Many people hope that social security will pay for cremation, but the reality is that most families need to find other ways to cover the thousands of dollars in expenses. Here’s the truth about how it works:

Social Security provides a one-time death benefit of $255. This payment goes only to eligible survivors and does not cover cremation costs.

Most families still need to pay out of pocket. Cremation can cost thousands, and the $255 benefit hasn’t increased since 1954. If you're counting on Social Security, know that it helps slightly, but not enough to cover final expenses.

Need help right now? The team at After can walk you through your cremation options with care and clarity. Call us 24/7 at 1-844-717-5170.

This article explains how Social Security burial benefits work, does SSI pay for funeral expenses, and what other options can help you pay for cremation.

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Is It True that Social Security Will Pay for Cremation?

Social Security does not pay for cremation. It only offers a one-time death benefit of $255, and this goes to specific eligible survivors. It doesn’t go to funeral homes or cremation providers.

The $255 benefit is the only funeral-related payment available through Social Security. It has not increased since 1954 and does not cover the full cost of cremation or burial.

Applicants need to provide:

• Social Security numbers (the deceased and the applicant)
• A certified death certificate
• Proof of relationship (marriage or birth certificate, adoption papers)
• Form SSA-8 (Application for Lump-Sum Death Payment)

Who Gets the $255 Lump-Sum Death Benefit?

Only certain survivors can receive the lump-sum payment.

Who qualifies for Social Security funeral benefits?

• A spouse who lived with the deceased
• A spouse already receiving benefits based on the deceased’s record
• An eligible child, if no spouse qualifies

To be eligible, a child must be under 18, or under 19 if still in high school. Children with disabilities that began before age 22 may also qualify. Survivors must apply within two years of the date of death to receive the benefit.

What Isn’t Covered

Social Security does not pay funeral homes or reimburse families for funeral or cremation costs. There are no additional payments beyond the $255 death benefit. Families planning ahead should not rely on Social Security to cover final expenses.

Survivors should notify Social Security as soon as possible after the death. Most funeral homes report deaths on behalf of the family, but that doesn’t replace the need to apply. Once approved, payment usually arrives within a few weeks by check or direct deposit.

Who Qualifies for Social Security Burial Benefits?

Social Security burial benefits refer to monthly survivor payments made to eligible family members after a person dies. These benefits are separate from the one-time $255 Lump-Sum Death Benefit and follow different rules.

To qualify, the deceased must have worked and paid into the Social Security system. Most people need about 10 years of work to meet the requirement, but younger workers may qualify with fewer years if they had recent earnings.

Survivor benefits may go to a spouse aged 60 or older, or 50 or older if they have a disability. A spouse of any age may also qualify if they are caring for the deceased’s child who is under 16 or has a disability.

Children may qualify if they are under 18, or under 19 and still in high school. Children with disabilities that began before age 22 may also receive monthly benefits.

Social Security may also pay benefits to dependent parents who are 62 or older. A divorced spouse may qualify if the marriage lasted at least 10 years and they have not remarried.

These benefits are not automatic. Survivors must apply directly through the Social Security Administration. They review eligibility on a case-by-case basis. If no one qualifies, Social Security does not issue any payments. The money does not go to the estate, extended family members, or friends.

Why Social Security Isn’t Enough for Funeral Costs

We must begin with the question, “How much does Social Security pay for funeral expenses?” Social Security provides a one-time death benefit of $255, but that amount does not come close to covering funeral or cremation costs.

The median cost of a funeral with a cremation is $6,280, according to the National Funeral Directors Association. A traditional funeral with burial often costs over $8,000.

The $255 benefit covers only a fraction of most cremation costs. For burials or more elaborate services, the out-of-pocket gap can be several thousand dollars.

Does Disability Pay for Cremation?

Social Security Disability (SSDI) Insurance does not pay for cremation. These programs provide monthly income support, but they offer no funeral or burial benefit. The Social Security Administration does not cover cremation costs under either program.

SSI recipients may set aside up to $1,500 in burial funds. People must clearly designate this money for funeral or cremation expenses. When marked for burial, these funds do not count toward SSI’s asset limits and will not affect a recipient’s eligibility.

SSDI does not include any funeral assistance. People who receive SSDI benefits must use personal savings or other financial support to cover end-of-life expenses.

Some states and counties offer local cremation assistance. These are usually called indigent burial or cremation programs. They may cover direct cremation for individuals who die with no assets and no family able to pay. These programs are not part of Social Security and vary by location.

Each state or county sets its own rules, application process, and funding limits. Some may require proof of financial need, residency, or next-of-kin status before approving help.

Alternatives to Help Cover Funeral Expenses

Families have several options to help pay for cremation or funeral costs. These alternatives can reduce financial stress when Social Security benefits fall short.

Prepaid Cremation Services

Prepaid cremation lets families lock in today’s prices and avoid future cost increases. You pay in advance for cremation services, often through a funeral provider or dedicated plan.

