Government support for funeral costs
Arranging a loved ones funeral is difficult enough without having to worry about the cost. If you're struggling to pay for the cost of a funeral, you may be eligible for help from the government.
There are a number of options available for you to consider, which may give you that helping hand you need.
Take a look below at the different options available:
- Funeral Payments from the Social Fund
- Bereavement Allowance (previously Widow's Pension)
- Bereavement Payment
- Budgeting Loans
- Council Funeral – also known as ‘Paupers’ Funeral
You may be able to apply for a Social Fund Funeral Payment to help with funeral costs and we have information on who may be eligible and how to make a claim. Payment can only be authorised by the Department of Work and Pensions who can be contacted at www.dwp.gov.uk.
A Funeral Payment claim form (SF200) may be obtained from a Jobcentre Plus office or by calling the DWP Bereavement Service helpline (available Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm):
Telephone: 0345 606 0265
Welsh language: 0345 606 0275
Textphone: 0345 606 0285
Welsh language Textphone: 0345 606 0295
The claim form – which comes with notes and details of where to send it – can also be downloaded here.
Please remember that you are personally liable for any amount in excess of the agreed payment by the Department of Social Security (DWP), or indeed the whole invoice amount if a payment is not received.
If you do not qualify for a payment we may still be able to advise you on other forms of assistance.