11 Charities That Help With Funeral Costs in 2026

Funeral costs catch most families off guard. Funeral costs can be quite high, averaging $8,136. Many people don't have that money saved.

But don’t worry, because you have options. There are several charities that help with funeral costs across the U.S. This includes government programs, charities and grants.

This guide covers nine options of charities that help with funeral costs to help you pay for funerals. Not sure where to start with funeral planning? The team at After is here to guide you through your options with transparency, care and zero pressure.

You can call us 24/7 at 1-844-760-0427.

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11 Charities That Help With Funeral Costs: Quick Comparison

How We Researched These Organizations

We evaluated each organization by reviewing official program pages, eligibility criteria and coverage details, cross-referencing government sources for all benefit amounts as of April 2026.

• Eligibility: How clearly each organization defines who qualifies and under what circumstances
• Coverage scope: Whether assistance is local, regional or national and what expenses are included
• Application process: How accessible and straightforward it is to apply, especially during a time of grief
• Accuracy: Whether benefit amounts and program details are confirmed by official or primary sources
• Practical value: How useful each organization is for the families most likely to need it

This approach helped us identify which programs offer genuine, actionable help and avoid those with outdated information, closed applications or overly narrow eligibility.

1. The TEARS Foundation: Best for Infant and Child Funeral Assistance

Contact: 215-870-8110 | Apply online

Who it's for: Families who have lost a baby or child and need help with funeral costs

Coverage: Varies by program and state. Funds go directly to funeral homes.

The TEARS Foundation was founded by Sarah Slack after her son Jesse was stillborn and she had to hold a garage sale to afford his headstone. That experience led her to help other families in a similar situation.

TEARS provides financial assistance and grief support to families who have lost a child in Alaska, Arizona, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Dakota (Western Region), Washington or Wyoming.

Programs include:

• Infant Funeral Assistance: Support for funeral costs and planning
• Angel of Hope: Engrave your child’s name on a monument for remembrance
• Cali's Gift: Ages 13 to 22, drug-related or suicide deaths
• Jesse's Grant: Grave markers for babies who were between 20 weeks of gestation and 1 year old when they passed away

What they cover:

• Funeral expenses paid directly to funeral homes
• Grave markers in some cases
• Grief counseling support connections

Application process: Submit your application online with funeral home details and official documentation. The foundation aims to respond within 48 hours.

Pros:

✅ Specializes in supporting bereaved parents with multiple programs for different age ranges

✅ Applications available in English and Spanish

✅ Fast 48-hour response time

Cons:

❌ Only for infant and child funerals, not adults

❌ Available only in certain states

❌ Requires coordination with funeral homes

2. Final Farewell: Best for Child Burial Support in Pennsylvania

Contact: 215-870-8110 | Email for help

Who it's for: Families struggling to afford funeral costs for a child 18 or younger

Coverage: Primarily the greater Philadelphia area, with assistance available across Pennsylvania and all 50 states

Final Farewell was founded by Mr. and Mrs. Quinn, funeral professionals who regularly encountered grieving families who couldn't afford to bury a child.

What began as helping one to three families a year grew into a formal nonprofit providing a proper burial for children who don't survive their illness.

The organization provides financial assistance, advice and guidance to families of all religions and backgrounds. They work with funeral homes and cemeteries to negotiate at-cost services.

In the most serious hardship cases, qualifying families may receive full funeral services, including burial at no cost.

Pros:

✅ Serves families in all 50 states, not just Pennsylvania

✅ Welcomes all religious and cultural backgrounds

✅ May cover full funeral service costs for qualifying families

✅ No overhead from paid staff

Cons:

❌ Financial assistance depends on available funding

❌ Children 18 and younger only, not adults

❌ Most direct support concentrated in the Philadelphia area

3. Hebrew Free Burial Association: Best for Indigent Jewish Families in New York

Contact: 212-239-1662 | Contact HFBA

Who it's for: Jewish individuals and families who cannot afford funeral or burial costs

Coverage: Greater New York City metropolitan area

The Hebrew Free Burial Association is the only agency in the greater New York area dedicated to dignified, traditional Jewish funerals and burials. It serves every Jewish person regardless of financial means or religious affiliation.

Since the 1880s, HFBA has buried over 65,000 Jewish individuals of all ages, from newborns to the elderly.

When a death is reported, staff respond immediately. Jewish law requires prompt burial. HFBA's team handles everything like the removal of the individual, government paperwork and death benefit claims.

Staff speak English, Russian, Yiddish, Hebrew and Spanish.

