Go-To Organizations That Help With Funeral Expenses
A funeral or memorial service is a meaningful way to honor and say goodbye to a loved one. However, planning and managing finances can be overwhelming while grieving a loss.
During times of financial hardship or unexpected loss of a loved one, it’s crucial to know that resources are available to assist with funeral expenses. This guide provides information on government programs and nonprofit organizations that help with funeral expenses.
How Much Do Funerals Cost?
Most people don’t think about the cost of funeral services before they are in the unfortunate situation of having to say goodbye to a loved one.
According to the National Funeral Directors Association, the median cost of a funeral with a viewing and burial in 2021 was approximately $7,848. These figures don’t include other expenses we often associate with funerals, such as hospital bills, the headstone, obituary pamphlets, flowers, and refreshments.
Burial services without a funeral home may cost less, but you’ll be responsible for every aspect of funeral planning on your own.
Charities that Help with Funeral Costs
If funeral costs have become too large to manage, there are nonprofit organizations that help with funeral assistance. From churches to 501(c)(3) charities, these organizations can reduce burial costs with discounts on the burial and even waive certain burial expenses altogether.
Final Farewell
When families are unable to afford funerals for their children, Final Farewell intervenes. This nonprofit offers emergency funeral assistance and advice to grieving families so they can say farewell with dignity.
Children’s Burial Assistance
Children’s Burial Assistance was created by a Georgia couple who knew how painful it could be to deal with the funeral costs of a child. The organization’s assistance program helps families cover donated burial plots, vaults, cremation services, and grave fees.
Catholic Charities
Another option you may not know: Catholic Charities — an agency that also provides funeral financial assistance to low-income families through their Human Services programs. These services differ by location, so it’s best to check with your local branch.
Local churches and funeral homes
Many local churches and funeral homes collaborate with families to offer discounted services. Some may be able to establish a flexible payment plan or perhaps offer low-cost funeral options.
Government Programs and Assistance
Monthly Survivor Benefits
As a surviving spouse or dependent, you may qualify for monthly survivor benefits through the Social Security Administration. Check the SSA website for eligibility requirements for Social Security benefits and documentation.
Burial Allowances for Veterans
The Veterans Administration provides burial benefits to surviving family members of eligible veterans. These Veterans Affairs grants, which do not have to be paid back, range from $300 to $2,000 and may include burial at a national cemetery.
Social Services and Death Benefit
State and local Social Services departments can sometimes provide a death benefit that may help cover funeral expenses. That could include money for transportation, mortuary services, cremation services, or burial assistance.
Medicaid Funeral Benefits
Certain states allow funeral costs to be covered in part by Medicaid, often for low-income individuals. These Medicaid programs can assist with a portion of the funeral or burial costs, depending on eligibility and availability.
FEMA Funeral Assistance
FEMA can also provide reimbursement for funeral costs in the case of a disaster-related death. This covers urns or caskets, a burial plot, transportation, and even the death certificate.
Life Insurance and Funeral Planning
If the deceased owned life insurance, the payout can go towards funeral expenses. That being said, the benefits of life insurance aren’t always instant, which is why many families still turn to an organization or funeral fundraiser for help. Consider funeral pre-planning with a funeral home or charitable fund to ease the burden on family members in the future.
How Crowdfunding Helps with Funeral Costs
A funeral fundraiser can be both a financial lifeline and a site for people to leave condolences. By using an online platform like GoFundMe to crowdfund, you can see friends, family members, and your local community give in real time.
Setting up a memorial fund online also eliminates the delays that can accompany applying for grants or nonprofit aid. And it gives you the space to spend more time honoring your loved one and less on figuring out logistics.
How to Have a Successful Funeral Fundraiser
If you’re pressed for time and need emergency funeral funds, we have some tips to keep in mind:
Designate a Fundraiser Manager
If you need space to grieve, consider asking a trusted friend or family member to handle your fundraiser instead. They’re able to reach out to contacts, thank them, and can share your fundraiser on TikTok, Instagram, and Nextdoor, the neighborhood app.
Celebrate Your Loved One’s Life Through the Fundraiser
When writing your fundraiser story, include several photos of your loved one and share a few cherished memories. It will help connect others to your cause and encourage donations for funeral expenses.
Use Your Fundraiser as a Communication Hub
Keeping everyone updated on funeral or memorial service times and related events for your fundraiser is simple. Just post the updates and direct your network to your fundraiser for the latest information. They can also choose to contribute to your funeral fundraiser while there.
Look for Fundraising Tips
Get the most out of your funeral or memorial fundraiser with GoFundMe’s tips. Start by reading our funeral savings guide and exploring other related topics on our blog.
Find Funeral Help When You Need It Most
Whether you’re seeking help from a nonprofit, applying for burial benefits, or using crowdfunding to get support, know that you’re not alone. There are resources to help you navigate this process and save money where possible.
From government programs to community foundations and charities, you have options. Take the first step toward financial relief and lasting legacy by starting a funeral fundraiser or contacting an organization today.