Funeral Support Payments pays out £22.4 million since launch

£22.4 million has been paid to support people in Scotland facing bereavement, according to the latest figures published today.

From 16 September 2019 to 31 December 2021, 19,075 applications to the Scottish Government’s Funeral Support Payment were received. The average value of payment issued in this financial year so far is £1,805.

Funeral Support Payment is open to those who are on certain tax credits or benefits and helps people pay towards the costs of a funeral of a loved one.

The payment will cover the burial or cremation costs, and transport, as well as help towards other things like funeral director’s fees, a coffin or flowers.

Pre-Covid, telephone based applications were higher than online. In December 2021, the figures show that more people are now choosing to apply online with 58% of applications made online, 41% by telephone and 1% by paper.

Minister for Social Security, Ben Macpherson said:

“If people on low-incomes find themselves in the devastating position of facing a bereavement and are struggling to pay for the costs of a funeral, I would encourage them to check if they might be eligible for Funeral Support Payment and apply.

“Everyone should get the financial support they are entitled to and people can apply up to 6 months after the date of their loved one’s funeral.

“It is important that we prioritise supporting families through one of their greatest times of need. Like all our benefits, we are committed to making sure people have an improved experience that is straightforward, accessible and compassionate. Clients can choose to apply online, via a paper application form or by calling our specially trained bereavement team.”

Background:

• Full details on the statistics are available to view at Social Security Scotland - Funeral Support Payment: high level statistics to 31 December 2021
• Funeral Support Payment helps pay for funeral costs if you live in Scotland. The payment can be used towards funeral costs for a baby, child or adult. This includes babies who were stillborn
• People can apply for support up to 6 months after the date of their loved one’s funeral
• Those eligible for the Funeral Support Payment must be living in Scotland, have had the nearest relationship to the person who has died, be financially responsible for the funeral and be on a qualifying benefit or tax credit.
• Clients can choose to apply online, via a paper application form or by calling Social Security Scotland’s specially trained bereavement team free on 0800 182 2222
• More information can be found online at https://www.mygov.scot/funeral-support-payment/