Beginning April 12, the Federal Emergency Management Agency will begin accepting applications for funeral assistance through its dedicated call center.

Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, FEMA will provide financial assistance for COVID-19-related funeral expenses incurred after Jan. 20, 2020.

To be eligible for funeral assistance, the following conditions must be met:

– The death must have occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia.
– The death certificate must indicate the death was attributed to COVID-19.
– The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after Jan. 20, 2020.
– There is no requirement for the deceased person to have been a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien.

To apply, call the COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Line Number, 844-684-6333 or TTY 800-462-7585, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Suggested documentation includes the following:

– An official death certificate that attributes the death directly or indirectly to COVID-19 and shows that the death occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories and the District of Columbia.
– Funeral expenses documents (receipts, funeral home contract, etc.) that include the applicant’s name, the deceased person’s name, the amount of funeral expenses and the dates the funeral expenses happened.
– Proof of funds received from other sources specifically for use toward funeral costs. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits received from burial or funeral insurance, financial assistance received from voluntary agencies, government agencies, or other sources.

If you are eligible for funeral assistance you will receive a check by mail, or funds by direct deposit, depending on which option you choose when you apply for assistance.