The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has released the details of its policy for the reimbursement of expenses used to pay for the funerals of those whose death was due to COVID-19, occurring on or after January 20, 2020. This policy states that they ” will provide financial assistance for funeral costs specifically related to Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) for funeral expenses at 100 percent federal cost share.”
The application process will open in early April and up to $9,000 can be claimed for expenses associated with the funeral. The application can only be opened by calling FEMA, although the number for this has not yet been confirmed. An application can only be opened by a US citizen who incurred some of the funeral expenses. Funds can be claimed for funeral expenses of non-US citizens, and co-applicants do not need to be citizens either – only the primary applicant must be a US citizen.
Please note, that funeral homes are under no obligation to be involved in the application process, either formally or indirectly. AFDA is providing this information to you in case you wish to aid families who are seeking this reimbursement. There is no legal requirement or consent from funeral homes needed, however we are aware that many of you will be being asked about these funds and this information is here for you to use to serve your communities as you wish.