Federal funeral assistance available for those who lost loved ones to COVID-19
WASHINGTON, D.C. (WKBT) — The Federal Emergency Management Administration has begun accepting applications for funeral assistance for Wisconsinites who have lost loved ones to COVID-19, according to Rep. Ron Kind.
“No amount of money can heal the loss of a loved one. However, this grant program can help ease the unexpected financial strain Wisconsinites are facing as they are mourning their loved ones,” said Rep. Ron Kind.
The funding was included in the American Rescue Plan COVID-19 relief bill passed earlier this year. Wisconsinites who paid for funeral expenses after Jan. 20, 2020, for an individual whose death may have been caused by or was likely the result of COVID-19 can apply for up to $9,000 of assistance per funeral through FEMA’s dedicated call center at 844-684-6333; TTY 800-462-7585, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. No online applications will be accepted.
The applicant responsible for COVID-19 funeral expenses will need to provide the following information below when they call FEMA to register for assistance. FEMA recommends gathering this information ahead of the application process.
- Social Security number for the applicant and the deceased individual
- Date of birth for the applicant and the deceased individual
- Current mailing address for the applicant
- Current telephone number for the applicant
- Location or address where the deceased individual passed away
- Information about burial or funeral insurance policies
- Information about other funeral assistance received, such as donations
- CARES Act grants and assistance from voluntary organizations
- Routing and account number of the applicant’s checking or savings account (for direct deposit if requested)
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