We are very sorry if you are reading this because of your own loss. The claim is one phone call, and it takes about ten minutes.
Quick facts
- Amount
- £3,441, one-off
- Who for
- A child under 18, or stillborn after 24 weeks
- Income test
- None
- Benefits needed
- No
- Claim by
- Within six months of the funeral
- Tax
- Not taxable, does not affect benefits
Who can get it — the full rules
You can claim if you have taken responsibility for the funeral costs, and:
- the child had not reached their 18th birthday, or was stillborn after the 24th week of pregnancy
- the service or ceremony was held in Northern Ireland
- the burial or cremation is anywhere in the UK or the Republic of Ireland
- you claim within six months of the funeral
What you earn and what you have saved do not affect it. You do not need to be getting benefits.
How it is paid
The £3,441 can be paid to the funeral director, to you, or split between both. It is not taxable and does not affect any benefits you get.
You cannot get it if you have already had a payment from another Government funeral or bereavement scheme, including a Health and Social Care Trust arranged cremation.
How to claim
Call the Bereavement Service helpline. The claim should take no longer than ten minutes. You can also download an application form from nidirect.
Common questions
How much is the Child Funeral Fund in Northern Ireland?
A one-off payment of £3,441.
Is the Child Funeral Fund means tested?
No. Your income and savings do not affect it, and you do not need to be on benefits.
Can the burial be in the Republic of Ireland?
Yes, if the service or ceremony is held in Northern Ireland. The burial or cremation can be anywhere in the UK or the Republic of Ireland.
How long do I have to claim?
Six months from the date of the funeral.