Funeral expenses can be challenging for families, but Maryland offers several resources to help manage these costs. This guide covers state, federal, local, and nonprofit programs, as well as tribal and religious support options for Maryland residents.
Government Funeral Assistance Programs
Here are resources for federal, state and municipal funeral costs assistance programs.
Maryland State Programs
Maryland has programs that provide financial assistance to families who cannot afford funeral costs. These include:
- Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) Burial Assistance Program: Provides up to $650 toward burial or cremation expenses for low-income families or individuals who qualify for Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) or other DHS benefits. Learn more at Maryland DHS Burial Assistance.
- County Assistance Programs: Some Maryland counties offer additional burial or cremation aid for indigent residents. Contact your local social services department for details.
Federal Assistance Programs
Federal programs available in Maryland can also assist with funeral expenses:
- Social Security Death Benefit: A one-time $255 payment is available to survivors of eligible deceased individuals. Visit Social Security Administration for more information.
- Veterans Affairs (VA) Burial Benefits: Eligible veterans and their families may qualify for funeral allowances, cemetery plot coverage, and more. Learn about eligibility at VA Burial Benefits.
Local and Community Resources
Local governments and organizations across Maryland offer financial support to help cover funeral costs. Examples include:
- Montgomery County Burial Assistance: Provides aid for low-income families. Learn more at Montgomery County Services.
- Baltimore City Social Services: Offers emergency financial assistance, which may include funeral costs. Visit Baltimore City Social Services.
- Prince George’s County Crisis Assistance: Families in crisis can seek help with funeral expenses through local programs. Contact Prince George’s County Services.
See also: County funeral funding
Nonprofit Funeral Assistance Programs
Nonprofits play a key role in supporting Maryland families with funeral costs. Some organizations to consider include:
- Catholic Charities of Maryland: Provides emergency financial assistance for qualifying families, including funeral support. Visit Catholic Charities Maryland.
- United Way of Central Maryland: Offers connections to resources that can help with funeral expenses. Call 2-1-1 or visit United Way Maryland.
- Salvation Army Maryland: Provides emergency financial aid for funeral costs. Visit Salvation Army Maryland.
Tribal Assistance Programs
Maryland has a rich Native American history, and members of federally recognized tribes may be eligible for funeral assistance through their tribal offices or federal programs. While Maryland does not have tribes headquartered in the state, nearby tribes such as the Nanticoke Indian Tribe in Delaware may provide assistance to members living in Maryland.
Charitable Organizations
National charities also operate in Maryland and provide support to families in need of funeral assistance:
- Funeral Consumers Alliance (FCA): Advocates for affordable funerals and offers educational resources. Visit FCA for more information.
- Modest Needs Foundation: Provides short-term financial assistance to families facing funeral costs. Learn more at Modest Needs.
- See also: Charities that can help
Religious and Cultural Organizations
Religious and cultural groups in Maryland may provide funeral assistance to their members. Some examples include:
- Archdiocese of Baltimore: Catholic churches in the Archdiocese may offer emergency aid for funeral expenses. Visit Archdiocese of Baltimore.
- Jewish Community Services Baltimore: Offers support for Jewish families in need, including funeral assistance. Learn more at JCS Baltimore.
- Search for a Local Church: Catholic, Protestant: Use online directories to find nearby churches that may provide funeral assistance. Visit Catholic Directory or The Gospel Coalition.
Crowdfunding Options
Crowdfunding is a common way for Maryland families to raise money for funeral costs by engaging their communities. Popular platforms include:
- GoFundMe: Create a funeral fundraiser at GoFundMe.
- FundRazr: Another effective platform for personal campaigns. Visit FundRazr.
Comparison Table: Funeral Assistance in Maryland
| Resource | Type of Assistance | Eligibility | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland DHS Burial Assistance | Up to $650 for funeral expenses | Low-income families | Apply via Maryland DHS |
| County Burial Assistance Programs | Financial aid for indigent cases | County-determined | Contact local social services or see this post |
| Social Security Death Benefit | One-time $255 payment | Eligible survivors | Visit SSA |
| VA Burial Benefits | Veterans’ burial support | Veterans and their families | Visit VA Burial Benefits |
| Catholic Charities Maryland | Emergency financial aid | Varies by program | Visit Catholic Charities Maryland |
| Funeral Consumers Alliance (FCA) | Advocacy for affordable funerals | Open to all | Visit FCA |
