Knowledge Centre · 06
Funeral financial support
Worry about cost should never get in the way of a dignified funeral. Several forms of support exist, and we will talk you through what may apply. This is for guidance — eligibility is decided by the relevant office.
Quick answer
Help with funeral costs in Northern Ireland includes the Funeral Expenses Payment (for people on certain benefits), Bereavement Support Payment, and the Child Funeral Fund. Ask your funeral director for a clear written estimate, and check eligibility with the relevant office.
What happens, step by step
Check the Funeral Expenses Payment
If you receive certain benefits, you may get help towards funeral costs. See the guidance and claim forms below.
Consider Bereavement Support Payment
If your husband, wife or civil partner has died, you may be entitled to this payment.
Children's funerals
The Child Funeral Fund can help with the cost of a child's funeral, regardless of income.
Talk to us about costs
Whatever your situation, we will give you a clear written estimate and help you plan within your means.
Resources & official links
nidirect
Funeral Expenses Payment
Help with funeral costs if you receive certain benefits. Who qualifies and how to claim.
nidirect
Funeral Expenses Payment — application forms
Download the claim forms for the Funeral Expenses Payment.
nidirect
Bereavement Support Payment
Support for those whose husband, wife or civil partner has died.
nidirect
Apply for Bereavement Support Payment
Start your Bereavement Support Payment application.
nidirect
Child Funeral Fund
Help with the cost of a funeral for a child, regardless of income.
nidirect
Child Funeral Fund claim form (CFF1)
The CFF1 claim form for the Child Funeral Fund.
nidirect
Financial help for the bereaved
An overview of the financial support available after a death.
MoneyHelper
How much does a funeral cost?
What makes up the cost of a funeral, and how to keep control of it.
MoneyHelper
Help paying for a funeral
Where to turn if you are struggling to meet funeral costs.
MoneyHelper
Planning and paying for your funeral
Impartial guidance on planning ahead and paying for a funeral.
Need help now?
If someone has died or you are unsure what to do next, David Crymble & Sons Funeral Directors are available 24 hours a day. We can guide you step by step — whether the death has happened at home, in hospital, in a care home, or elsewhere.
Frequently asked questions
Who can get help with funeral costs?
Help such as the Funeral Expenses Payment is usually for people receiving certain benefits. Eligibility is decided by the relevant office — the links here explain the rules and how to apply.
Is there help for a child's funeral?
Yes — the Child Funeral Fund can help with the cost of a child's funeral regardless of income, and we never charge our professional fee for a child's funeral.
What if I am still worried about money?
Please talk to us. We will be honest about costs, give a written estimate, and help you find an option that is right for your family.
Can I get help before the funeral takes place?
Some support is claimed around the time of the funeral. Tell us your situation early and we will help you plan and point you to the right guidance.
Is there help with the cost of a child's funeral?
Yes. The Child Funeral Fund can help regardless of income, and we never charge our professional fee for a baby or child's funeral.
Related guides
Last reviewed: June 2026 · Reviewed by: David Crymble & Sons
Sources: official guidance from NI Direct, HSC NI, MoneyHelper, Marie Curie, Cruse and the relevant councils, where applicable.
This page is for general guidance only. Requirements can change, so please check with the relevant official organisation or contact David Crymble & Sons for help.