The Federal Emergency Management Agency on Monday opened applications for financial assistance for funeral costs incurred as a result of COVID-19.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has brought overwhelming grief to many families. At FEMA, our mission is to help people before, during and after disasters. We are dedicated to helping ease some of the financial stress and burden caused by the virus," the agency said in a statement.
Individuals are able to receive up to $9,000 per funeral, with a maximum of $35,500 for people who incurred the cost of multiple funerals.
Expenses eligible for payment include caskets, urns, clergy services, transfer of remains, cremation, burial plot and more.
Individuals are still eligible for funeral assistance even if they have recently received other disaster assistance, such as storm damage aid.
Applications are only being accepted by phone at 844-684-6333 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. More information on required documentation and other frequently asked questions is available on the FEMA website.
