Notifying the FEMA when someone dies

FEMA provides financial assistance for funeral and burial expenses when a death is caused directly or indirectly by a presidentially declared disaster. Covered expenses include casket or urn, burial plot, marker, interment services, funeral ceremonies, clergy fees, transfer of remains, and up to 5 certified death certificates. The amount is subject to annual limits and the overall ONA household cap.

Any U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who paid or is responsible for disaster-related funeral expenses can apply. The applicant does not need to be a family member. The deceased person does not need to have been a U.S. citizen.

FEMA does not cover obituary notices, flowers or floral arrangements, printed programs or memorial materials, catering or food services, transportation of attendees to services, tips or gratuities, or pre-disaster debt obligations.

Yes, but FEMA cannot duplicate benefits from other sources. If insurance, Social Security, VA burial benefits, or other sources cover part of the funeral costs, FEMA can assist with the remaining unmet expenses. You must document all other assistance received.

You have 60 days from the date of the FEMA determination letter to file an appeal. Appeals should include any additional documentation that supports your claim. Track your application status at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362.

FEMA accepts an official death certificate or a signed statement from a medical examiner, coroner, or cemetery/funeral home representative confirming the death was caused directly or indirectly by the disaster. Deaths do not need to have occurred during the disaster itself — indirect causes such as loss of medical equipment, delayed medical care, or unsafe conditions after the disaster may qualify.