Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance Resources in New Jersey
Last updated September 9, 2026
Losing a loved one is overwhelming, and the cost of a funeral or burial can add serious financial strain at an already painful time. New Jersey residents may be eligible for help through federal, state, and county programs that cover burial expenses, grief counseling, and end-of-life planning support. Knowing where to turn can make a meaningful difference in the days and weeks ahead.
Your first call should often be to 2-1-1 New Jersey (dial 2-1-1 or visit nj211.org), which maintains an up-to-date database of local emergency burial assistance funds, county welfare programs, and nonprofit bereavement services. Eligibility rules and available funding vary by county, so a 2-1-1 specialist can connect you with the most relevant options near you.
If the deceased received Medicaid, was a veteran, or died as a result of COVID-19, specific federal programs may cover a significant portion of funeral costs. Planning ahead — or helping a family member plan — can also reduce financial burden; New Jersey's network of Area Agencies on Aging can assist with advance directives, Medicaid spend-down planning, and connecting families to hospice and palliative care resources.
Key programs in New Jersey
FEMA Funeral Assistance (COVID-19)
Reimburses eligible families for funeral expenses for deaths attributed to COVID-19, up to federal program limits. Administered nationally by FEMA but applied for directly by families.
How to access: Call FEMA's dedicated COVID-19 Funeral Assistance line at 1-844-684-6333. You will need a death certificate listing COVID-19 as a cause or contributing factor, funeral receipts, and proof of the applicant's identity and Social Security number.
New Jersey County Board of Social Services – General Assistance Burial Aid
Each of New Jersey's 21 counties administers General Assistance, which may include emergency burial or cremation assistance for low-income families who cannot afford funeral costs. Benefit amounts and eligibility criteria vary by county.
How to access: Contact your county's Board of Social Services directly. If you are unsure of your county office, call 2-1-1 New Jersey (dial 2-1-1) or visit nj211.org to find the correct office and confirm current eligibility requirements.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) – Burial and Memorial Benefits
Eligible veterans may receive a burial allowance, plot or interment allowance, and a government headstone or marker at no cost. Veterans buried in a national cemetery receive many services free of charge. The VA National Cemetery Scheduling Office manages interments at New Jersey's two national cemeteries.
How to access: Call the VA at 1-800-827-1000 or visit va.gov/burials-memorials. New Jersey veterans can also contact the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs at 1-888-865-8387 for state-level burial assistance programs and guidance.
Social Security Administration – Lump-Sum Death Payment
A one-time payment of $255 may be available to the surviving spouse or eligible child of a deceased Social Security-insured worker. While modest, it can offset a small portion of immediate costs.
How to access: Contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov. Apply as soon as possible after the death, as there are strict time limits. In-person assistance is available at New Jersey SSA field offices.
Eldercare Locator / Area Agencies on Aging – End-of-Life Planning Support
New Jersey's regional Area Agencies on Aging help older adults and their families with advance directive preparation, hospice referrals, Medicaid planning, and grief support resources — reducing financial and emotional burden before or after a death.
How to access: Call the national Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or visit eldercare.acl.gov to be connected to your local New Jersey Area Agency on Aging. Services are free and available statewide.
Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance resources for New Jersey
GriefShare
NationwideGrief recovery support groups meeting in communities nationwide.
TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors)
Nationwide24/7 support for families grieving the death of a military loved one.
The Dougy Center
NationwideSupport for children, teens, and families grieving a death, plus provider resources.
Other resources in New Jersey
- Housing Assistance in New Jersey
- Food Assistance in New Jersey
- Utility Assistance in New Jersey
- Transportation Assistance in New Jersey
- Mental Health Resources in New Jersey
- Domestic Violence Resources in New Jersey
- Disability Resources in New Jersey
- Veteran Resources in New Jersey
- Child & Family Assistance in New Jersey
- Senior Resources in New Jersey