Help Towards Funeral Costs

You may be able to get help from the Department of Work and Pensions to help with funeral costs if you are on a low income, receiving certain benefits or tax credits. The amount you will be eligible for will be based on your individual circumstances.

The Funeral Payment can help pay towards the following:

• Burial fees and exclusive rights to burial in a particular plot
• Cremation fees including the costs of the doctor’s certificate
• Up to £700 towards the funeral director’s fees
• The cost of moving the body within the UK, if it’s being moved more than 50 miles

If the person who died had a pre-paid funeral plan, you can get a maximum of £120 to help pay for items not covered by their plan.

To apply for a payment towards the funeral you must be the partner, parent, children or close relative/friend of the deceased.

You must apply within six months of the funeral. You can make a claim before the funeral if you have got an invoice or signed contract from the funeral director. You can apply by filling in the SF200 form online or over the phone.

For more information, please visit the Department of Works and Pensions website https://www.gov.uk/funeral-payments/overview