Some organisations can provide financial support depending on characteristics such as your age, location, gender or nationality.
Use the Turn2us grant finder tool to see what may be available to you.
You can search using different criteria such as your postcode, age, health issues, occupation etc.
Did you know?
- Most charities require evidence that you have explored all other sources of funding, particularly any government funding that you are entitled to before considering an application.
- Charities will often only consider paying an outstanding funeral bill. They usually pay the funeral director directly. Many won't pay you or a family member or friend, but there are some exceptions. It is worth checking before applying.
Hints and tips
Always enclose as much evidence as possible to support your application, for example a copy of the funeral bill, any benefits letters regarding a funeral payment and recent bank statements.
Frequently asked questions about charity applications
Will charities help with funeral costs?
Some charities may be able to give grants to help towards the cost of a funeral.
What charities help with funeral costs?
There are a variety of different charities that may help. Some are related to the work or profession of the person applying or the person who has died, and others can provide financial support depending on characteristics such as your age, location, gender or nationality.
How much will charities give?
They all give different grant amounts. Some smaller charities will only be able to contribute a much smaller amount whilst larger ones may be able to contribute more. Things like length of time spent in an occupation and financial circumstances are often considered when deciding how much can be awarded. It's possible to apply to several charities at the same time if you are eligible, as they may be able to share funeral costs, but you should let them know about other charity applications.
I have paid the bill; will charities reimburse me?
Most charities will not reimburse money already paid on a funeral bill so do consider this carefully if you are thinking of borrowing money to pay the bill. If you do need to do this, it's a good idea to check in advance whether they would consider reimbursing you.
How can I find charities I might be able to apply to?
You can do an internet search using key words about professions and use online grants search tools such as Turn2us or Lightning Reach to see what may be available to you.