Arranging a funeral can be a significant financial burden for many Canadian families. With the average cost of a funeral ranging from $2,000 to over $15,000, many struggle to cover expenses when a loved one dies. However, government funeral assistance programs at both the federal and provincial levels are designed to help those who cannot afford end-of-life costs.
This guide will provide an overview of key financial support available through government agencies and community organizations across Canada. With proper planning and research into available assistance options, dignified funeral services can be accessible to all, regardless of financial constraints.
Federal Assistance Programs that can Assist with Funeral Costs in Canada
The following federal programs offer financial assistance to help offset funeral costs for eligible Canadian residents.
Canada Pension Plan Death Benefit
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) provides a one-time lump-sum death benefit payment to the estate of deceased CPP contributors. To qualify, the deceased must have contributed to the CPP for a minimum of 3 years.
The CPP death benefit provides a payment of $2,500 directly to the estate, which can be used to cover funeral costs. Payment is generally issued within 6 to 12 weeks after Service Canada receives the completed CPP death benefit application.
Survivors may also be eligible for additional monthly CPP survivor benefits, including:
- Survivor’s Pension – For widowed spouses or common-law partners of CPP contributors.
- Children’s Benefit – For dependent children of deceased CPP contributors.
These monthly pensions provide income replacement to eligible survivors.
Memorial Grant for First Responders
The Memorial Grant Program provides a $300,000 tax-free, direct maximum payment to the survivors of first responders who have died as a result of their duties. This one-time lump-sum grant recognizes the service and sacrifice of fallen first responders across Canada.
The Memorial Grant does not provide income replacement but can help beneficiaries with end-of-life expenses in the aftermath of a tragic line-of-duty death.
Veterans Affairs Canada – Funeral and Burial Program
Veterans Affairs Canada’s Funeral and burial assistance is delivered through the Last Post Fund and offers assistance with burial expenses for qualifying Veterans, who must meet criteria related to military service and financial need.
Benefits may cover service fees, caskets, burial plots and grave markers. There are also benefits to assist with the cost of transporting remains.
Eligible survivors must apply within one year of the Veteran’s date of death.
Indigenous Services Canada – Estate Services for First Nations
For First Nations people residing on reserve, Indigenous Services Canada provides a funeral benefit to cover basic costs like cremation services, caskets and burial plots.
The maximum payment is $5,000 from Indigenous Services Canada, with an additional contribution of up to $3,000 allowed from the family, community, or First Nations band. Overall costs cannot exceed $8,000.
What are the Provincial and Territorial Government Funeral Assistance Programs?
Most provinces and territories in Canada provide financial assistance to help cover funeral costs for lower-income residents through their social services departments. While programs vary, they generally pay for basic, dignified services like cremation, burial, caskets and grave plots if the deceased’s estate cannot cover expenses. Eligibility often depends on whether the deceased or their family were already recipients of social assistance before death.
British Columbia Funeral Assistance
The B.C. government provides a Supplement for Funeral Costs to ensure a dignified burial or cremation for eligible residents. There is no requirement for the deceased to have been on income assistance; eligibility is based on the estate having no immediate resources to pay.
The program covers costs based on set rates, including up to $1,285 for funeral provider services and up to $815 for other items like the casket and cemetery or cremation fees. Visit the B.C General Supplements and Programs Rate page for more information.
Alberta Funeral Assistance
Alberta’s Funeral Benefits program provides financial assistance for basic funeral services for low-income Albertans. Effective January 1, 2025, the program offers up to $4,510 for funeral expenses for cremation or burial. Eligibility extends to those who were on AISH or Income Support, as well as other low-income individuals whose estate and responsible survivors meet the financial requirements. Applications are made through the Government of Alberta.
Saskatchewan Funeral Assistance
The Saskatchewan Income Support (SIS) program provides Funeral Benefits for eligible low-income residents. The benefit consists of a flat rate of $2,100 for basic services, with potential supplements for additional costs such as embalming, services/rituals, and cremation fees. Eligibility is for SIS recipients or individuals whose estates lack sufficient resources. Applications are made through the Ministry of Social Services.