What they provide:

• All funeral arrangements and burial at Mount Richmond Cemetery in Staten Island
• Coordination with government agencies
• Assistance with death benefit claims and grief support for families

Pros:

✅ Covers the full cost of a traditional Jewish funeral and burial

✅ Handles all logistics, paperwork and benefit claims

✅ Multilingual staff available 24/7

Cons:

❌ Limited to the greater New York City area

❌ Serves Jewish individuals only

4. Catholic Charities: Best for Faith-Based Burial Support

Contact: Varies by location | Find your local office

Who it's for: Low-income families needing funeral or burial help

Coverage: Diocese of Charlotte, covering 46 counties in North Carolina

Catholic Charities works directly with funeral homes to secure reduced-cost services for families in financial distress. For many families, the assistance arrives at a crucial time of grief or trauma from sudden or violent loss.

Case managers follow up within 48 hours of contact and connect families with wraparound support, including grief counseling, food pantries and housing resources.

What they cover:

• Up to $5,000 per family in qualifying cases
• Private family viewing and graveside services
• Financial support for caskets and burial requirements
• Death certificate filing plus one certified copy

Pros:

✅ Direct payment to funeral homes, no bills for the family

✅ Reduced rates through pre-negotiated agreements

✅ Wraparound support, including counseling, food and housing referrals

Cons:

❌ Only covers specific outlined services

❌ No out-of-state or international transport

❌ Helps about 17 families monthly due to funding limits

5. GoFundMe: Best for Community Crowdfunding

Contact: No phone support | Start a fundraiser

Who it's for: Families who want to raise funeral funds through community support

Coverage: Nationwide and global

Pricing: No platform fee. Payment processing fees are 2.9% plus $0.30 per donation.

GoFundMe lets you create online fundraisers in minutes. You share the campaign with friends, family and community members. People donate to help cover funeral costs.

Note: GoFundMe isn’t a charity. It's a platform where families share their stories and receive community support.

Features include:

• Personalized campaign pages with photos and stories
• Real-time donation tracking and withdrawal as funds arrive
• Message templates for writing requests
• Can double as an online memorial page

Pros:

✅ No upfront cost to start with fast access to funds

✅ Easy to share through social media

Cons:

❌ Requires time and energy during grief

❌ Success depends on your network size

❌ Processing fees reduce donation amounts

❌ Donations are not guaranteed

6. Funeral Consumers Alliance: Best for Education and Advocacy

Contact: 802-865-8300 | Get in touch

Who it's for: Families who want to make informed, budget-friendly funeral choices

Pricing: Free educational resources. No direct financial assistance.

The Funeral Consumers Alliance doesn't pay for funerals. Instead, it's an educational nonprofit that believes no family should face funeral poverty. They work to prevent it through consumer education, advocacy and a nationwide network of local affiliates.

The FCA advocates for every family's right to make informed, independent funeral decisions regardless of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status or religious background.

When families have a complaint about a funeral provider, the FCA refers them to the appropriate agencies and helps them understand their rights.

What they offer:

• Educational content in multiple formats at little or no cost
• Local pricing data
• Consumer complaint referrals
• Legislative advocacy for industry transparency
• Guidance for finding local affiliates

Pros:

✅ Empowers families through education, completely nonprofit

✅ Nationwide network advocating for systemic industry changes

Cons:

❌ No direct financial assistance

❌ Requires active research from families

❌ Savings vary by location

7. State & County Burial Aid: Best for Last-Resort Government Assistance

Contact: Contact your local human services department

Who it's for: Low-income families with no other way to pay for funeral costs

Coverage: Varies widely by state and county

Assistance amounts: Range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars

Every state has its own burial assistance rules, typically run through local city or county offices. Benefits often go directly to funeral homes rather than families.

What programs may cover:

• Basic burial or cremation costs and burial plots in public cemeteries
• Transportation of remains

These programs serve as a last resort. You must exhaust all other options first before qualifying.

Pros:

✅ Crucial safety net for those without resources

✅ Can reduce or eliminate funeral costs

✅ May include burial plots

Cons:

❌ Highly variable by location and available only as a last resort

❌ Benefits are often modest

❌ Complex applications require quick documentation

❌ Funds typically go to providers, not families

One important tip: Ask your local funeral home or cremation service directly about available assistance programs.

They have this information even if they don't advertise it. Depending on the state, the funeral home may actually be the party required to petition the state for assistance on your behalf.

8. Military Burial Benefits: Best for Veterans and Active Duty Families

Contact: 800-698-2411 | Apply at VA.gov

Who it's for: Families of veterans who paid burial or funeral costs and won't be reimbursed by another organization

Coverage: Nationwide

The VA provides burial benefits for all legal burial types, including cremation and burial at sea.

Veterans buried in VA national cemeteries receive grave opening and closing, a government-furnished headstone or marker, perpetual gravesite care and a burial flag for next of kin.

