Pandemic funeral: where and how to get funeral allowance in New York

In connection with the coronavirus pandemic in New York, the rules for paying funeral benefits have changed. Read about how to apply for compensation for a funeral and who can count on support. The source of information - City Hall website.

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New conditions for obtaining funeral allowance

In connection with the coronavirus pandemic, the NYC HRA Office of Burial Services has revised the terms for providing assistance to those in need of burial for close relatives.

In particular, two new rules were issued prescribing:

• Increase the burial payment from $ 900 to $ 1 and increase the maximum allowable level of funeral expenses from $ 700 to $ 1.
• Extension of the period during which you can apply for up to 120 days from the date of death of the person.

Under the new rules, applications received after March 12, 2020 will be considered, regardless of the immigration status of the applicant.

Application Procedure

The Human Resources Administration (HRA) and the Office of Burial Services (OBS) help cover funeral expenses for New Yorkers in need. An application can be submitted by both persons who wish to reimburse the costs of an already held funeral, as well as persons who are only planning a funeral for a loved one.

Under current emergency rule, OBS can pay a maximum of $ 1700 for the burial of a deceased (including burial, cremation, or burial of cremation ash) to a relative, friend, or authorized representative of the deceased.

In case the invoice for the funeral exceeds the current limit of $ 3400, the cost of the burial, digging of the grave or cremation site will be deducted from the total invoice. If the remaining invoice amount is less than the above limit, the burial allowance will be approved.

Who can get funeral allowance?

The allowance is provided for the burial of dead people who had low income during their lifetime and did not have the resources or assets that can now be used to pay for the funeral. Documents confirming the receipt of social benefits or assistance from the HRA (financial assistance, free food or benefits) can serve as confirmation of the status of poverty.

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