COVID-19 Funeral Assistance
Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, FEMA will provide financial assistance for COVID-19-related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020.
FEMA will begin accepting applications for Funeral Assistance on Monday, April 12, 2021 through the dedicated call center number below.
To be eligible for funeral assistance, you must meet these conditions:
- The death must have occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia.
- The death certificate must indicate the death was attributed to COVID-19.
- The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after January 20, 2020.
- There is no requirement for the deceased person to have been a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien.
How to Apply
On April 12, FEMA will begin accepting applications.
COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Line Number
Applications begin on April 12, 2021
844-684-6333 | TTY: 800-462-7585
Hours of Operation:
Monday – Friday
8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Central Time
If you had COVID-19 funeral expenses, we encourage you to keep and gather documentation. Types of information should include:
- An official death certificatethat attributes the death directly or indirectly to COVID-19 and shows that the death occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia.
- Funeral expenses documents(receipts, funeral home contract, etc.) that includes the applicant’s name, the deceased person’s name, the amount of funeral expenses, and the dates the funeral expenses happened.
- Proof of funds received from other sourcesspecifically for use toward funeral costs.We are not able to duplicatebenefits received fromburial or funeral insurance, financialassistancereceived fromvoluntaryagencies, government agencies, or other sources.
If you are eligible for funeral assistance you will receive a check by mail, or funds by direct deposit, depending on which option you choose when you apply for assistance.
For the latest information please visit
https://www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/economic/funeral-assistance
From the moment we contacted Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Services, we were met with compassion, professionalism, and a level of care that brought us tremendous peace during a difficult time. Every detail was handled with grace and dignity, and their team ensured our loved one was honored in the most respectful way possible. Our pastor, who has officiated many services over the years, shared that this was the most kind, professional, and organized service he had ever been a part of—and we couldn't agree more. From the quiet support behind the scenes to the seamless coordination of every aspect of the ceremony, their attention to detail was unmatched. We are deeply grateful to the entire staff at Wheeler and Woodlief. They made a painful experience easier with their warmth, guidance, and dedication. Thank you for helping us celebrate a life well-lived with such honor and love.