Mar 17, 2021 - Health

FEMA to reimburse funeral costs for coronavirus victims

Jacob Knutson

Photos of people who died from COVID-19 projected on the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City on March 14. Photo: Noam Galai/Getty Images

The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced Wednesday it will reimburse the families of COVID-19 victims for funeral expenses incurred after Jan. 20, 2020.

Why it matters: The coronavirus has killed more than 537,000 people in the United States, inflicting emotional and financial pain on thousands of families across the country.

What they're saying: "The COVID-19 pandemic has brought overwhelming grief to many families," FEMA said.

"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 big picture: FEMA said it would start accepting applications in April and that applicants must have a death certificate, funeral expense documents and proof of funds received from other sources, like burial or funeral insurance.

To be eligible for funeral assistance, the death of a family member must have occurred in the U.S., including territories. The death certificate must indicate the death was attributed to COVID-19.

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FEMA to reimburse funeral costs for coronavirus victims

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