Funeral costs in the UK have steadily risen in recent years, placing significant financial pressure on grieving families.
For those on low incomes or in receipt of certain benefits, assistance is available in the form of the Funeral Expenses Payment, offered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
This government-backed support helps ease the burden of funeral-related expenses for eligible individuals.
Understanding who qualifies, what is covered, and how much one can receive is essential for planning and peace of mind during an emotionally difficult time.
What is the DWP Funeral Expenses Payment and Who Offers It?
The Funeral Expenses Payment is financial assistance provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help people on low income pay for a funeral. It is a one-off grant that can contribute towards certain funeral costs if the applicant is eligible.
This support is not intended to cover the full cost of a funeral but rather to assist with necessary services, such as burial or cremation, and a portion of the associated expenses.
The payment is sometimes referred to as a DWP funeral grant or funeral payment and is offered as part of the government’s wider support for bereaved families.
It applies to funerals arranged in England, Scotland, and Wales. Northern Ireland has a separate system managed by the Social Fund.
How Much is the Funeral Grant From DWP in 2025?
The amount a person can receive from the DWP Funeral Expenses Payment in 2025 depends on their personal financial situation and the specific funeral arrangements.
There is no fixed amount for every applicant, but there are standard contributions for particular items.
The payment typically includes:
- Burial fees for a specific grave plot
- Cremation fees, including the doctor’s certificate
- Up to £1,000 toward other costs like funeral director’s services, a coffin, flowers, and transport
If the person who passed away had a pre-paid funeral plan, the DWP will only contribute up to £120 for items not included in the plan.
In all cases, the amount awarded is adjusted based on available funds from the deceased’s estate or other insurance or savings.
Who is Eligible for a Funeral Expenses Payment in the UK?
Eligibility for this payment depends on both the applicant’s relationship to the deceased and the benefits they are receiving at the time of application.
Applicants must receive one or more of the following benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Housing Benefit
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit (which includes a disability element)
Additionally, they must be:
- The partner of the deceased
- A close relative or close friend who is responsible for the funeral
- The parent of a deceased child or stillborn baby after 24 weeks of pregnancy
There are further considerations regarding other close family members. If someone else who is closer to the deceased is not receiving benefits and can take responsibility, the applicant may not be eligible.
What Costs Does the DWP Funeral Grant Cover?
The grant does not cover all funeral-related expenses but is limited to essential elements. The following table outlines what is covered and what is not:
| Item | Covered by DWP |
| Burial fees | Yes |
| Cremation fees | Yes |
| Doctor’s certificate (for cremation) | Yes |
| Funeral director’s basic services | Partially (within £1,000 limit) |
| Flowers and coffin | Partially (within £1,000 limit) |
| Travel to the funeral (for applicant) | In some cases |
| Memorials or headstones | No |
| Catering, venue hire, or wake expenses | No |
| Death notices or printed orders of service | No |
The £1,000 contribution toward other funeral expenses is not itemised by DWP and can be used at the discretion of the funeral director or applicant for appropriate services within that budget.
How Does the Claim Process Work for a Funeral Payment?
The claim process begins when the applicant contacts the DWP either before or after the funeral has taken place. It is strongly advised to apply as early as possible, especially if a benefits decision is pending.
Applicants can apply:
- Online via the GOV.UK website
- By calling the Bereavement Service helpline
- Using the Funeral Expenses Payment claim form (SF200), which can be submitted by post
The necessary documents include:
- National Insurance numbers for the applicant and the deceased
- Funeral invoice or signed contract from the funeral provider
- Proof of benefit entitlements
- Information about the deceased’s estate, if applicable
If the funeral has already been paid for, reimbursement will be issued to the applicant. If it is unpaid or partially paid, the grant will go directly to the funeral provider.
How Is the Funeral Grant Paid and to Whom?
The DWP usually pays the Funeral Expenses Payment directly to the funeral director to cover unpaid or partially paid invoices.
This method helps reduce the financial burden on families who may not have immediate access to funds.
If the applicant has already made payments, the DWP may reimburse them directly. This typically applies when a deposit has been paid or the full amount has been settled in advance. The payment can take approximately three to four weeks to process.
Here is an example breakdown based on a typical funeral service:
| Description | Amount (£) |
| Total funeral cost | 3,926.00 |
| Deposit paid (40%) | 1,570.40 |
| Funeral Expenses Payment (DWP) | 1,985.00 |
| Remaining balance due | 370.60 |
This illustrates how the DWP grant helps lower the overall out-of-pocket expense, but a portion of the cost remains the responsibility of the applicant.
How Soon Should Someone Apply for the DWP Funeral Payment?
The application must be made within six months of the funeral date. Late applications will generally be refused unless there are exceptional circumstances.
Applicants can also start the process before the funeral takes place, provided they have a signed invoice or contract from the funeral provider.