These funds are set aside and used later, helping survivors avoid last-minute expenses. Planning ahead also removes uncertainty and reduces the burden on loved ones. Learn about prepaid cremation options with After.

VA and State Funeral Assistance

Veterans may qualify for funeral and cremation benefits. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers burial allowances to eligible service members and their families.

These funds may help cover cremation, transportation, or burial in a national cemetery. Some states also provide funeral assistance for low-income residents. Each program has different eligibility rules and benefit amounts.

Life Insurance and Final Expense Policies

Life insurance and final expense policies provide money to pay for funeral costs. Some policies are small and designed specifically for end-of-life expenses.

These are often easier to qualify for and faster to access than larger life insurance payouts. It’s important to confirm your policy covers cremation or funeral expenses.

Crowdfunding Platforms

Many families use online fundraising platforms like GoFundMe. Crowdfunding helps raise money quickly, especially after unexpected deaths.

Friends, family, and community members can donate to ease financial pressure. You can also use platforms like Lilypay.

Here at AFter, we work with Lilypay that allows you to take out a flexible loan for the cremation and then use crowdfunding to cover that loan. Go to the Lilypay Community Gardens pages to easily set up your profile for receiving donations.

Medicaid and Local Non-Profit Programs

Some states offer funeral assistance through Medicaid or county programs. These programs usually serve people who die without assets or whose families cannot pay.

Support may include direct cremation, basic burial, or partial reimbursement. Non-profits and charities like Catholic Charities and The TEARS Foundation also provide help in specific situations, such as infant or child loss.

For more options, read about charities that help cover funeral costs.

Social Security: What to Expect

Social Security does not pay cremation providers or funeral homes. The $255 payment is the only funeral-related benefit available, and it doesn’t go out automatically. Survivors must apply for it, and eligibility rules are strict.

Most families still face significant out-of-pocket expenses, even if they qualify for the benefit.

Steps to Take After a Loved One Dies

You should notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) as soon as possible after a death. If the deceased received a benefit for the month they passed or after, you must return that payment.

You must apply directly by calling Social Security or visiting your local SSA office to claim the $255 benefit. Online applications are not available.

Gather the necessary documents early. You’ll need the Social Security numbers of the deceased and applicant, a certified death certificate, and proof of relationship, such as a marriage or birth certificate.

How to Avoid Financial Surprises

Most funeral providers expect full payment within a few days. Even when you get approval for Social Security benefits, they might take a long time to arrive. Families who don’t plan ahead may face unexpected bills during an already difficult time.

To prepare, compare cremation prices in advance and explore your options. Burial insurance or small life insurance policies can help cover costs. If you're unsure what benefits or aid you qualify for, contact the SSA or ask about local assistance programs.

Pay Once. Skip the Red Tape Later.

There might be many questions for you to tackle when you lose a loved one. Will Social Security really pay for any part of the cremation fees? Does Social Security help with funeral expenses?

Social Security offers limited support, and most funeral bills arrive before benefits do.

After’s clear pricing and flexible options let you move forward with peace of mind. Not sure where to start? Our care specialists can walk you through every step and answer your questions with zero pressure.

Explore cremation options with After.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Does Social Security Actually Pay for When Someone Dies?

Social Security pays a one-time death benefit of $255 to a qualified survivor. This benefit does not cover funeral, burial, or cremation costs. It’s meant to help with final expenses, but families typically need other financial resources to cover the full cost of arrangements.

Who Qualifies for the Social Security Burial Benefit?

A current or former spouse, dependent child, or parent qualifies for the Social Security burial benefit if they meet certain criteria. Survivors must apply within two years of the death. Eligibility depends on the survivor’s relationship to the deceased and their Social Security status.

Does Social Security Pay the Funeral Home Directly?

Social Security does not pay the funeral home directly. The $255 death benefit goes to an eligible survivor, not to any funeral provider or service. Families must arrange and pay for funeral or cremation services themselves.

How Do I Apply for the Death Benefit From Social Security?

You apply for the death benefit from Social Security by contacting your local SSA office in person or by phone. Online applications are not accepted. You’ll need documents such as the death certificate, Social Security numbers, and proof of relationship.

Does SSI Include Money for Cremation or Burial?

SSI does not include money for a cremation or burial. However, SSI recipients may set aside up to $1,500 in burial funds, which won’t affect their monthly benefit or eligibility. They must clearly mark these funds for funeral use.

How Fast Does Social Security Pay the Death Benefit?

Once approved, Social Security usually pays the death benefit within a few weeks. Delays can happen if documents are missing or incomplete.

What Are Other Ways to Pay for Cremation Besides Social Security?

Other ways to pay for cremation besides Social Security include prepaid cremation plans, life insurance, crowdfunding, and state or local aid programs. Some nonprofits and religious groups may also help families cover funeral costs.