Financial support when arranging a funeral

Here at Tester & Jones, we know that organising a funeral is a hugely emotional experience but we also appreciate that many families have additional concerns surrounding the associated costs. While we will always be sympathetic towards individual budgets, there are also some financial support options available to ease the burden.

Funeral Expenses Payment

For those receiving certain qualifying benefits, a Funeral Expenses Payment may be available. This Government scheme can contribute towards the cost of:

• Burial or cremation fees

• Certain travel expenses

• The cost of moving the deceased within the UK in eligible circumstances

• Death certificates and related documentation

• Up to £1,000 towards other funeral expenses, such as funeral director fees, a coffin or flowers.

  
  

Eligibility depends on the applicant's circumstances and benefit entitlement. Families generally need to be responsible for arranging the funeral and must apply within six months of the funeral date.

This payment may not cover the full cost of a funeral but it can provide some support for those who qualify.

Bereavement Support Payment

The Bereavement Support Payment (BSP) is a Government benefit designed to support people whose husband, wife or civil partner has died within the last 21 months. The deceased will have had to have paid National Insurance contributions for at least 25 weeks (if this is not the case, there could be eligibility if they died because of an accident at work or a disease caused by work).

When they died, their partner must have been under the State Pension age and living in the UK (or a country that pays bereavement benefits).

BSP can provide a one-off lump sum, followed by up to 18 regular monthly payments. There are two levels of payment, depending on whether the living partner receives Child Benefit. The BSP is not means tested and all payments are tax free.

Support for children's funerals

The death of a child is devastating but there are measures available to help families avoid unnecessary financial pressure during such a difficult time.

Many crematoria and burial authorities across the UK either waive or are able to reclaim fees associated with children's funerals. In England, the Children's Funeral Fund helps cover burial fees, cremation fees and certain associated costs for a child under 18, or for a baby stillborn after 24 weeks of pregnancy. Families are not normally charged these fees directly, as providers can claim reimbursement through the scheme.

The scheme is not means-tested, meaning eligibility is not affected by income or savings. It can also contribute towards the cost of a coffin.

If you are arranging a funeral and have concerns about costs, please speak with us on 01892 611811. We will also be happy to discuss the support that may be available and help you find the most appropriate and affordable arrangements for your loved one.