Funeral Financial Support


Funeral Financial Support
Planning a funeral during a time of grief can feel overwhelming —
and for many families, the added financial pressure can make an already emotional time even harder to cope with and navigate. At Cutmore Family Funeral Directors, we believe every person deserves a dignified and respectful farewell, regardless of their financial circumstances or personal situation.
We’re here to offer clear, compassionate advice about funeral financial support, whether you’re arranging a service now, planning for the future, or simply exploring your options. This guide outlines the various forms of assistance available, what you might be eligible for, and how we can help you access the right support for your individual circumstances.
Understanding Funeral Costs
A funeral typically involves a combination of essential and optional expenses. These may include:
- Funeral director services (care, transportation, and coordination)
- Cremation or burial fees
- Venue hire and officiant fees
- Coffin or casket selection
- Flowers, service sheets, and music
- Memorial masonry or urns
- Reception or wake arrangements
We provide transparent funeral financial support, pricing, and flexible packages to help you understand and manage these costs. We also work with you to create a respectful service within your budget.
Government Support for Funeral Costs
If you’re struggling to pay for a funeral, there may be funeral financial support available from the UK government or local authorities.
Funeral Expenses Payment (England, Wales, and Northern Ireland)
This benefit helps people on certain income-related benefits with the cost of a funeral. You may be eligible if you are responsible for arranging the funeral and receive one or more of the following:
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (income-based)
- Employment and Support Allowance (income-related)
- Working Tax Credit (with disability element)
The payment can help cover:
- Burial or cremation fees
- Travel to the funeral
- Necessary documentation
- Some funeral director costs
Keep in mind this payment may not cover the full funeral cost, and is usually paid directly to the funeral director or reimbursed to you.
Local Authority Help
Some local councils offer funeral financial support through discretionary grants, particularly in cases of public health funerals or when no family is able to contribute. These services are often limited, but we can help you explore what may be available locally.
Charitable and Community Support
There are several charities and organisations offering financial assistance for funerals, especially in specific circumstances. These include:
- Turn2Us – a national charity helping people in financial hardship access grants and support.
- The Child Funeral Charity – offers help with the cost of funerals for babies and children.
- Armed Forces and Veterans' charities – may provide financial aid for former service members.
- Religious or cultural organisations – often assist within their communities for end-of-life costs.
If you think you may qualify, we can help you contact these organisations and assist with applications.
Bereavement Support Payment
If your husband, wife, or civil partner has died and you are under State Pension age, you may qualify for funeral financial support through a Bereavement Support Payment. This is a tax-free payment made up of a lump sum followed by monthly payments for up to 18 months.
Eligibility depends on your partner’s National Insurance contributions and your age at the time of death.
Talk to Us Today
If you’re concerned about costs or want to explore funeral financial support options, please reach out. At Cutmore Family Funeral Directors, we’re here to provide compassionate, practical advice — helping you focus on what matters most.
Call us today, or visit our Contact Page to speak with a member of our caring team.