Need Help Covering COVID-19 Funeral Costs? FEMA May Be Able to Help

If you or someone you know has lost a loved one to COVID-19 and are still burdened with funeral expenses, don’t miss this opportunity to apply for support. FEMA is here to help — and there is still time.

Though the COVID-19 national emergency officially ended on May 11, 2023, FEMA’s COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Program remains open. If you lost a loved one due to COVID-19, you may be eligible for up to $9,000 in funeral expense reimbursement — but time is limited. The deadline to apply is September 30, 2025

Eligibility Requirements

You may qualify for FEMA Funeral Assistance if:

• You are a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified non-citizen
• The death occurred in the U.S., U.S. territories, or D.C.
• The death was attributed to COVID-19
• You are responsible for funeral costs incurred on or after January 20, 2020

What Can Be Covered?

FEMA may reimburse the following funeral-related expenses:

• Funeral services & ceremonies
• Cremation or burial
• Casket or urn
• Burial plot, marker, or headstone
• Clergy or officiant services
• Transportation for up to 2 people to identify the deceased
• Transfer of remains
• Death certificate costs
• Expenses due to local/state laws or ordinances
• Funeral home equipment & staff

How to Apply

You must apply by phone with a FEMA representative. You cannot apply online. The call takes about 20 minutes.

Call FEMA: 844-684-6333
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Eastern Time)
Language: Multilingual services available
TTY users should provide their relay service number to ensure proper follow-up.

What You’ll Need to Apply

• Your Social Security number and date of birth
• The deceased’s Social Security number and date of birth
• The address where the death occurred
• Your current mailing address and phone number
• Details about any burial or funeral insurance
• Records of other funeral assistance received (e.g., CARES Act, state/local aid)
• Bank account info if choosing direct deposit
• Supporting documentation (see below)

Required Documents

After you apply, submit the following:

• A death certificate showing the death occurred in the U.S. and was attributed to COVID-19
  • For deaths between Jan 20 – May 16, 2020: A signed statement from the certifier or medical examiner may be required
• Funeral documentation (contract, invoice, receipts) with:
  • Your name as the responsible party
  • The name of the deceased
  • Itemized costs
  • Proof expenses were incurred on or after Jan. 20, 2020

How to Submit Documents

After receiving your application number, send documents to FEMA via:

• Online Upload: DisasterAssistance.gov
• Fax: 855-261-3452
• Mail:
  P.O. Box 10001
  Hyattsville, MD 20782

What Happens Next?

• It takes about 45 days to process once FEMA has all required documents
• If approved, funds are sent by direct deposit or Treasury check
• You’ll receive a notification letter detailing the award