Struggling financially after bereavement? Where to get help

Understanding the costs of bereavement

Funeral expenses, legal fees, and reduced household income are some of the immediate financial pressures people face after a bereavement.

In the UK, these costs can vary depending on the type of service, your location and the funeral director you use. According to the SunLife Cost of Dying Report 2026, the average cost of a simple attended funeral is around £3,828, rising to approximately £5,140 when additional send-off costs such as flowers, catering and a wake are included. Cremations are generally less expensive than burials, and costs can differ significantly across different parts of the country.

If there was no financial plan in place, this can leave families struggling to cover costs.

Financial help for funeral costs

If you are responsible for arranging a funeral and struggling to pay, you may be eligible for support:

• Funeral Expenses Payment (England, Scotland, and Wales): if you receive certain benefits, you may be able to claim this payment to help cover burial or cremation costs, travel expenses, and other funeral-related costs. Check your eligibility.
• Funeral Support Payment (Scotland only): available for those on low incomes, this provides financial assistance to cover funeral costs for people in Scotland. Find out who can apply and when.
• Bereavement Support Payment: if your spouse or civil partner has passed away, you may qualify for this benefit to help with living costs.
• Local Council assistance: some local councils provide Public Health Funerals for those who cannot afford funeral costs. You will need to visit your local council website to learn more.

Managing household finances after a loss

Losing a partner or family member can significantly impact household income. Here’s where you can seek help:

• Check your benefits entitlement. You may be eligible for Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction.
• Contact creditors and service providers. If you’re struggling with bills, inform creditors, mortgage providers, or utility companies. Many have bereavement support teams to help with payment plans or temporary relief. You may want to seek the help of a money adviser when negotiating.
• Grant support. Charities like Turn2us, Macmillan Cancer Support, and The Royal British Legion offer financial aid to those in need.

Dealing with debts after bereavement

If you or the deceased had debts, it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities.

• Joint debts remain the responsibility of the surviving borrower. Speak to creditors about possible repayment plans.
• Debts solely in the deceased’s name are typically settled from their estate. If there is no estate, these debts may not need to be paid.
• Seek free debt advice. Organisations like StepChange, Citizens Advice, and National Debtline can provide free guidance on managing debts.

Emotional & practical support

Financial worries are just one part of grief. Emotional support is just as important. There are many charities and organisations that provide bereavement counselling and practical guidance, including:

• Cruse Bereavement Support - offers free support and counselling.
• Marie Curie Bereavement Support Service - provides guidance on end-of-life and bereavement care.
• Sue Ryder Grief Support - offers online and in-person bereavement support groups.

 

Navigating financial difficulties after bereavement can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone.

There are resources available to help with funeral costs, benefits, debt advice, and emotional support. If you’re struggling, reach out to the relevant organisations and seek the support you need to ease the burden during this difficult time.