In early April, FEMA will begin providing financial assistance for funeral expenses incurred after Jan. 20, 2020 for
deaths related to coronavirus (COVID-19) to help ease some of the financial stress and burden caused by the
pandemic. The policy was finalized today, and FEMA is now moving rapidly to implement this funeral assistance
program nationwide.
Eligibility
To be eligible for COVID-19 funeral assistance, the policy states:
- The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses
after Jan. 20, 2020 for a death attributed to COVID-19. (There is no requirement for the deceased person to have been a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien.) The death certificate must indicate the death was attributed to COVID-19. - If multiple individuals contributed toward funeral expenses, they should apply under a single application as
applicant and co-applicant. FEMA will also consider documentation from other individuals not listed as the
applicant and co-applicant who may have incurred funeral expenses as part of the registration for the
deceased individual. - An applicant may apply for multiple deceased individuals.
- The COVID-19-related death must have occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories and the
District of Columbia. - This assistance is limited to a maximum financial amount of $9,000 per funeral and a maximum of $35,500
per application. - Funeral assistance is intended to assist with expenses for funeral services and interment or cremation.
Documentation Needed
In the coming weeks, a dedicated 800 number will be established to help individuals who apply. In the meantime,
potential applicants are encouraged to start gathering the following documentation:
- An official death certificate that attributes the death to COVID-19 and shows that the death occurred in the
U. S. The death certificate must indicate the death “may have been caused by” or “was likely the result of”
COVID-19 or COVID-19 like symptoms. Similar phrases that indicate a high likelihood of COVID-19 are
considered sufficient attribution. - Funeral expense documents (receipts, funeral home contract, etc.) that include the applicant’s name, the
deceased individual’s name, the amount of funeral expenses, and the dates the funeral expenses were
incurred. - Proof of funds received from other sources specifically for use toward funeral costs. Funeral assistance may
not duplicate benefits received from burial or funeral insurance, financial assistance received
from voluntary agencies, federal/state/local/tribal/territorial government programs or agencies, or other
sources.
How Funds Are Paid
If you are eligible for funeral assistance you will receive a check by mail, or funds by direct deposit, depending on which option you choose when you apply for assistance.
Additional Information
More information regarding this assistance can be found at COVID-19 Funeral Assistance | FEMA.gov
