Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance Resources in New Hampshire

Last updated September 9, 2026

Losing a loved one is one of life's most difficult moments, and the financial burden of funeral and burial costs can add overwhelming stress to an already painful time. New Hampshire residents may have access to several forms of assistance depending on their circumstances, including help through state and federal programs, veteran benefits, and community-based organizations. The first step is often understanding which agency or program fits your specific situation.

If you are unsure where to start, calling 2-1-1 New Hampshire (dial 2-1-1 or visit 211nh.org) connects you with trained specialists who can identify local funeral assistance funds, nonprofit burial aid, and other resources tailored to your location within the state. They maintain an up-to-date database of community programs that no static guide can fully capture.

For families with very limited income, New Hampshire's Division of Family Assistance within the NH Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) may provide a burial assistance benefit for individuals who would otherwise be unable to afford funeral expenses. Eligibility and benefit amounts are determined by the state and may vary, so contacting DHHS directly or through 2-1-1 is the best way to confirm current guidelines and apply promptly, as requests are typically time-sensitive.

Key programs in New Hampshire

2-1-1 New Hampshire

Connects callers to local funeral assistance funds, nonprofit burial aid, grief support groups, and other end-of-life resources anywhere in New Hampshire.

How to access: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone, available 24/7, or search online at 211nh.org. Interpretation services are available.

NH DHHS Division of Family Assistance – Burial Assistance

Provides limited financial assistance toward burial or cremation costs for deceased individuals whose families meet low-income eligibility criteria and who lack sufficient funds to cover expenses.

How to access: Contact your local NH DHHS District Office as soon as possible after a death occurs, as applications are time-sensitive. Find your district office at dhhs.nh.gov or by calling 2-1-1.

VA Burial Benefits (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)

Eligible veterans may qualify for burial allowances, a burial flag, and Presidential Memorial Certificate. Veterans buried in a national cemetery may receive a grave marker at no cost.

How to access: Contact the NH State Veterans Cemetery at (603) 796-2477, the VA regional office, or apply online at va.gov/burials-memorials. The NH Office of Veterans Services at (603) 624-9230 can also guide families.

Social Security Administration – Lump-Sum Death Benefit

A one-time payment of $255 may be available to an eligible surviving spouse or dependent child of a deceased Social Security-insured worker.

How to access: Apply by calling SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visiting your local SSA office. Apply as soon as possible after the death, as there are strict filing deadlines.

FEMA Funeral Assistance (COVID-19, if still applicable) / FEMA Disaster-Related Funeral Aid

FEMA may provide funeral assistance when a death is linked to a presidentially declared disaster. This has included COVID-19-related deaths under specific programs. Check current program availability as eligibility periods change.

How to access: Visit disasterassistance.gov or call FEMA's helpline at 1-800-621-3362 to determine whether any active funeral assistance programs apply to your situation.

Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance resources for New Hampshire

GriefShare

Nationwide

Grief recovery support groups meeting in communities nationwide.

Visit

TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors)

Nationwide

24/7 support for families grieving the death of a military loved one.

Visit

The Dougy Center

Nationwide

Support for children, teens, and families grieving a death, plus provider resources.

Visit