Help with funeral costs: Funeral Expenses Payment and Funeral Support Payment

Two government schemes can help people on a low income pay for a funeral. Which one applies depends on where you live: the Funeral Expenses Payment covers England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and Scotland has its own Funeral Support Payment. Find yours below.

England, Wales and Northern Ireland

Funeral Expenses Payment

Who it's for: People responsible for a funeral who, with their partner, get a qualifying benefit such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit. England, Wales and Northern Ireland only.
What you get: Burial or cremation fees in full, plus up to £1,000 for other costs. It will not usually cover the full cost of the funeral.
How to claim: Claim by phone on 0800 151 2012 or by post with form SF200, within 6 months of the funeral. Northern Ireland claims go to the Department for Communities.

Full eligibility rules and how to apply

Scotland

Funeral Support Payment (Scotland)

Who it's for: People in Scotland responsible for a funeral who, or whose partner, get a qualifying benefit such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit.
What you get: Burial or cremation fees (usually in full), plus a flat £1,327.75 for other costs. Travel costs can be added. It usually won't cover everything.
How to claim: Apply online, by phone on 0800 182 2222 or on paper through Social Security Scotland, up to 6 months after the funeral.

Full eligibility rules and how to apply

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Summarised from the full listings linked above, last checked 3 October 2026. See the footer disclaimer — this is general information, not financial or tax advice, and rules change, so confirm on the official page before you apply.