COVID-19 Funeral Assistance
Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, FEMA will provide financial assistance for COVID-19 related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020.
To be eligible for funeral assistance, you must meet the following conditions:
- The death must have occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories and the District of Columbia
- The death certificate must indicate the death was attributed to COVID-19
- The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or a qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after January 20, 2020
- There is no requirement for the deceased person to have been a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien.
The documentation you will need:
- An official death certificate, which attributes the death directly or indirectly to COVID-19 and shows that the death occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia
- Funeral expenses documents (receipts, funeral home contract, etc.) that includes the applicant’s name, the deceased person’s name, the amount of funeral expenses, and the dates the funeral expenses happened
- Proof of funds received from other sources specifically for use toward the funeral cost. This would include any benefits received from burial or funeral insurance, financial assistance received from voluntary agencies, government agencies, or other sources. FEMA will not duplicate benefits already received.
How will I receive funds?
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.
FEMA will begin accepting applications for Funeral Assistance on Monday, April 12, 2021.
To apply contact COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Number: 844-684-6333 or 800-462-7585