Government support for funeral costs

Arranging a loved ones funeral is difficult enough without having to worry about the cost. If you're struggling to pay for the cost of a funeral, you may be eligible for help from the government.

There are a number of options available for you to consider, which may give you that helping hand you need.Take a look below at the different options available:

• Funeral Payments from the Social Fund
• Bereavement Allowance (previously Widow's Pension)
• Bereavement Payment
• Budgeting Loans
• Council Funeral – also known as ‘Paupers’ Funeral

You may be able to apply for a Social Fund Funeral Payment to help with funeral costs and we have information on who may be eligible and how to make a claim. Payment can only be authorised by the Department of Work and Pensions who can be contacted at www.dwp.gov.uk.A Funeral Payment claim form (SF200) may be obtained from a Jobcentre Plus office or by calling the DWP Bereavement Service helpline (available Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm):Telephone: 0345 606 0265Welsh language: 0345 606 0275Textphone: 0345 606 0285Welsh language Textphone: 0345 606 0295The claim form – which comes with notes and details of where to send it – can also be downloaded here.