Starting next week, loved ones who had to pay for funerals during the COVID-19 pandemic can apply to get it covered by FEMA.
FEMA announced on Wednesday that it would pay up to $9,000 per funeral and that applications for reimbursement will be accepted beginning Monday, April 12, 2021.
“At FEMA, our mission is to help people before, during, and after disasters,” said acting FEMA administrator Bob Fenton. “The COVID-19 pandemic has caused immense grief for so many people. Although we cannot change what has happened, we affirm our commitment to helping with funeral and burial expenses that many families did not anticipate.”
This assistance is provided by FEMA under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, all of which were signed into law by the Biden Administration.
Who is eligible for funeral assistance?
The death would have happened in the United States, including U.S. territory and the District of Columbia, to be responsible for funeral assistance.
Although the claimant must be a U.S. resident, non-citizen national, or qualified immigrant, the deceased person does not have to be.
An applicant may apply for multiple deceased individuals.
How much money will FEMA reimburse?
The financial aid is limited to a maximum of $9,000 per funeral and a maximum of $35,500 per application.
How are the funds received?
If you are registered for funeral aid, you can either collect a check in the mail or funds by direct deposit, based on the choice you choose while applying for assistance.
FEMA will be releasing more details soon on how to submit your application here.
