How to Pay for a Funeral With No Money: 8 Options
A funeral can cost thousands of dollars and is due within days. If the money is not there, you still have options. Here are eight to look at first.
1. Check for a life insurance policy
Look through papers, email, and bank statements for any life insurance or burial policy, including one through an employer. A claim can often be paid within a few weeks, and some funeral homes will accept an assignment of the benefit.
2. Ask the funeral home about payment plans
Many funeral homes offer payment plans. Ask for their General Price List, choose only what you need, and ask what terms they offer before you sign.
3. Choose direct cremation or a simple burial
Direct cremation skips the viewing and ceremony and is usually the lowest-cost option. A memorial gathering can be held later at home or a place of worship for little or no cost.
4. Use veterans benefits
Eligible veterans can receive a burial in a national cemetery at no charge, a headstone or marker, and in some cases a burial allowance. Contact the VA to check eligibility.
5. Apply for the Social Security death benefit
Social Security pays a one-time $255 payment to an eligible surviving spouse or child. It is small, but it helps.
6. Look for state, county, or local assistance
Some counties and states offer help with burial costs for low-income families, and some charities and religious organizations do too. Call your county social services office to ask. FEMA may help with funeral costs only after a federally declared disaster.
7. Ask family and friends, or crowdfund
Online fundraising pages are widely used for funeral costs. Share the page with family, friends, your church, and your community.
8. Consider donating the body to science
Medical schools and donation programs may cover transportation and cremation at no cost. Requirements vary, and a program may decline a donation, so have a backup plan.
Avoid this problem later
The most dependable way to protect your family is to plan ahead. A small final expense policy pays cash to your beneficiary when it is needed, so nobody has to scramble. Learn how it works in is burial insurance worth it?, or see plans with no waiting period.
Get a quote
Amy Plunkett is an independent insurance agent at Plunkett Insurance Services in Castor, Louisiana. She can compare burial and final expense policies from more than 20 carriers to find the best coverage for your health, including options that pay in full from day one. Contact Amy to see what you qualify for.