Funerals in the U.S. can be expensive, often ranging from $7,000 to $12,000 depending on the services chosen. For many families, this financial burden can be overwhelming. However, there are several resources and programs that can help offset the cost of funeral and burial expenses. Below is a guide to the types of assistance available, including government benefits, charitable organizations, and other resources that may help cover funeral expenses.
1. Social Security Death Benefit
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a one-time payment of $255 to the surviving spouse or minor children of someone who was receiving Social Security benefits at the time of their death.
- Eligibility: Surviving spouse or dependent children of the deceased.
- Amount: $255
- How to Apply: Contact the Social Security Administration directly. Visit the SSA website for more information and to apply.
2. Veterans Benefits
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides financial assistance for the burial and funeral expenses of eligible veterans. The amount depends on whether the death was service-related.
- Eligibility: Honorably discharged veterans, their spouses, and dependents.
- Amounts:
- Service-related deaths: Up to $2,000 for burial expenses.
- Non-service-related deaths: Up to $1,000, depending on circumstances.
- Plot or Interment Allowance: Up to $828 for burial outside of a VA cemetery.
- How to Apply: You can apply for VA funeral benefits through the VA’s website. Visit the VA website to learn more.
3. State and Local Assistance Programs
Many states and local governments offer indigent burial programs for low-income individuals or families who cannot afford funeral costs. These programs vary by location and typically provide assistance between $500 and $3,000.
- Eligibility: Generally, low-income families or cases where no funds are available for burial.
- Amounts: Typically $500 to $3,000, depending on the state and county.
- How to Apply: Contact your local county or state human services department. For instance, New York City provides up to $1,700 if the total funeral cost does not exceed $3,400. Visit NYC’s Human Resources Administration for details.
4. FEMA Funeral Assistance (COVID-19 Related)
If a loved one passed away due to COVID-19 after January 20, 2020, FEMA offers up to $9,000 in funeral assistance. Families who have lost more than one person due to COVID-19 can receive up to $35,500 total.
- Eligibility: Individuals who incurred funeral expenses for a loved one who died due to COVID-19.
- Amount: Up to $9,000 per funeral.
- How to Apply: Applications can be submitted online or by phone. Learn more and apply through FEMA’s COVID-19 Funeral Assistance program.
5. Charitable Organizations and Religious Groups
There are various nonprofits and religious organizations that offer assistance with funeral expenses, particularly for families with limited financial resources.
- Examples:
- The TEARS Foundation: Provides up to $500 to $1,000 to cover the cost of funerals for infants and young children. Visit their website for more information.
- Final Farewell: Helps with funeral expenses for children and provides grants of up to $1,000. Learn more on their website.
- Eligibility: Based on need and specific circumstances, such as infant loss or financial hardship.
6. Crowdfunding Platforms
Crowdfunding has become an increasingly popular way to raise funds for funeral expenses. Platforms like GoFundMe allow friends, family, and the community to donate and share the fundraising campaign.
- Amount: No set limit; families often raise anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 or more.
- How to Apply: Anyone can create a fundraiser by signing up on crowdfunding platforms such as GoFundMe or Fundly.
7. Funeral Homes and Payment Plans
Many funeral homes offer payment plans or financing options to help families spread out the cost over time. Some may also offer sliding-scale fees for those in financial need.
- Amount: Varies depending on the funeral home and services provided.
- Eligibility: Available to anyone arranging a funeral.
- How to Apply: Discuss payment options with the funeral home when making arrangements.
8. Life Insurance and Prepaid Funeral Plans
If the deceased had a life insurance policy, the payout can typically be used to cover funeral expenses. Additionally, many individuals purchase prepaid funeral plans, ensuring the funeral is fully or partially covered at the time of their death.
- Amount: Payouts vary depending on the life insurance policy, typically ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 or more.
- Prepaid Funeral Plans: Cover the cost of pre-arranged services.
- How to Apply: Contact the life insurance provider to file a claim, or present the prepaid plan to the funeral home.
9. Crime Victims Compensation Programs
Most states offer compensation to help cover funeral expenses if a person was the victim of a violent crime. These programs typically cover $3,000 to $7,500 in funeral costs.
- Eligibility: Families of homicide victims in most states.
- Amount: Between $3,000 to $7,500, depending on the state.
- How to Apply: Check with your state’s crime victim compensation program. For example, California provides up to $7,500. Visit California’s Victim Compensation Board for more information.
