Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance Resources in Tennessee

Last updated September 11, 2026

Losing a loved one is one of life's hardest moments, and the financial pressure of funeral and burial costs can make an already painful time even more overwhelming. Tennessee residents may have access to several programs that can help cover or offset these expenses, depending on the circumstances of the death and the family's financial situation. Knowing where to start is often the biggest hurdle, and this guide is designed to point you toward real, accessible help.

Eligibility and available funding vary by county, income level, and the deceased person's history with programs like Medicaid or military service. Because local resources change frequently, calling 2-1-1 Tennessee (dial 2-1-1 or text your ZIP code to 898-211) is one of the best first steps — trained specialists can identify county-level burial assistance programs, community funds, and nonprofit resources that may not be widely advertised.

If the deceased was enrolled in TennCare (Tennessee's Medicaid program) or received Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or if the death was work-related, specific benefit programs may apply. Veterans and their spouses may qualify for burial benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Exploring all of these avenues before making final arrangements — even just a day or two — can make a meaningful difference.

Key programs in Tennessee

Tennessee County General Assistance / Indigent Burial Programs

Tennessee state law (T.C.A. § 5-7-108) requires county governments to provide for the burial or cremation of indigent residents who die without sufficient funds or family able to pay. Each county administers this differently, and reimbursement amounts and eligibility rules vary by county.

How to access: Contact your county's Department of Human Services office or the county mayor's office as soon as possible after the death. The funeral home may also help initiate the request. Call 2-1-1 Tennessee (dial 2-1-1) to find the specific contact for your county.

Social Security Administration (SSA) Lump-Sum Death Payment

A one-time payment of $255 may be available to the surviving spouse or, in some cases, eligible dependent children of a deceased worker who had sufficient Social Security work credits. While modest, it can contribute toward burial costs.

How to access: Apply through the Social Security Administration by calling 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) or visiting your nearest SSA field office. Applications must generally be filed within two years of the death.

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

Eligible veterans may receive a burial allowance, plot or interment allowance, and — for those who qualify — burial in a national cemetery at no cost to the family. Tennessee is home to several national cemeteries. The VA also provides a burial flag and Presidential Memorial Certificate at no charge.

How to access: Apply online at va.gov/burials-memorials or call the VA National Cemetery Scheduling Office at 1-800-535-1117. The Tennessee State Veterans' Services offices can also assist; find your local office through the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services at tn.gov/veterans.

TennCare (Tennessee Medicaid) Estate and Funeral Considerations

TennCare does not directly pay funeral costs, but if the deceased was a TennCare enrollee, the program may have a claim against the estate (estate recovery). Understanding this process early can help families avoid surprises. Separately, if the deceased received SSI, the Social Security Administration may be a resource (see SSA above).

How to access: For questions about TennCare estate recovery, contact the Tennessee Bureau of TennCare at 1-800-342-3145 or visit tn.gov/tenncare. A social worker or benefits counselor through your local Area Agency on Aging can also help explain implications.

Eldercare Locator / Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)

Area Agencies on Aging across Tennessee can connect older adults and their families with local end-of-life planning resources, advance directive assistance, and referrals to county burial assistance or nonprofit funeral funds — especially for seniors on fixed incomes.

How to access: Call the national Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 (free, weekdays) or visit eldercare.acl.gov to find your local Tennessee AAA. Services are free and available statewide.

Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance resources for Tennessee

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.

1-800-959-8277
Visit

The Dougy Center

Nationwide

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

1-866-775-5683
Visit
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