Are you wondering how much financial help you can get from the government to cover funeral costs in the UK? The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offers the Funeral Expenses Payment, often called the funeral grant, to assist people struggling with funeral bills.
While it does not cover everything, it helps ease the burden during a difficult time. Knowing how it works, who qualifies, and how to apply is essential so families can focus on saying goodbye rather than worrying about costs.
What is a Funeral Grant?
A funeral grant is a one-time payment provided by the DWP to help cover certain essential costs when arranging a funeral. Officially called the Funeral Expenses Payment, this grant is designed for individuals who are responsible for funeral arrangements and who are on qualifying low-income benefits.
The payment can assist with specific costs, including burial or cremation fees, transport of the deceased over long distances, funeral director fees, and other necessary expenses such as the coffin or flowers.
Importantly, the funeral grant is not designed to cover the full cost of the funeral, which can average several thousand pounds in the UK. Families are usually responsible for the remaining costs not covered by the payment.
Additionally, the grant is not a loan, you usually do not need to repay it unless the deceased has left money or assets in their estate, in which case some or all of the payment may be reclaimed to cover funeral expenses.
Who Is Entitled to a Government Funeral Grant?
To qualify for a government funeral grant, you must meet certain eligibility rules, which focus on your financial situation, your relationship with the deceased, and where the funeral takes place.
- You or your partner must be receiving qualifying benefits such as Universal Credit, Income Support, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or income-related Jobseeker’s Allowance.
- You must have a close relationship with the deceased, like being their partner, parent, or responsible guardian.
- The funeral must take place in the UK, European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland.
Even if you are waiting on a decision regarding your benefits, you can still apply for the funeral grant.
| Eligibility Factor | Requirement |
| Benefits | Receiving Universal Credit, Income Support, or similar |
| Relationship to deceased | Partner, parent, or responsible person |
| Funeral location | UK, EEA, or Switzerland |
In some cases, close friends or relatives may also apply, particularly if there are no surviving immediate family members or if the next of kin is unable to apply due to circumstances such as living abroad or being incarcerated
Can You Apply If Not on Benefits?
While the DWP funeral grant is mainly designed for those on certain qualifying benefits, there are a few situations where people not currently on benefits may still find help.
If you are not receiving benefits but are struggling with the financial burden of a funeral, you may qualify for help from local councils, charities, or even a public health funeral (sometimes called a pauper’s funeral).
In addition, if you are a close friend or family member and the immediate next of kin cannot claim due to being abroad, incapacitated, or otherwise unavailable, you might still be able to apply.
It is always advisable to speak to an adviser or local support service because they can help you explore additional funding sources or explain eligibility details that may apply to your situation.
How Much is a Funeral Grant from DWP?
The amount you can receive from the DWP funeral grant varies depending on your personal circumstances, the costs of the funeral, and whether the deceased left any funds or assets.
Generally, the grant covers essential funeral costs such as burial or cremation fees, and provides up to £1,000 for other related expenses, including the funeral director’s fees, coffin, or flowers.
If the deceased had a prepaid funeral plan, the grant will only cover up to £120 for items not included in that plan. The DWP will also take into account any available funds, such as insurance payouts or money from the deceased’s estate, before calculating the final payment.
It’s important to remember that the grant is not guaranteed to cover all costs, and families should be prepared to pay the remaining balance. That’s why understanding the exact amounts and limitations is essential when planning a funeral.
What Funeral Costs Are Covered by the DWP Grant?
The DWP funeral grant helps cover essential expenses related to arranging a funeral, providing significant but limited financial support.
- Burial fees, including the purchase of a particular plot and associated fees
- Cremation fees, including the cost of the doctor’s certificate required for cremation
- Transport costs if the body needs to be moved over 50 miles within the UK
- Costs of death certificates or other documents required for estate administration
- Up to £1,000 for other expenses, including funeral director’s fees, the coffin, cars, or flowers
| Covered Costs | Details |
| Burial or cremation fees | Including doctor’s certificates for cremation |
| Transportation | Moving body over 50 miles within the UK |
| Death certificates | Documents needed for legal and financial matters |
| Other expenses | Funeral director fees, coffin, flowers, cars |
It’s essential to note that if the deceased had a prepaid funeral plan, the grant will only cover costs that are not included in the plan, up to £120.
How to Claim a DWP Funeral Grant?
To apply for a DWP funeral grant, it is important to follow the correct process and gather all necessary paperwork to avoid delays.
Step 1: Collect essential documents, including the funeral director’s invoice, proof of your relationship to the deceased, your National Insurance number, and evidence of the qualifying benefits you receive.
Step 2: Choose how you want to apply. You can apply by calling the DWP Bereavement Service helpline, where trained advisers will guide you through the application process. Alternatively, you can download and complete the SF200 claim form and submit it by post to the address provided on the form.
