FEMA: COVID-19 Pandemic Funeral Expenses
It is safe to say that the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world. During these times people have been affected in all sorts of ways. Whether it be financial loss, physical sickness, or mental pain, the pandemic has had an affect on all of us. Throughout the pandemic we have sadly seen many pass away. Given the financial burden, COVID-19 has made it hard for some to cover funeral costs. However, there is good news. FEMA, through the Coronavirus Response & Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 are here to help with the funeral costs of COVID-19 deaths.
COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Eligibility
To receive funeral assistance you must meet certain requirements. Firstly, the death of the person has to have taken place in the United States. To clarify, this includes U.S territories like D.C for example. Secondly, you must be able to provide proof that COVID-19 caused the death. Thirdly, “the applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after January 20, 2020.” -FEMA Lastly, there is no citizen requirement for the deceased person.
Required COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Information
To begin, in the event that you have COVID-19 funeral expenses, you should document everything. That being said, in order to receive your funds you must provide a few pieces of information.
Death Certificate
Firstly, you must provide a valid death certificate. Most importantly, the death certificate must show proof that the cause of death was due to COVID-19. Furthermore, the death certificate must also show that the death took place in the United States or a U.S territory.
Documentation of Funeral Expenses
In addition to a death certificate, people seeking funeral assistance must provide funeral expense documents. The information must be correct and truthful. The information needed includes receipts from the funeral as well as the funeral homes contact information. Likewise, you will need to include both the applicant and deceased persons names.
Reporting Funeral Expenses & Date
You will need to prove the amount of your funeral expenses and the date the funeral expenses took place. Lastly, you must be able to prove that you are not receiving assistance from other agencies or insurance programs. You should be aware that FEMA is not allowed to duplicate other payments.
How to Receive my Funds?
In short, once you find out if you are eligible, you will be able to get your funds through check or direct deposit. When you apply you will be given the option to choose how you receive your money.
Where to Apply?
You cannot apply online and must call the number listed above in order to receive an application. “Call this dedicated toll-free phone number to get a COVID-19 Funeral Assistance application completed with help from FEMA’s representatives. Multilingual services will be available.” -FEMA
COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Line Number
Phone Number: 844-684-6333
Hours: M-F, 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Eastern Time
Source:
www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/economic/funeral-assistance.
