How to Apply for FEMA Funeral Funds up to $7,000—the Rules Explained

American families will soon be able to claim reimbursements for funeral costs for loved ones who died from the coronavirus.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will allocate $2 billion, or up to $7,000 per family, for COVID-19-related funeral expenses that were incurred after January 20, 2020.

The funds come from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act and the American Rescue Plan. Although the cost depends from state to state, funeral expenses can be a considerable financial burden on grieving families.

Detroit-based Thompson Funeral Home administrator Edward Thompson told the Detroit Free Press a typical service could cost between $3,200 to $5,200, not including the cemetery cost.

People with COVID-19 funeral expenses have been advised to gather and keep their documentation as further details of the process are finalized, FEMA said on its website, adding that a toll-free phone number for those wanting information would be available soon.