Quick answer
Funeral homes must give you an itemized price list under the FTC's Funeral Rule, and you can buy only what you want, including a casket or urn from somewhere else. For help paying, check Social Security's one-time $255 death payment to an eligible spouse or child, VA burial benefits for veterans, FEMA funeral help if the death was caused by a declared disaster, and county indigent burial programs through 211.
Help that may be available
| Source | Who it is for |
|---|---|
| Social Security lump-sum death payment | A one-time $255 to a surviving spouse or eligible child; survivors may also get monthly benefits |
| VA burial benefits | Eligible veterans: burial allowances, a free headstone or marker, and burial in a national cemetery |
| FEMA funeral assistance | Deaths caused by a presidentially declared disaster, when the program is open for that event |
| County or city programs | Low-cost or indigent burial or cremation when the family cannot pay; rules vary |
| Employer, union or life insurance | Group life policies and union death benefits are often forgotten; check pay stubs and HR |
| Crime victim compensation | If the death was caused by a crime, state programs may cover funeral costs |
Your rights on price
Under the Funeral Rule, a funeral home must give you a written general price list, tell you prices by phone, and cannot require you to buy a package. You can supply your own casket or urn and the home cannot charge you a fee for doing so. Direct cremation or immediate burial is usually the lowest-cost option and must be offered.
Keep the bill down
Get at least two price lists, limit viewing hours, choose a simple service and ask about a memorial later. Ask the funeral home whether it accepts payment in installments.
Need to cover the cost now?
If benefits will not arrive before the funeral home needs payment, see what licensed lenders in your state can offer for a fixed-payment loan.
Common questions
Does Social Security pay for funerals?
Not directly. It pays a one-time $255 death payment to an eligible surviving spouse or child, and survivors may qualify for monthly benefits. The funeral home or SSA can help you report the death.
What if the family cannot pay for a funeral at all?
Many counties provide a basic burial or cremation when no one can pay. Call the county's human services office or 211, and tell the funeral home or coroner about your situation.
Can I buy a casket online?
Yes. The Funeral Rule lets you supply your own casket or urn, and the funeral home cannot refuse it or charge a fee for using it.
Where these facts come from
- FTC: the Funeral Rule
- Social Security Administration: lump-sum death payment and survivors benefits
- VA: burial benefits and memorial items
- FEMA: funeral assistance
- 211.org: local help with rent, food and bills
Sources checked October 10, 2026. Programs and rules change; confirm details with the agency or company before you act.
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