Financial Assistance for Funeral Expenses

Arranging a funeral is hard enough without the worry of how to pay for it. Everyone wants to give their loved one a dignified send-off, and the cost can feel out of reach. The good news is there are several ways to get help. This guide sets out the main options.

Quick answer: Help with funeral costs can come from a government payment (in the UK, the Funeral Expenses Payment for those on certain benefits), a memorial crowdfunding fund through sites like GoFundMe, grants from charities linked to the person's illness or occupation, or, as a last resort, a Public Health Funeral arranged by the local council. Choosing a simpler service such as a direct cremation also reduces the cost significantly.

Government funeral payment

In the UK, the Funeral Expenses Payment can help cover part of a funeral for those receiving certain benefits, credits or allowances. It can go toward burial or cremation fees, documents, transport of the body, and a contribution to other costs such as the funeral director. It usually does not cover the full amount, and how much you receive depends on your circumstances. Check the claim notes for full details.

A memorial fund

A memorial or crowdfunding fund lets friends, family and even kind strangers contribute toward the cost. Sites like GoFundMe and Crowdfunder make this straightforward. It helps to explain clearly what the money is for, share something about your loved one's life, and include photos, so people feel a genuine connection and want to help.

Charities

Some charities help with funeral costs in specific circumstances, often linked to how the person died or the work they did. For example, illness-related charities such as Leukaemia Care may help in some cases, and occupation-based ones like the Care Workers Charity support those in particular professions. Eligibility can also depend on age, location and the type of cost you need help with, so it is worth searching for a charity relevant to your situation.

If you still cannot afford a funeral

If there is not enough money in the estate and no one able to arrange the funeral, a Public Health Funeral can be arranged by the local council or hospital. This is usually a simple cremation; you can attend, but you cannot choose the time or date.

Keeping costs down

Choosing a simpler service makes a real difference. A direct cremation, without a formal ceremony, is the most affordable option, and you can hold your own celebration of life separately. You can also buy the urn or coffin independently rather than through the funeral director. See our guide on cremation and burial costs for a full comparison.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get help paying for a funeral?

Yes. Options include a government payment (in the UK, the Funeral Expenses Payment for those on certain benefits), a memorial crowdfunding fund, grants from relevant charities, and, as a last resort, a council-arranged Public Health Funeral.

What is the Funeral Expenses Payment?

A UK government payment that helps cover part of a funeral for people receiving certain benefits or credits. It can go toward burial or cremation fees, documents, transport and a contribution to other costs, though it rarely covers the full amount.

What happens if no one can pay for the funeral?

If there is no money in the estate and no one to arrange it, the local council or hospital can arrange a Public Health Funeral, usually a simple cremation. You can attend, but cannot choose the date or time.

What is the cheapest type of funeral?

A direct cremation, which has no formal ceremony, is the most affordable option. Families often pair it with a separate celebration of life, and buying the urn or coffin independently can reduce costs further.