Organisations that help with funeral expenses in Canada
A funeral service or memorial is a special way to honour your loved one and say goodbye. But planning a funeral and dealing with finances can feel like an impossible task while grieving a loss.
Whether money has been tight for a while, or a loved one passed away unexpectedly, it’s important to remember that there are places to turn for help during this difficult time. This guide lists information on government programmes and organisations that help with funeral expenses.
How much do funerals cost?
The cost of funeral services is something most people don’t think about until they are in the unfortunate situation of having to say goodbye to a loved one.
According to Haven Casket, the average funeral cost in 2026 in Canada is around $7,793. This amount doesn’t include many of the other items we have come to associate with funerals, such as refreshments, obituary pamphlets, and flowers.
Funerals can be less expensive if you do not use a funeral home, but the downside to opting out of their services is having to navigate the process alone. Keep in mind that costs can also vary significantly by province.
Charities that help with funeral costs
If funeral costs for Canadian residents have become too large to manage, there are several nonprofits that can ease that financial burden. From churches to registered charities that help with funeral costs, these organisations can offer discounts and even waive certain expenses altogether.
Last Post Fund
Through the Royal Canadian Legion, the Last Post Fund facilitates the Veterans Affairs Canada Funeral and Burial Program. This programme provides funeral, burial, and grave marking benefits for eligible Canadian and Allied Veterans.
Local churches and funeral homes
There are funeral homes around the country that offer heavily discounted services to members of the community. Depending on the specific circumstances, many funeral homes will work with families to set up a flexible payment plan or may even offer some services free of charge.
Local religious organisations are another forgotten source of funding for those trying to deal with high funeral costs in Canada. If you’re an active member of your place of worship, they may know how to get help with funeral costs or help plan the service.
Childhood Cancer Canada Benevolent Fund
Childhood Cancer Canada’s Compassionate Care Benevolent Support provides financial assistance for funeral arrangements and memorial services to eligible families who have recently lost a child to cancer. Bereaved families in Canada may qualify for support, with applications completed on their behalf by a social worker.
ICNA Relief Canada Funeral Support Programme
ICNA Relief Canada offers a one-time Funeral (Janaza) Support Fund to help eligible families who cannot afford the necessary costs of burying a loved one. The programme also connects Muslim families with appropriate Islamic funeral services. Those needing assistance can apply through ICNA Relief Canada’s online Funeral Support Application. The service is currently available in the Greater Toronto Area.
Provincial help with funeral costs
The Canadian government offers a few ways for families to find financial relief after losing a loved one. We’ve outlined the most common programmes that help with funeral expenses.
CPP survivor benefits
Depending on your relationship to the person who passed away and their lifetime earnings, you may be able to receive monthly payments from the Canada Pension Plan.
Burial allowances for veterans
Veterans Affairs Canada provides financial assistance to the family members of fallen service members and veterans.
Canada Pension Plan one-time payment
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) death benefit is a one-time, lump-sum payment to the estate on behalf of a deceased CPP contributor.
Provincial social assistance programmes
Most Canadian provinces offer some form of funeral or burial assistance through provincial social assistance programmes for residents who cannot afford basic funeral costs. Examples include Ontario Works, Quebec’s Special Benefit for Funeral Expenses, worth up to $2,500, Alberta’s funeral benefits, the BC Employment and Assistance funeral supplement, and funeral assistance available through Social Supports NB. Eligibility can depend on factors such as the deceased’s estate, available resources, and family circumstances. Benefit amounts, covered expenses, and application processes vary by province and can change, so confirm current requirements on the relevant provincial government website before applying.
How crowdfunding can help with funeral expenses
In addition to charities that help with funeral costs, starting a fundraiser can bridge any financial gaps. It can serve as a central place for others to offer condolences and reflect on your loved one’s life through photos and written memories.
A funeral fundraiser also provides direction to friends and family members who want to help but feel embarrassed about reaching out or aren’t sure how to help. A fundraiser connects you and your social network, allowing your community to easily support you. If you aren’t quite sure how to ask for donations for funeral expenses, you can list your needs in your fundraiser story and simply post the link on social media.
GoFundMe
Crowdfunding for funeral and memorial costs allows you to focus on honouring your loved one’s memory instead of worrying about finances.
Thousands of people create fundraisers for funeral costs on GoFundMe every day. When you’re ready to start a memorial fundraiser, we are here to help. Our fundraising platform lets you put your donations toward funeral expenses as they come in. A fundraiser can be started in minutes with no eligibility requirements.
How to have a successful funeral fundraiser
If you’re managing a fundraiser during a difficult time, we have some tips to help you navigate the process.
Designate a fundraiser manager
It might be best to ask a close friend or family member to take the lead on running your fundraiser so you can have time to grieve. This person can send thank-you notes and help spread the word about your cause.
Celebrate your loved one’s life through the fundraiser
When writing your fundraiser story, be sure to post lots of photos of your loved one and write about cherished memories with them. This will really connect others to your fundraiser and encourage donations.
Use your fundraiser as a communication hub
You can easily post updates on your fundraiser to keep everyone in the loop on funeral or memorial service times and other related events. After posting an update, share with your network so they’ll also see the option to contribute to your fundraiser.
Look for fundraising tips
GoFundMe also offers funeral and memorial fundraising tips so you can make the most of your fundraiser. We recommend reading our funeral savings guide to start and exploring other related topics on our blog.
Find assistance for funeral expenses
During difficult times, remember that your network of friends and family wants to help, and GoFundMe can allow them to lend a hand. Spend more time celebrating your loved one’s life and worry less about the cost of final arrangements. Take the first step and sign up to create a fundraiser for your loved one today.