Losing a loved one is an emotionally challenging experience, and the financial burden of arranging a funeral can add additional stress during an already difficult time.
Fortunately, the government offers support to those facing financial constraints through the Funeral Expenses Payment (Funeral Payment) in the UK. This guide provides valuable information on eligibility, the application process, and the assistance available.
What is Funeral Expenses Payment?
When you need to arrange a funeral the cost can be overwhelming. In the UK, for example, the cost can go up to £5,000, a lot of people opt for a direct cremation because of this reason.
However, the government grants help with the financial aspect of the event and can help pay for some of the costs of the following:
- burial fees for a particular plot
- cremation fees, including the cost of the doctor’s certificate
- travel to arrange or go to the funeral
- the cost of moving the body within the UK, if it’s being moved more than 50 miles
- death certificates or other documents
You can also get up to £1,000 for any other funeral expenses, such as funeral director’s fees, flowers or the coffin.
Keep in mind that the help that you will get won’t usually cover the whole amount that you need to pay for arranging a funeral. How much you get depends on your circumstances.
When do you need to apply?
It is crucial to submit your application within six months of the funeral, even if you are awaiting a decision on a qualifying benefit.
Additionally, you have the option to initiate a claim before the funeral if you possess an invoice or a signed contract from the funeral director; however, it must not be based on an estimate.
Where will you receive the money?
If you've covered the funeral expenses upfront, the Funeral Expenses Payment will be deposited into your bank, building society, or credit union account.
But, if you haven't made the payment yet, the funds will be directly transferred to the funeral organizer, such as the funeral director.
Who is eligible for the Funeral Payment?
You can get a Funeral Expenses Payment if all of the following apply:
- you get certain benefits or tax credits
- you meet the rules on your relationship with the deceased
- you’re arranging a funeral in the UK, the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland
You (or your partner) must get one or more of the following:
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- the disability or severe disability element of Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
If you are not a member of the family but you paid and arranged the funeral, you might be able to get a Funeral Expenses Payment if:
- the deceased did not have a partner when they died
- the partner of the deceased or parent of a deceased child cannot claim (for example, they live abroad or are in prison)
How to claim
To initiate your claim, reach out via telephone by contacting the Bereavement Service helpline at: 0800 151 2012.
Additionally, an advisor from the Bereavement Service will assist you not only with your claim but also in exploring any other bereavement benefits you may be eligible for.
Alternatively, you can opt to claim by post. Download and complete the claim form (SF200), then forward it to the specified address on the form.If you need more information about this topic you can access the following link: https://www.gov.uk/funeral-payments.