This approach can be beneficial in confirming the potential contribution and understanding what financial assistance will be available.
Applying early also allows applicants to coordinate with funeral directors on the deposit amount and payment stages.
How Soon Should Someone Apply for the DWP Funeral Payment?
Timing is crucial when applying for the Funeral Expenses Payment from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Although the financial pressure of a funeral can be overwhelming, especially when navigating grief, it’s important not to delay the application process.
The DWP requires that all applications for a Funeral Expenses Payment be made within six months of the date of the funeral.
This deadline is strict, and late applications are typically rejected unless there are exceptional circumstances.
It is therefore advisable to prepare for the claim as early as possible, even if some aspects of your financial situation or benefit entitlements are still being processed.
Applicants do not need to wait until after the funeral has taken place to submit a claim. In fact, the DWP allows individuals to apply in advance, provided they have a final invoice or signed estimate from a funeral director.
This can be particularly useful if you are still waiting for a qualifying benefit decision from the DWP, as your claim can be considered once your benefit is approved.
There are two key scenarios to consider:
1. Applying Before the Funeral
- You must have a signed funeral invoice or written agreement from the provider.
- The funeral does not need to be paid in full yet.
- This allows you to understand how much support you may receive and plan accordingly.
- If you’re arranging the funeral on behalf of someone else and are unsure of your benefit eligibility, you can still submit an application, which will be processed once the benefit decision is made.
2. Applying After the Funeral
- You must apply no later than six months from the funeral date.
- All required documents, including the death certificate and funeral invoice, should be ready.
- If you’ve already paid for the funeral, you may be reimbursed directly by the DWP.
The processing time for Funeral Expenses Payments usually takes around 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the completeness of your application and any pending benefit assessments. Submitting all relevant documents at the time of your application can help avoid delays.
In the meantime, you may need to pay a deposit to the funeral provider, typically around 40% of the total cost. Funeral directors are often familiar with the DWP claim process and can support you in meeting these initial costs until the grant is paid.
In summary, the sooner you apply, the better your chances of receiving financial support without unnecessary stress or delay. Early application also provides clarity on what costs will be covered and how much you may need to contribute personally, helping you make informed decisions at a difficult time.
Where Can You Apply or Get Help With a Funeral Grant?
The easiest way to apply is through the DWP Bereavement Service, which offers telephone support and guidance throughout the application process.
Contact information:
- Bereavement Service Helpline: 0800 169 0140
- Textphone: 0800 731 0464
- Welsh language line: 0800 731 0453
- Relay UK users: 18001 then 0800 731 0469
The service operates Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. Applicants can also use the online GOV.UK funeral payment portal – “https://www.gov.uk/funeral-payments” to download claim forms or start the application electronically.
Funeral directors are also a useful resource. They often assist families in navigating the DWP claims process, providing accurate invoices, and offering advice on payment options such as the standard 40% deposit required before the funeral takes place.
How Much Do You Still Have to Pay After the DWP Funeral Grant?
Even after receiving the Funeral Expenses Payment, most applicants will have to contribute a portion of the total funeral cost. This is especially the case when the funeral includes services or extras not covered by the grant.
Typical payment structure:
- 40% deposit is required by many funeral providers at the time of arranging the service
- DWP may take 3 to 4 weeks to process and pay the grant
- Any remaining balance must be covered by the applicant once the grant has been applied
Families should be aware of the total costs and plan for the portion not covered by DWP to avoid financial strain or delays in services.
Conclusion
The DWP Funeral Expenses Payment is a critical support mechanism for UK residents facing financial difficulty in arranging a funeral.
While it doesn’t cover all costs, it offers significant relief for essential services such as cremation or burial fees and up to £1,000 for additional expenses.
By understanding the eligibility criteria, knowing how and when to apply, and coordinating with your funeral director, families can ensure they receive the financial support they are entitled to during a challenging time.
FAQs About DWP Funeral Grants
Can I get the DWP Funeral Grant if I’m not a family member?
The grant is generally for close family members, but individuals with reasonable responsibility for the funeral arrangements may still qualify.
What if I’m waiting on a benefits decision, can I still apply?
Yes, you can begin your application while awaiting a decision, provided you inform the DWP of the circumstances.
Will the grant cover a direct cremation or unattended funeral?
Yes, though the total amount may be lower due to fewer required services.
Can I claim the funeral grant after the funeral has already happened?
Yes, as long as you apply within six months of the funeral date.
How long does the DWP take to process the payment?
Typically, 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the completeness of the application and documentation provided.
Is there a difference between DWP Funeral Payment and Bereavement Support Payment?
Yes. The Funeral Expenses Payment helps with funeral costs, while Bereavement Support Payment is based on the deceased’s National Insurance contributions.
Can more than one person claim the funeral grant?
No. Only one application per funeral is permitted usually by the person with primary responsibility for the arrangements.