Step 3: Submit your claim within six months of the funeral date. If you apply before the funeral, you must have a signed contract or invoice, as estimates will not be accepted.
Remember, if you are receiving Universal Credit, the DWP may only process your funeral payment application after your next benefit payment is assessed.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Funeral Payment from DWP?
The time it takes to receive a funeral payment from the DWP can vary, but most applications are processed within four weeks after submission.
This timeline depends on whether all required documents are provided and whether there are pending decisions on related benefit claims.
If you have already paid for the funeral, the money will be paid directly into your bank or building society account. If you have not yet paid, the payment will be sent directly to the funeral director.
Keep in mind that waiting for the payment can be stressful, especially when facing time-sensitive bills, so it’s best to submit all information accurately and as soon as possible.
What Happens If the DWP Funeral Grant Is Refused?
If your DWP Funeral Grant application is refused, it can be a disheartening experience, especially during an already difficult time. However, there are clear steps you can take to challenge the decision or explore alternative support.
Steps to Take After a Refusal
- Review the refusal letter carefully to understand the specific reasons for the denial.
- Check for missing documents or errors that may have impacted your eligibility.
- Ensure you’re receiving qualifying benefits, as not meeting benefit criteria is a common reason for refusal.
- Request a mandatory reconsideration to have your case reviewed again by the DWP.
- If that fails, submit an appeal to the Social Security and Child Support Tribunal for an independent review.
- Gather additional documents or evidence to strengthen your case during the appeal.
- Seek help from welfare advisors or local charities who can guide you through the process.
Though the process may feel overwhelming, acting quickly and staying organised can improve your chances of a successful outcome.
How Can You Get Help with Funeral Costs If Not on Benefits?
Even if you are not receiving qualifying benefits, there are other avenues you can explore for help with funeral expenses.
- Local councils can arrange public health funerals when no one is available or able to pay.
- Charities and religious organisations sometimes offer grants or donations for those struggling financially.
- Budgeting loans, available to people on certain low-income benefits, can help cover urgent funeral costs.
Additionally, some funeral directors provide more affordable service packages, such as direct cremation or simplified ceremonies, that significantly lower expenses.
You can also explore community fundraising or credit union loans, which offer lower interest rates compared to standard borrowing. Taking time to research these options can make it easier to manage costs without sacrificing the dignity of the service.
What Other Financial Help Is Available for Funeral Costs in the UK?
Beyond the DWP funeral grant, several other types of financial support are available to help families cover funeral costs. Bereavement Support Payment offers a lump sum and ongoing monthly payments to a surviving spouse or civil partner to help them adjust financially after the loss.
Budgeting Loans are available for those on certain income-related benefits, providing interest-free loans to cover urgent costs, including funerals.
Credit unions can also offer affordable loans for those needing immediate help, often with lower interest rates than traditional lenders.
| Type of Support | What It Provides |
| Bereavement Support Payment | Lump sum and monthly aid for surviving spouses or partners |
| Budgeting Loan | Interest-free loan for those on income-based benefits |
| Credit Union Loan | Affordable borrowing for urgent funeral-related expenses |
Exploring these options, either alongside or instead of the funeral grant, can help reduce the financial burden and ensure families are not left overwhelmed during an already challenging time.
Conclusion
Understanding how much a funeral grant from the DWP can cover is essential for families dealing with the loss of a loved one. While the grant may not pay for every funeral expense, it provides meaningful help with key costs, reducing the financial burden on grieving families.
Whether you qualify for the DWP funeral grant or need to explore alternative resources, seeking help early and knowing your rights can make a challenging time less overwhelming.
Being informed helps you focus on what truly matters, honouring the memory of the person you have lost.
FAQs About DWP Funeral Grant
Can a friend or relative apply for a funeral grant on behalf of the family?
Yes, a close friend or relative may apply if immediate family members cannot make the claim.
Do you have to repay the DWP funeral grant if the estate covers costs?
The grant may be recovered from the deceased’s estate, but not from personal possessions or the partner’s home.
How does the bereavement support payment differ from the funeral grant?
The bereavement support payment helps surviving spouses with living costs, while the funeral grant covers funeral expenses.
Are there regional differences in funeral payment processing times?
Processing times are similar across regions, but Scotland uses the separate Funeral Support Payment scheme.
Can you appeal a DWP funeral grant decision?
Yes, you can request a reconsideration or appeal to a tribunal if you disagree with the decision.
What documents are needed when applying for a funeral payment?
You need a funeral invoice, proof of relationship, benefit details, and sometimes the death certificate.
Is there a deadline for submitting a funeral payment claim to the DWP?
Yes, claims must be submitted within six months of the funeral, even if you await a benefit decision.
