to COVID-19 after January 20, 2020.
• Link: FEMA Funeral Assistance

Charities and Non-Profits That Help Pay for Funerals in Pennsylvania

Several non-profit organizations help families in Pennsylvania cover funeral expenses, particularly in cases where children or veterans are involved, or when families are facing financial hardship.

The Final Farewell Foundation

This non-profit provides financial assistance for funeral expenses for children. The foundation helps low-income families ensure that their children receive a dignified burial or cremation.

• Eligibility: Low-income families needing assistance with child funeral expenses.
• Link: Final Farewell

Children’s Burial Assistance

This organization helps families who cannot afford burial expenses for their children. Children’s Burial Assistance provides financial support to ensure that every child receives a dignified burial.

• Eligibility: Families in need of help with child burial costs.
• Link: Children’s Burial Assistance

The TEARS Foundation

The TEARS Foundation offers grants to help with the funeral costs of infants and young children. In addition to financial assistance, they provide emotional support for grieving families. The foundation operates across the U.S., including Pennsylvania.

• Eligibility: Parents needing help with infant funeral expenses.
• Link: TEARS Foundation

Modest Needs

Modest Needs offers short-term financial assistance to individuals and families facing unexpected financial hardship, including funeral costs. The organization focuses on helping those who don’t qualify for traditional welfare programs.

• Eligibility: Individuals or families facing short-term financial hardship.
• Link: Modest Needs

The American Legion

The American Legion provides funeral assistance for veterans and their families. Veterans in Pennsylvania may also qualify for burial at state veterans’ cemeteries, which offer low-cost or free burials.

• Eligibility: Veterans and their families.
• Link: American Legion

Funeral Consumers Alliance

The Funeral Consumers Alliance provides resources and information on affordable funeral planning. While they do not offer direct financial assistance, they help families reduce funeral costs by offering guidance on more cost-effective options.

• Eligibility: Anyone needing help with funeral planning.
• Link: Funeral Consumers Alliance

Local Churches and Religious Organizations

Many churches and religious organizations in Pennsylvania provide funeral assistance to their members or the broader community. Some offer free or reduced-cost services, while others may assist families by raising funds through donations.

Table of Resources for Funeral Assistance in Pennsylvania