Programs that Help Pay For a Funeral

Types of Funeral Assistance Programs

• Government Aid: Some states and local governments offer simple cremation for low-income families who have no resources. Veterans get more assistance here.

• Non-Profit Organizations: Funeral Consumers Alliance groups nationwide provide resources to reduce costs and find money but don’t offer direct financial help.

• Religious or Community Groups: Churches and community centers may have funds or programs to assist members. They usually help with only part of the costs.

• Social Security Death Benefit: A one-time payment of $255 for surviving dependents. Now there is a Utah program for dependents under age 18 that offer more.

  
  

Knowing what’s out there is the first step to getting help.

Funeral home entrance with floral arrangements

How to Find Funeral Assistance Programs Near You

Finding the right program can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But it doesn’t have to be that hard. Here’s a simple plan to get you started:

1. Contact Non-Profits: Organizations like the Funeral Consumers Alliance not only guide you through general options but even specifics, like in this nationwide survey of programs.

2. Look for Veteran Benefits: Honorably discharged veterans get FREE burial at National and State Veterans' Cemeteries. Free burial often includes a grave plot, vault, opening and closing, marker, and setting fee. Spouses of veterans can get burial for under about $850 plus the cost of a vault. Check out Utah's Veteran Cemetery & Memorial Park or call 801-254-9036 for more info.

3. Check with Local Government Offices: Your county social services may have info on available aid, like crime victims reparations funds or indigent disposition.

4. Visit State Websites: Some states list funeral assistance programs online. For Utah, families can call 211 or go to 211utah.org to find a program that fits their needs.

5. Ask Funeral Homes: Some funeral homes know about local programs and can help you apply.

   
   

Tips for Applying

• Gather important documents like death certificates, proof of income, and identification (DD214 if a veteran).

• Be honest about your financial situation. Sometimes a GoFundMe or GiveSendGo can disqualify you so check before starting one.

• Apply as soon as you know you qualify. Many funeral homes won't perform services until you pay.

• Don’t hesitate to ask for help filling out forms.

  
  

Remember, you’re not alone. Many families have walked this path and found support.

Cemetery with headstones and floral tributes

Practical Tips for Saving on Funeral Costs

Here’s the deal: funerals don't have to be expensive. But if someone in the family feels an emotional need to buy the whole shebang, costs can add up quickly. Between the casket, service fees, transportation, and cremation alone, expenses can skyrocket, add to that a whole body burial and expenses can be out of this world. Here are some smart ways to keep costs down without sacrificing dignity:

• Consider Direct Cremation (save $8K) or Burial (save $5K): Direct body disposition simply switches the order of a dignified final farewell. This means burial or cremation comes first, and the gathering to hold a service is held after. Instead of a body-centric service, a photo of your loved one can be the focal point amongst flowers.

• Shop Around: Funeral home prices vary. Don’t be afraid to compare. Compare prices in Utah to find the best deal and what the add-ons come to comparison shopping.

• DIY Memorials: Hosting the service at home or in a community space saves the $400 a funeral home charges to be present.

• Use Prepaid Plans: If you need to spend down your assets to qualify for Medicare, prepaying for a funeral or cremation makes sense.

• Buy Online: Instead of buying an overpriced casket from a mortuary, consider a locally made one. You can also find urns on Etsy or Amazon or memorial stones from online sources (just make sure the cemetery accepts your choice in writing before you buy).

  
  

Combining these tips with available assistance, you can create a meaningful farewell that fits your budget. If you want to dive deeper into your funeral shopping options, see this guide. For those looking for funeral payment assistance, these resources can be a lifesaver.

Taking the Next Step with Confidence

Planning a funeral on a tight budget is never easy, but it’s possible. With the right information, you can find ways to ease the financial load. Remember, the goal is to honor your loved one in a way that doesn't break the bank.

Take a deep breath. Start by exploring the UtahFunerals.org financial aid page, gather your documents, and reach out for help. You’re not alone, and there are people who care.

You can give your loved one a meaningful, affordable farewell, and you deserve peace of mind. Let’s make that happen together.