£17 million of Funeral Support Payments paid out since launch

Since launch, Social Security Scotland has paid out £17 million to people in Scotland who have lost a loved one – new data out today has revealed.

From 16 September 2019 to 30 June 2021, 14,700 applications for Funeral Support Payment were made. These payments can help with the costs of a burial or cremation and expenses for things such as a coffin.

The average value of payment issued in the 2021/22 financial year so far is £1,804, an increase from an average of £1,791 in 2020/21.

Funeral Support Payment is open to people who are on certain tax credits or benefits, are responsible for paying for a funeral and meet the other criteria.

People can apply after the person has died until 6 months after the date of their loved one’s funeral.

People can choose to apply online, via a paper application form or by speaking to a specially trained advisor working within the dedicated Funeral Support Payment team.

To check eligibility and apply visit mygov.scot or call 0800 182 2222.