Can Pensioners Get Help with Funeral Costs? Grants & Support Explained

Find out if pensioners can get help with funeral costs. Learn about government grants, bereavement payments, charity support, and public health funerals.

Funeral costs can be expensive, and for pensioners on a low income or receiving benefits, paying for a loved one’s funeral—or their own arrangements—can be a financial burden. The good news is that there are government grants, local authority assistance, and charity support available to help with funeral expenses.

This guide explains the eligibility criteria, how to apply, and alternative options for pensioners who need help covering funeral costs.

What Help is Available for Pensioners with Funeral Costs?

There are several forms of financial assistance available for pensioners who struggle to afford funeral expenses:

  1. The Funeral Expenses Payment (FEP) (England, Wales, and Northern Ireland)

  2. The Funeral Support Payment (Scotland)

  3. Public Health Funerals (Council-Funded Funerals)

  4. Bereavement Support Payment

  5. Charity and Voluntary Support

  6. Budgeting Loans and Credit Union Assistance

Each of these options has different eligibility criteria, so it is important to check which one applies to your situation.

1. Funeral Expenses Payment (England, Wales, and Northern Ireland)

The Funeral Expenses Payment (FEP) is a government grant designed to help people on low incomes with funeral costs. This payment does not usually cover the full cost of the funeral, but it contributes towards essential expenses.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify, you must:

  • Be receiving certain benefits or tax credits, such as:

    • Pension Credit

    • Universal Credit

    • Income Support

    • Housing Benefit

    • Jobseeker’s Allowance (income-based)

    • Employment and Support Allowance (income-based)

  • Be responsible for arranging the funeral.

  • Be a close relative, partner, or friend of the deceased.

  • Show that no one else is able or willing to cover the costs.

What Does It Cover?

The Funeral Expenses Payment can cover:

  • Up to £1,000 towards funeral costs (if the deceased had no funeral plan).

  • Burial or cremation fees, including doctor’s certificates.

  • Travel costs for attending or arranging the funeral.

  • Death certificates and related legal expenses.

How to Apply

  • Apply online via Gov.uk or call 0800 731 0469 (Pension Service helpline).

  • You must apply within 6 months of the funeral date.

  • Payments are made directly to the funeral provider or as a reimbursement if you have already paid.

2. Funeral Support Payment (Scotland)

For pensioners living in Scotland, the Funeral Support Payment (FSP) replaces the Funeral Expenses Payment. It provides similar support but often covers higher costs.

Who Can Apply?

You may be eligible if:

  • You receive benefits such as Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or Income Support.

  • You are responsible for paying for the funeral.

  • The deceased lived in Scotland.

What Does It Cover?

  • Up to £2,280 for burial or cremation.

  • Funeral director fees.

  • Travel costs for arranging the funeral.

  • Medical certificate fees.

How to Apply

  • Apply via mygov.scot or call 0800 182 2222.

  • You must apply within 6 months of the funeral.

3. Public Health Funerals (Council-Funded Funerals)

If a deceased person has no family or friends able to pay for their funeral, the local council may arrange a Public Health Funeral (also known as a pauper’s funeral).

How It Works

  • The council covers the cost of a basic funeral.

  • The funeral usually includes a simple burial or cremation, but no service or flowers.

  • Family members can attend, but they cannot choose funeral arrangements.

A Public Health Funeral is a last-resort option if there are no funds or relatives willing to pay. If the deceased had money in their estate, the council can recover costs from it.

To apply, contact your local council’s environmental health department.

4. Bereavement Support Payment

If a pensioner’s spouse or civil partner has passed away, they may be eligible for a Bereavement Support Payment.

Who Can Apply?

  • You must have been married or in a civil partnership with the deceased.

  • The deceased must have paid National Insurance contributions.

  • You must be under State Pension age at the time of your partner’s death.

How Much is Paid?

  • Lump sum of £2,500 (£3,500 if receiving child benefits).

  • Monthly payments of £100–£350 for 18 months.

This payment can help cover funeral costs and short-term financial difficulties.

Apply via Gov.uk or call 0800 731 0469.

5. Charity and Voluntary Support

Several charities offer funeral grants or hardship funds to pensioners struggling with funeral costs:

  • The British Legion – Helps ex-service members with funeral costs.

  • SSAFA – Provides financial support for military families.

  • Turn2Us – Offers grants to those on low incomes.

  • Local Churches & Community Groups – Some organisations provide small grants.

Check with charities specific to your profession, community, or faith group for additional help.

6. Budgeting Loans & Credit Union Support

If you are a pensioner on low income but do not qualify for funeral grants, you may be able to apply for:

  • Budgeting Loans (England, Wales, and Northern Ireland) – Interest-free loans for funeral costs, repayable through pension deductions.

  • Credit Union Loans – Some credit unions offer low-interest funeral loans for pensioners.

Apply via Gov.uk or your local credit union.

What If There’s No Money to Pay for a Funeral?

If no one can pay for a funeral, and the deceased has no savings or family to contribute, the local council or hospital will arrange a Public Health Funeral. This is a basic, no-service funeral that ensures a respectful burial or cremation.

Final Thoughts

Pensioners struggling to pay for funeral costs can access government support, local authority help, and charity grants. The Funeral Expenses Payment (England, Wales, NI) and Funeral Support Payment (Scotland) provide financial aid for those on low incomes or benefits.

If you are worried about funeral costs for yourself or a loved one, it is worth exploring pre-paid funeral plans, budgeting loans, and community support to ease financial pressure.

For urgent support, contact The Pensions Service (0800 731 0469) or The Pensions Regulator for guidance.