U.S. Rep. Lawrence Announces New COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Program

Press Release

U.S. Representative Brenda L. Lawrence (MI-14) announces COVID-19 funeral assistance from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Eligible applicants include those who paid for funeral expenses after January 20, 2020 and for an individual whose death may have been caused by or was likely the result of COVID-19. FEMA will begin accepting applications for Funeral Assistance on Monday, April 12 through their dedicated call center at 844-684-6333; TTY 800-462-7585. Hours of operation: Monday-Friday, 8 AM CT - 8 PM CT. No online applications will be accepted. Multilingual services will be available.

"Far too many families in the United States have lost someone close to them to the coronavirus. The financial costs, on top of the emotional trauma, of burying a loved one unexpectedly can be overwhelming. During an already challenging year, this COVID-19 funeral assistance funding is aimed to help families lessen this financial burden and lift a weight off their shoulders," said Rep. Lawrence.

Assistance is limited to a maximum of $9,000 per funeral and a maximum of $35,500 per application per state, territory, or the District of Columbia. Applications may receive assistance for the funeral expenses of multiple deceased individuals. Documentation is needed, and requirements can be found here. To find the FAQ and other info on COVID-19 Funeral Assistance, click here.

Potential applicants are encouraged to start gathering the following documentation:

An official death certificate that attributes the death to COVID-19 and shows that the death occurred in the U. S. The death certificate must indicate the death "may have been caused by" or "was likely the result of" COVID-19 or COVID-19 like symptoms. Similar phrases that indicate a high likelihood of COVID-19 are considered sufficient attribution.
Funeral expense documents (receipts, funeral home contract, etc.) that include the applicant's name, the deceased individual's name, the amount of funeral expenses, and the dates the funeral expenses were incurred.
Proof of funds received from other sources specifically for use toward funeral costs. Funeral assistance may not duplicate benefits received from burial or funeral insurance, financial assistance received from voluntary agencies, federal/state/local/tribal/territorial government programs or agencies, or other sources.

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