Apply for coverage of funeral expenses
The Social Services Office covers the necessary funeral expenses if the next of kin or the estate are unable to pay them.
How to proceed
- 1
Submit the request before placing the order
Submit this to the social services office, preferably before signing the funeral contract.
- 2
Submit a cost estimate
From the funeral home: limited to a "simple, customary" funeral.
- 3
Approval and Payment
Directly to the funeral home or for reimbursement.
Required documents
- Death certificateMandatory
- Funeral Director's EstimateMandatory
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 3 weeks
Official: max. approx. 1 months
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • Application submitted only after payment has been made or the funeral director has been hired
- • No quotes were obtained
Common reasons for rejection
- • The obligated person has sufficient income/assets
- • The costs exceed the scope of a standard local funeral
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Persons who are obligated to arrange a funeral (e.g., next of kin) and for whom the costs are not reasonable.
Income limit
Income and asset test in accordance with SGB XII; financial need is required.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 3 weeks
Success rate
approx. 60.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Application submitted only after payment has been made or the funeral director has been hired
- •No quotes were obtained
Common reasons for rejection
- •The obligated person has sufficient income/assets
- •The costs exceed the scope of a standard local funeral
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.