When someone close to you dies, the last thing you want to think about is money. Yet funeral costs in the UK now average well over £4,000, and for many families, finding that kind of money at short notice simply is not possible. If you are worried about how you are going to pay, please know that you are not alone — and that there is more help available than you might think.
This guide brings together every major source of support for people who need help with funeral costs in the UK.
Government Support: Funeral Expenses Payment
The most well-known source of help is the Funeral Expenses Payment, a government scheme that helps people on qualifying benefits cover some or all of their funeral costs. You can apply if you or your partner receive Universal Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or a Support for Mortgage Interest loan.
Check Funeral Prices Near MeThe payment can cover burial or cremation fees, the cost of transporting the body, death certificates, and up to £1,000 towards other funeral expenses such as the funeral director's fees and coffin. You must apply within six months of the funeral. For a detailed walkthrough of eligibility and how to claim, see our guide to getting help with funeral costs from the government.
If you live in Scotland, the equivalent scheme is called Funeral Support Payment and is administered by Social Security Scotland. The process and eligibility criteria are broadly similar, though there are some differences.
Bereavement Support Payment
If your spouse or civil partner has died, you may also be entitled to Bereavement Support Payment. This is a separate benefit from Funeral Expenses Payment and you can claim both. It provides either a lump sum of £2,500 or £3,500, followed by up to 18 monthly payments, depending on whether you have dependent children.
You do not need to be on a low income to claim Bereavement Support Payment — eligibility is based on the deceased's National Insurance contributions.
Charity Grants and Hardship Funds
Several charities offer grants to help with funeral costs, particularly for people who do not qualify for government support or whose payment does not cover the full amount.
- The National Benevolent Fund for the Aged — Provides grants to people over 65 who are struggling financially
- Turn2us — An online tool that helps you search for charitable grants based on your circumstances, including funeral costs
- Royal British Legion — Offers support to serving and former military personnel and their families
- The Civil Service Benevolent Fund — Supports current and former civil servants
- Trade union benevolent funds — Many unions offer death grants or funeral support to members and their families
- Religious organisations — Local churches, mosques, synagogues, gurdwaras, and temples sometimes have hardship funds or collections for members in need
It is worth checking whether the person who died was a member of any professional body, trade union, or benevolent society, as many of these organisations offer death-in-service benefits or funeral grants that families do not always know about.
The Deceased's Estate
Before looking elsewhere, check whether the person who died had any money, savings, or life insurance. Even a modest bank balance can be used to help cover funeral costs. Most banks will release funds from a deceased person's account to pay a funeral director's invoice, even before probate is granted, provided you can show the invoice and death certificate.
If the deceased had a life insurance policy or a death-in-service benefit through their employer, this may also be available to help.
Employer Death-in-Service Benefits
Many employers provide a death-in-service benefit as part of their workplace pension or benefits package. This typically pays a lump sum of two to four times the person's annual salary to their nominated beneficiary. It is always worth contacting the deceased's employer to ask whether this benefit was in place.
Crowdfunding and Community Support
Online fundraising has become an increasingly common way for families to meet funeral costs. Platforms such as GoFundMe and JustGiving allow you to set up a page quickly and share it with friends, family, and the wider community. Many families find that people are genuinely willing to contribute, especially when the death has been sudden or the financial need is clear.
Council and Public Health Funerals
If absolutely no one is able to pay for a funeral, the local council has a legal duty to arrange one. These are sometimes called public health funerals. They are simple and respectful, though the family will have limited input into the arrangements. If you are in this situation, contact your local council's environmental health or bereavement services department for guidance.
Reducing the Overall Cost
Alongside seeking financial help, there are practical steps you can take to reduce the amount you need to find:
- Consider direct cremation — At around £1,000 to £1,500, this is the most affordable funeral option available
- Compare funeral directors — Get at least two or three itemised quotes before committing
- Choose a simpler coffin — A basic coffin is no less dignified than an expensive one
- Hold the wake at home — This can save hundreds compared with hiring a venue
- Skip printed orders of service — A simple handout or digital version costs far less
You Do Not Have to Face This Alone
If you are struggling with funeral costs, reach out. Whether it is the government helpline on 0800 151 2012, a local charity, or simply a trusted friend, there are people who can help you find a way through.