The COVID-19 pandemic has brought overwhelming grief to many families. At FEMA, our mission is to help people before, during and after disasters. We are dedicated to helping ease some of the financial stress and burden caused by the virus.

Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, FEMA will provide financial assistance for COVID-19-related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020.

Funeral homes/directors are unable to file claims on behalf of our families.

If you wish to apply, please call 844-684-6333. Call center hours of operation are (Monday-Friday 9am-9pm Eastern) ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE STARTED BY PHONE. FEMA expects application phone calls to take approximately 20 minutes. And no on-line applications will be accepted.

• The death must have occurred in the United States, U.S. Territories, or the District of Columbia.
• The death certificate must indicate that the death was attributed to COVID-19.
• The applicant must be a U.S. Citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after January 20, 2020.
• Only one application per decedent is allowed. Only one applicant can apply per family. If more than one family member paid toward a funeral, the family will need to have one person be the lead applicant.
• Applicants are encouraged to gather the necessary documents before this date and before they call FEMA to apply. This will expedite the application process.
• Have an official death certificate that attributes the death directly or indirectly to COVID-19 and shows that the death occurred in the U.S. It is permissible, and FEMA prefers, the applicant use a copy of a death certificate.