Funerals can be an expensive and stressful time, especially if you’re not prepared for the costs. Thankfully, several resources in Alberta can assist with covering the financial burden. This guide provides an overview of the federal, provincial, and local support options that may be available to you.
1. Federal Resources
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Death Benefit
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) offers a one-time death benefit of up to $2,500 for the estate of a deceased individual who contributed to the plan. This money can be used to help cover funeral expenses.
- Eligibility: The deceased must have contributed to CPP during their working life.
- How to apply: The application can be submitted through Service Canada by the estate executor or next of kin.
Veterans Affairs Canada Funeral and Burial Program
If the deceased was a veteran, Veterans Affairs Canada offers a Funeral and Burial Program that can cover the cost of necessary funeral expenses. This support is provided to veterans who die due to a service-related injury or when their family cannot afford the funeral.
- How to apply: Contact Veterans Affairs Canada for eligibility information and application processes.
Indigenous Services Canada – Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB)
First Nations and Inuit individuals can access funeral and burial assistance through the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program, which helps cover certain funeral costs, including transportation of the deceased.
- Eligibility: Available to First Nations and Inuit people.
- How to apply: Visit the Indigenous Services Canada website or contact your local community health services.
2. Provincial Resources
Alberta Supports – Income Support Funeral Benefit
The Alberta government offers a funeral benefit through the Income Support Program for individuals or families who are in financial need. This assistance is meant to cover essential funeral and burial services for individuals with low income.
- Eligibility: Available for individuals receiving Alberta Income Support or those with no other means to pay for funeral services.
- What’s covered: Basic burial or cremation, transportation of the deceased, and essential funeral services.
- How to apply: Applications are managed through Alberta Supports, or you can contact your local Alberta Supports office.
Alberta Employment Standards – Death Benefits
Some employment contracts in Alberta provide for death benefits that can help cover funeral costs. These benefits may be part of workplace agreements or union contracts, so it’s important to check with the deceased’s employer or union.
- How to inquire: Contact the employer or the Alberta Labour Relations Board for more details.
3. Local and Community Resources
Local Charitable Organizations
In Alberta, many charitable organizations offer support for funeral costs to those in need. For example:
- The Salvation Army: Offers financial assistance and support for low-income families struggling to afford a funeral.
- Local Churches, Mosques, and Temples: These institutions often have community funds that can help with funeral expenses, or they may offer space for services at no charge. Contact local religious organizations for more information.
Crowdfunding and Community Support
Families in Alberta often turn to crowdfunding platforms such as GoFundMe to raise money for funeral expenses. This allows friends, family, and community members to contribute financially.
Funeral Homes with Payment Plans
Some funeral homes in Alberta offer flexible payment plans for families who need time to cover the costs. Contact funeral homes in your area to inquire about these options. Some may even provide lower-cost services for families with financial hardship.
Additional Sources of Information
If you’re looking for more information or emotional support, the following organizations can provide guidance:
- Alberta Funeral Services Regulatory Board (AFSRB): This organization regulates funeral services in Alberta and can help you understand your rights when planning a funeral. Visit AFSRB for more information.
- Alberta Supports: Offers comprehensive information on government assistance programs, including funeral benefits, through their offices and website.
- Service Canada: For federal benefits like the CPP Death Benefit, visit Service Canada.
Table of Resources
| Source of Support | Amount of Money Available | Link to More Information |
|---|---|---|
| Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Death Benefit | Up to $2,500 | CPP Death Benefit |
| Veterans Affairs Canada Funeral and Burial Program | Varies based on need and service | Veterans Affairs Canada |
| Indigenous Services Canada – Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) | Varies, covers transportation and burial | Indigenous Services Canada |
| Alberta Supports – Income Support Funeral Benefit | Covers basic funeral costs | Alberta Supports |
| Local Religious and Charitable Organizations | Varies based on organization | Contact local organizations directly. See also table below. |
| Crowdfunding (e.g., GoFundMe) | Varies, based on contributions | GoFundMe |
| Funeral Homes with Payment Plans | Flexible payment options available | Contact local funeral homes for details |
Charities that may be able to help, for those that qualify
Here’s a table listing potential charities in Alberta that may help fund a funeral or be able to direct you to resources that can help.
| Charity Name | Amount Available | Who Qualifies | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Salvation Army – Alberta Division | Varies based on need | Low-income individuals and families unable to afford funeral costs | Salvation Army Alberta Phone: 1-800-725-2769 |
| St. Vincent de Paul Society | Varies based on need | Individuals or families in financial distress, including those facing funeral costs | St. Vincent de Paul Alberta Phone: 780-471-5577 |
| Bissell Centre – Edmonton | Varies based on need | Low-income families in Edmonton, particularly those facing crisis situations | Bissell Centre Phone: 780-423-2285 |
| Calgary Urban Project Society (CUPS) | Varies based on need | Low-income families and individuals in Calgary struggling with funeral costs | CUPS Calgary Phone: 403-221-8780 |
| Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary | Varies based on need | Members of the diocese or parish communities experiencing financial hardship | Catholic Diocese of Calgary Phone: 403-218-5500 |
| Jewish Family Services Calgary | Varies based on need | Jewish community members facing financial difficulty for funeral expenses | Jewish Family Services Phone: 403-287-3510 |
| Islamic Relief Canada | Varies based on need | Muslim families and individuals in financial distress | Islamic Relief Canada Phone: 1-855-377-4673 |
| The Mustard Seed | Varies based on need | Individuals and families experiencing homelessness or extreme poverty in Alberta | The Mustard Seed Phone: 1-877-731-7333 |
This table provides a list of charitable organizations that may offer assistance for funeral expenses in Alberta, along with contact information for each. Be sure to contact them directly to verify eligibility and available support.
Contact the Resources Directly for Additional Information and Assistance
When planning a funeral in Alberta, it’s crucial to reach out directly to the organizations and programs mentioned in this post. Each program may have specific eligibility criteria, application processes, and documentation requirements. By contacting them directly, you can ensure you receive accurate and up-to-date information about the assistance available.
- Service Canada: For federal programs like the CPP Death Benefit, it’s best to contact Service Canada directly for support. Their website provides comprehensive details, and customer service representatives can guide you through the application process.
- Alberta Supports: For provincial benefits, including funeral assistance through the Alberta Supports program, visit their website or contact their offices. Representatives can provide guidance on eligibility and help you apply for support.
- Veterans Affairs Canada: If the deceased was a veteran, Veterans Affairs Canada can assist with funeral costs. Reaching out to them ensures you understand the full range of benefits available for veterans and their families.
- Local Charitable and Religious Organizations: Contact local organizations like The Salvation Army or religious communities directly to inquire about funeral assistance. Many of these organizations work closely with families to provide financial and logistical support.
By taking the time to connect with these resources, you can find the right assistance for your situation and relieve some of the financial stress associated with funeral planning.