What it covers:

• Service-connected death (on or after Sept. 11, 2001): up to $2,000
• Non-service-connected death: $1,002 burial allowance and $1,002 for a plot

The VA may also reimburse transportation costs when remains are moved to a national cemetery.

Who qualifies:

• The veteran must not have received a dishonorable discharge.
• Eligible claimants like the surviving spouse, children, parents or executor of the estate.
• One qualifying circumstance must apply, such as a service-connected death, death while receiving VA care or death while receiving VA pension or compensation.
• Claims for non-service-connected deaths must be filed within 2 years of burial or cremation.
• Service-connected deaths hold no time limit for burial claims, plot/interment allowances, or transportation reimbursements.

Pros:

✅ Reduces financial burden for military families

✅ Dignified burial with national recognition and ceremonial honors

✅ Covers cremation and burial at sea equally

Cons:

❌ Benefits modest compared to actual costs

❌ Requires paperwork during grief

❌ Many expenses remain out-of-pocket

❌ Plot allowance does not apply to burials in national cemeteries

9. Behind the Scenes Foundation: Best for Entertainment Industry Professionals

Contact: 212-244-1421 | Apply for a grant

Who it's for: Entertainment technology professionals and their families who need help with funeral costs

Coverage: Nationwide (U.S. and Canada)

Behind the Scenes is a nonprofit that supports entertainment technology professionals like crew members, technicians and production staff who work behind the camera. Performing artists are not eligible.

To qualify, the individual must have earned their living in the entertainment technology industry for at least 5 years. They don't need to have been actively working at the time of death, as long as the time out of the industry was less than the total time worked.

What they provide:

• Funeral Assistance Grant: Up to $500 toward funeral expenses for families of eligible entertainment technology professionals
• Basic Needs Grant: Helps with rent, mortgage, utilities, insurance, transportation and medical expenses for seriously ill or injured professionals or their dependent family members
• Counseling Grant: Covers therapy, psychiatric care or chemical dependency recovery programs, paid directly to a licensed provider
• Natural Disaster Relief Grant: A $250 American Express electronic gift card for immediate needs like food, clothing or medication following a natural disaster

How to apply: Download the Funeral Assistance Grant Application and submit it with supporting documentation by email to grants@btshelp.org, or mail to P.O. Box 368, Lakeville, CT 06039. All documents must be submitted as PDFs.

Pros:

✅ Serves a specific and often overlooked professional community

✅ Covers both U.S. and Canadian residents

Cons:

❌ Limited to entertainment technology professionals only

❌ Funeral grant capped at $500

❌ Performing artists are not eligible

10. In Lieu of Flowers: Best for Online Funeral Fundraising Through Funeral Homes

Contact: No phone support | Start a campaign at ILOF.com

Who it's for: Families who want to raise funds for funeral costs through an online donation platform connected directly to their funeral home

Coverage: Nationwide

In Lieu of Flowers is an online fundraising platform built specifically for funeral homes and the families they serve.

Founded by funeral industry professionals, it lets family and friends donate directly toward funeral costs through a secure, dedicated campaign page, with all funds paid directly to the funeral home.

Once a family selects a funeral provider, the funeral director sets up a campaign page on ILOF.com and shares the link. Friends and family can donate from anywhere using secure payment technology.

If the funeral director isn't familiar with the platform, ILOF will contact them directly on the family's behalf.

What they provide:

• Personalized campaign pages set up by the funeral home
• Platform for secure online donations paid directly to the funeral home
• The option to create a memorial fund. This allows donations to accumulate and transfer to the next of kin or a chosen organization after the campaign ends.

Pros:

✅ Funds go directly to the funeral home, not through the family

✅ Works alongside any licensed funeral provider

✅ Can function as both a fundraiser and a memorial

Cons:

❌ Requires a participating or onboarded funeral home to set up the campaign

❌ Not a charity. Donations are not tax-deductible

❌ Families without an established funeral provider must find one first

11. Hospice Support Foundation: Best for Hospice Patients and Families in the Midwest

Contact: 651-294-6100 | Apply for a grant

Who it's for: Active Medicaid participants currently in hospice care or who passed away while in hospice care

Coverage: South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Michigan

Hospice Support Foundation is a nonprofit that provides funeral and memorial assistance to hospice patients and their families in the Midwest.

To qualify, the individual must be an active Medicaid participant currently enrolled in hospice care or who passed away while receiving hospice care. You must apply for state, county and VA assistance before applying to HSF.

What they cover: Funeral and memorial service costs, including cremation, burial and cemetery costs. Grant amounts are based on the direct cremation cost in the applicant's state and on the applicant's current household income and assets.

