For almost 1 in 8 families, finding the money to pay for a loved one’s funeral caused them notable financial problems.

It’s no wonder: with the average cost of a funeral at £4,417, it can be difficult to know where to get this money from. But this can change: at The Farewell Guide, we believe in providing people with the tools they need to help with funeral costs.  

Whether this is government help or charities that help with funeral costs, there are a range of different ways to receive help paying for a funeral - making sure the day is about celebrating your loved one, and not about the anxieties of expenses.

If you are looking for help in arranging a funeral, you can compare quotes completely free of charge using our free funeral planner tool here. 
 

Facing the financial burden of a funeral can be overwhelming, but there are several avenues in the UK to seek assistance. Here's an updated overview of available support:

1. Government Assistance

Funeral Expenses Payment

The UK government offers the Funeral Expenses Payment to help cover funeral costs for those on certain benefits. This payment can assist with burial or cremation fees, transportation, and necessary documentation. Additionally, it provides up to £1,000 for other funeral expenses, such as funeral directors' fees, flowers, or a coffin. It's important to note that this payment may not cover the full cost of the funeral, so recipients might need to cover the remaining expenses themselves.

Eligibility Criteria:

You may qualify if you receive any of the following benefits:

• 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
• Universal Credit

For comprehensive details and application procedures, visit the official government page. (gov.uk)

Children’s Funeral Fund

This fund assists with funeral costs for a child under 18 at the time of death or stillborn after the 24th week of pregnancy, provided the funeral takes place in England. It covers burial or cremation fees, the cost of a doctor's certificate, and up to £300 for a coffin, shroud, or casket. Notably, this fund is not means-tested, so it's unaffected by your income or savings. 

Public Health Funerals

If there are no relatives or friends to arrange and pay for the funeral, and no funds available in the deceased's estate, the local authority is obligated to organize and fund a basic funeral, typically a cremation.
 

2. Charitable Assistance

Several charities offer support to families struggling with funeral costs:

The Child Funeral Charity

Provides financial assistance and practical support to families arranging a funeral for a child aged 16 or under. A referral from a professional, such as a funeral director or healthcare worker, is required.
More Information: childfuneralcharity.org.uk

The Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity (SANDS)

Available for families who have experienced the loss of a baby through stillbirth or neonatal death. It provides financial help for funeral expenses, including costs for both burial and cremation. It also offers emotional support for grieving parents.
More Information: sands.org.uk

Down to Earth by Quaker Social Action

Offers practical support and guidance to individuals facing financial difficulties in arranging a funeral, helping them plan affordable and meaningful services.
More Information: quakersocialaction.org.uk

The British Humanist Association (BHA)

While not directly providing financial aid for funeral costs, the BHA offers practical assistance and guidance on arranging affordable humanist ceremonies.
More Information: humanism.org.uk

The Royal British Legion

Provides financial help to cover funeral costs for members or ex-members of the armed forces and their families.
More Information: britishlegion.org.uk

The Funeral Support Scheme (Scotland)

Available to people on low income or benefits living in Scotland. Provides financial assistance towards funeral costs, including burial or cremation fees, funeral director's services, and transportation.
More Information: gov.scot
 

3. Bereavement Support Payment

This government benefit provides a one-off lump sum followed by monthly payments to the spouse or civil partner of the deceased. While not specifically designated for funeral costs, it can help alleviate financial pressures during the bereavement period.
More Information: gov.uk

4. Additional Resources

For further guidance on reducing funeral costs and exploring available financial support, consider consulting organizations like Quaker Social Action's Down to Earth project, which offers practical advice and assistance.
More Information: quakersocialaction.org.uk
 

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