Help with funeral costs - Print version

If there are not enough funds to cover the funeral, support may be available through the DWP Funeral Expenses Payment.

Who can apply

• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Pension Credit
• Housing Benefit
• Child Tax Credit
• Universal Credit
• Working Tax Credit (with a disability or severe disability element)

You can still apply if you are waiting for a decision on one of these benefits.

Important information

• The DWP payment does not usually cover the full funeral cost
• There is no guarantee the application will be accepted
• If successful, payment is usually made directly to the funeral director

Other support available

If you are not eligible for DWP support, we may still be able to help by exploring:

• Local charity or hardship support
• Council assistance (in some cases)

Please speak to your funeral director. All information you share will be treated in complete confidence.

What the DWP will cover (for a cremation)

Essential costs (paid in full)

• Cremation fees (crematorium charges)
• Burial plot (if applicable)
• Transport of the deceased:
• Documentation (e.g. death certificate, permits)

Other costs – capped at £1,000

• Funeral director’s fees
• Coffin or casket
• Celebrant or minister
• Flowers, newspaper notice, order of service, etc.

This is a flat amount — not itemised — and will not increase if actual costs are higher.

What the DWP will not cover

• Costs already covered by others or a pre-paid funeral plan
• Embalming or special preparation of the body
• Limousines or upgraded transport
• Wake, venue hire or catering
• Flowers (unless within the £1,000 limit)

Deposit amounts at Coventry Funeral Service

For burial services, please contact us directly for a tailored breakdown.

Timeframes for a DWP funeral payment

• Official target: 13 working days
• In practice: 4 to 6 weeks is more common, depending on the application and processing time.