They pay funeral homes directly and can’t reimburse costs that have already been paid in full.

How to apply:

• Download the grant application from their website. Submit by email to info@hospicesupportfoundation.org or by mail to 1175 Centre Pointe Circle, Mendota Heights, MN 55120.
• Standard review takes 10 to 15 business days.
• Emergency requests are reviewed within 72 hours.

Pros:

✅ Covers both cremation and burial costs

✅ Emergency review available within 72 hours

✅ Pays funeral homes directly, no reimbursement needed from families

Cons:

❌ Limited to 10 Midwestern states

❌ Active Medicaid enrollment required

❌ State, county and VA assistance must be sought first

❌ Cannot assist if funeral costs have already been paid in full

What to Do if You Still Can’t Afford a Funeral

You've explored charities and programs, but costs still feel overwhelming. You have other options.

• Social Security lump-sum death benefit: The SSA pays a one-time $255 benefit to an eligible surviving spouse or dependent child.
• Whole-body donation programs: Many universities and medical schools accept whole-body donations at no cost to the family. These programs return remains after use. Contact a local medical school or program for details. These arrangements typically require advance planning.
• Burial insurance: If your loved one held a final expense or burial insurance policy, contact the insurer immediately. The benefit pays directly to the named beneficiary and can cover a significant portion of costs.
• Union or employer death benefits: Some unions and employers maintain hardship funds or death benefits for members and their families. Check with the HR department or union representative to confirm what's available.
• Public safety officer benefits: Families of law enforcement officers, firefighters and other public safety personnel who die in the line of duty may qualify for federal and state survivor benefits. Contact the Public Safety Officers' Benefits program through the Department of Justice at psob.ojp.gov.
• Funeral homes and local support groups: Ask your local funeral home or cremation service directly about assistance programs. Local churches, nonprofits and community organizations sometimes maintain discretionary funds specifically for families in need.
• Consider a simple celebration of life: Host a gathering at home or a local park. Share stories, photos and music. This type of memorial costs very little and often feels more personal than a traditional service.
• Choose direct cremation: Direct cremation skips viewing, embalming and ceremonies. It's the most affordable option for after-death care and lets you plan a separate memorial when you're emotionally and financially ready.

Why After Is a Simpler Path for Cremation Planning

If you're exploring charities that help with funeral costs, direct cremation through After may reduce what you need to raise in the first place.

After provides direct cremation services entirely online. You arrange everything from home with no funeral home visits and no sales pressure. A Care Specialist walks you through paperwork and the next steps at every stage.

Pricing varies by zip code. Visit the pricing page to see current rates in your area. Every package includes transportation, all permits and paperwork, a dedicated Care Specialist, refrigeration up to 5 business days, a basic cremation container, an online obituary listing and grief support resources.

Families who need flexible payment options can use LilyPay to spread payments across 3 or 6 months for a flat fee. LilyPay also enables crowdfunding through Community Gardens to help cover cremation costs.

Are you considering cremation planning and need guidance on your options? The team at After is here to help with transparency, care and zero pressure. You can call us 24/7 at 1-844-760-0427.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Charities That Help With Funeral Costs?

The best charities that help with funeral costs depend on your situation. The TEARS Foundation helps families who have lost infants or young children. Catholic Charities assists low-income families in certain regions. Final Farewell helps with child funerals in Pennsylvania. 

Check each organization's eligibility rules and service areas before applying.

Can I Get Help if I'm Uninsured or Low-Income?

Yes, you can get help if you’re uninsured or low-income. Many charities, county programs and funeral homes assist families who can't afford services. Some counties provide burial aid for residents with limited resources. Contact local social services or funeral directors to find available help in your area.

Does Medicaid Cover Funeral or Cremation Costs?

No, Medicaid doesn’t directly cover funeral costs. Some states link burial assistance programs to Medicaid eligibility and offer limited help for basic costs. Each runs its own program with different eligibility rules and coverage amounts.

Check with your state's Medicaid office or Department of Human Services to confirm what's available in your area.

How Do I Start a GoFundMe for a Funeral?

Visit GoFundMe.com and click "Start a Fundraiser." Write a clear title and share your loved one's story. Be honest and specific about expenses like cremation fees, burial plots or transportation. Share your fundraiser on social media and through personal messages.

Is Same-Day Funeral Assistance Available?

Yes, same-day assistance is available, but it’s hard to find. Call local charities, county social services or funeral homes directly and explain your situation. Funeral homes can occasionally arrange direct cremation immediately for families showing financial hardship.

What Documents Do I Need to Apply for Funeral Aid?

Most programs require a death certificate, proof of your identity, funeral expense documents (invoices or contracts) and income verification or proof of financial need. Gather these papers in advance to speed up the application process.