This is the Northern Ireland version, run by the Department for Communities. The benefit list and the Republic of Ireland rule are what make it different.
Quick facts
- Covers
- Burial or cremation fees, plus up to £1000 for other costs
- Benefits
- Income-related ESA, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit or Universal Credit
- Claim by
- Within six months of the funeral
- Funeral in the Republic
- Counts if the person normally lived in NI
- Paid to
- Usually the funeral director
- Repay
- Possibly, from the person's estate
Who can get it — the full rules
You must be responsible for the funeral, and you or your partner must get one of these:
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Universal Credit
- Support for Mortgage Interest loan payments
You must also be the partner, a close relative or close friend of the person who died, or the parent of a child who died. If a close relative is not on a qualifying benefit, you may not get the payment.
What it pays for
- Burial fees and the right to a burial plot
- Cremation fees, including the doctor's certificate
- Up to £1000 for other costs, such as the funeral director, flowers or the coffin
- Travel to arrange or go to the funeral
- Moving the body within the UK, for the part of the journey over 50 miles
If the person had a pre-paid funeral plan, you only get help for things the plan does not cover.
A funeral in the Republic of Ireland
The funeral usually has to take place in the UK. It can take place in the Republic of Ireland if the person who died normally lived in Northern Ireland. Different rules apply otherwise.
How to claim and repayment
Apply within six months of the funeral, even if you are still waiting on a decision about a qualifying benefit. The date your form reaches a Department for Communities office is the date that counts.
The money usually goes to the funeral director if they have not been paid. You may have to repay some or all of it from the estate of the person who died.
Common questions
How much is the Funeral Expenses Payment in Northern Ireland?
It covers burial or cremation fees, plus up to £1000 for other funeral costs. The total depends on your circumstances.
Can I get a Funeral Expenses Payment if the funeral is in the Republic of Ireland?
Yes, if the person who died normally lived in Northern Ireland.
How long do I have to claim?
Six months from the funeral.
Do I have to pay it back?
You might have to repay some or all of it from the estate of the person who died.