We understand that paying for the funeral can sometimes be difficult. If you feel you may have difficulties with covering the funeral costs, please let us know. Our staff will be able to discuss the options that may be available to you.

You may be eligible to receive a Funeral Payment from the Social Fund. This is means tested and is dependent on the person responsible for arranging the funeral being in receipt of government benefits.

The Funeral Payment only covers the necessary burial or cremation costs and a maximum of £700 towards the funeral director’s fees.

You may also be entitled to a one off, tax free, lump sum payment of £2000. You may be able to claim this payment if your husband, wife or civil partner had paid their National Insurance contributions (NICs) or their death was caused by their job and either:

  • you were under State Pension age when they died
  • your husband, wife or civil partner was not entitled to Category A state Retirement Benefit when they died

For further information and help available to you from the Social Fund please visit External link opens in new tab or windowwww.direct.gov.uk and search bereavement.

Some large company pensions have their own fund to assist members in need. If the deceased was a member of a company pension, you may be able to apply for assistance. You would need to contact the deceased’s company pension scheme for further details.