The fees for the burial or cremation can be claimed directly by the burial or cremation provider. You should not be charged.
Quick facts
- Who
- A child under 18, or a stillborn baby after 24 weeks
- Covers
- Burial or cremation fees
- Coffin
- Up to £300
- Means-tested?
- No
- Claim within
- 6 months of the funeral
What it covers
The Children’s Funeral Fund for England can help pay for the:
- burial fees
- cremation fees, including the cost of a doctor’s certificate
- coffin, shroud or casket (up to a cost of £300)
The burial or cremation must take place in England.
How claiming works
If you are using a funeral director, you do not need to submit any claims yourself.
The burial or cremation provider can claim for the fees of a burial or cremation. The money will be paid directly to them.
Claims must be made within 6 months of the funeral.
Other funeral costs
If you have other funeral expenses, you might be able to apply for Funeral Expenses Payment to cover them. You or your partner must be getting certain benefits. See Funeral Expenses Payment.
In Northern Ireland, see the Child Funeral Fund in Northern Ireland.
Common questions
What does the Children's Funeral Fund pay for?
Burial or cremation fees, a doctor’s certificate for cremation, and up to £300 towards a coffin, shroud or casket.
Is it means-tested?
No. What you earn or how much you have in savings will not affect what you get.
Do I have to claim it myself?
Not if you use a funeral director. The provider and funeral director claim directly.
Is there a time limit?
Claims must be made within 6 months of the funeral.