Before you start your claim for Funeral Expenses Payment, make sure you have everything to hand. These are the main requirements and the step-by-step guide to claiming through the official channel.
Check eligibility on the official page →
Read the requirements and steps below first, so you can make your claim on the official page in one go.
Claiming is always free. Never pay anyone to make a claim for you.
Documents ready = faster claim
Claim within 6 monthsMeans-testedPaid to you or director
📋 Requirements
- Qualifying benefit: You or your partner must get a qualifying benefit such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit.
- Relationship: You must have been the partner, close relative or close friend of the deceased.
- Location: The funeral must take place in the UK, the EEA or Switzerland.
- Time limit: Claim within 6 months of the funeral.
🚀 How to claim, step by step
- Check eligibility on GOV.UK
- Get an itemised bill or estimate from the funeral director
- Claim online, by phone or by post
- Receive the decision and payment
The payment usually won't cover the full cost of a funeral; eligibility is decided by DWP.
Start your claim on the official page →
General information only. We are not part of the government. Claiming is free on the official page — you never need to pay anyone to claim.