FEMA Offers Federal Assistance to Help Families Cover Funeral Costs
Up to $9,000 in aid may be available for those who suffered the loss of a loved one from COVID-19.
We are truly sorry for your loss and know that with an unexpected loss it can be especially difficult, as there may not have been a plan in place or funds to cover expenses. Beyond the financial impact, we’ve also seen firsthand the emotional strain placed on families who had to memorialize and grieve a loved one in isolation, without the support of family and friends.
Thankfully, two pieces of legislation were recently passed by Congress that authorizes FEMA to provide up to $9,000 in financial assistance to families that incurred COVID-19-related funeral expenses after January 20, 2020. Funeral assistance is intended to help with funeral expenses related to funeral services and interment or cremation. This funding may also apply to those who have not yet held a service or have been waiting on funding to purchase other funeral- and cremation-related merchandise such as headstones, urns and cremation niches.
If you’re ready to begin the application process or need more information, FEMA has established a dedicated phone number and website to assist you:
COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Line Number
844-684-6333 ● TTY: 800-462-7585
Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. CT
https://www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/economic/funeral-assistance/faq
Contact us if you have additional questions about this funding or would like to talk to one of our knowledgeable advisors about hosting a service or purchasing funeral-related merchandise. We realize the past year has been hard for everyone, but more so for the families who suffered the loss of a loved one. We’re here to help you through this process.
Some of the documents you’ll need to apply include:
6/29/21 Update: FEMA has revised their policy to offer more flexibility for documentation for deaths that occurred before May 16, 2020. Learn more about this policy change.
- Official death certificate that attributes the death to COVID-19 and shows that the death occurred in the United States.
- Funeral expense documentation such as receipts or a funeral home contract that includes the individual’s name, amount spent and the date of the expenses.
- Proof of funds received from other sources specifically used toward funeral costs.