April 15, 2021

NYSUT Disaster Relief Fund shares news of FEMA COVID-19 funeral benefit

Source:  FEMA
Memorial Candle

If you incurred funeral expenses for an individual who died from COVID-19, you could be eligible for funeral assistance from FEMA for up to $9,000 per funeral.  Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID-19 related funeral expenses incurred after Jan. 20, 2020. 

Applications are accepted by phone ONLY by calling 844-684-6333. Phone lines are open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST Monday through Friday. Before calling, gather the following information:

  1. A copy of the death certificate, attributing the cause of death to COVID-19
  2. Documentation of the funeral expenses incurred
  3. Documentation of funds received from other sources (including burial/funeral insurance policies)

For more information on who is eligible to apply, how to apply, what expenses qualify and more, please visit the FEMA website.