Manitoba Funeral Assistance
The Manitoba Employment and Income Assistance (EIA) program covers the costs of a basic, dignified funeral. The amount paid is based on an established agreement with the Manitoba Funeral Services Association, rather than a fixed public maximum. Eligibility is for individuals who were EIA participants or those whose financial situation at the time of death would have made them eligible. Applications are processed through the Department of Families.
Ontario Funeral Assistance
Ontario Works provides discretionary benefits to assist with funeral and burial costs, with local municipalities administering the program. The amounts vary by region. The key eligibility criterion is that the deceased’s estate lacks sufficient funds to cover the costs; the person did not need to be an Ontario Works recipient.
Quebec Funeral Assistance
Quebec’s special benefit for funeral expenses of up to $2,500 is available if the deceased person lacked the financial resources to pay for their own funeral. It covers essential costs such as cremation or burial, the casket or urn, body transportation and preparation, and other professional services. Applications are made through the Ministère de l’Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale.
New Brunswick Funeral Assistance
The NB Department of Social Development offers a Funeral Benefit to cover the costs of a basic funeral service. The amount paid is not a fixed maximum but is based on an agreement with the province’s funeral service associations. Eligibility is determined by assessing the financial resources of the deceased’s estate and their immediate family.
Nova Scotia Funeral Assistance
The Nova Scotia Department of Community Services provides assistance toward funeral expenses through its Special Needs Assistance program. Any costs exceeding this amount are the family’s responsibility. The program is open to any low-income resident whose family cannot afford the costs, and applicants are required to apply for the CPP Death Benefit to help offset the expenses.
Prince Edward Island Funeral Assistance
PEI’s Social Assistance Program for funeral expenses is provided if the deceased’s estate is insufficient to cover the costs. The program offers up to $5,000 for professional funeral services and up to an additional $1,000 for related expenses like the grave site and opening/closing fees. Eligibility is determined through a financial needs assessment by the Department of Social Development and Seniors.
Newfoundland and Labrador Funeral Assistance
As of July 2024, the Newfoundland and Labrador government significantly increased its Funeral Assistance Benefit, providing up to $5,000 for a funeral, plus up to $1,500 for additional expenses like music or transportation. This assistance is available to individuals who were receiving Income Support as well as other residents with low income and limited assets.
Yukon Funeral Assistance
The Yukon government provides assistance for basic funeral expenses through its Social Assistance program. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, which is assessed based on the resources of the deceased’s estate and responsible survivors. Applications are handled by the Department of Health and Social Services.
Northwest Territories Funeral Assistance
The NWT Funeral, Burial and Cremation Program is administered by the regional Health and Social Services Authorities (HSSAs). The maximum benefit amounts is established by the Deputy Minister. This assistance is for eligible residents whose estates have insufficient assets to cover the costs of a standard burial or cremation. Applications are processed through the Department of Education, Culture and Employment.
Nunavut Funeral Assistance
Funeral assistance in Nunavut is a complex system involving multiple government departments and Regional Inuit Associations, with no single program name or benefit amount. If the deceased was on income support, the Department of Family Services may assist. Regional Inuit Associations, such as the Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA) and Kitikmeot Inuit Association (KIA), offer critical bereavement travel programs to help transport family members to the funeral or to bring the deceased’s remains home. Eligibility for these programs requires the applicant or deceased to be an Inuk enrolled under the Nunavut Agreement.
Provincial Workers’ Compensation Survivor Benefits
If a family member dies from a workplace injury or illness, provincial and territorial workers’ compensation boards provide survivor benefits that are separate from social assistance. This can include:
- Payment for Funeral Expenses: A lump sum payment to cover burial/cremation costs, typically $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the province.
- Lump-Sum Survivor Payments: A one-time, tax-free payment to the surviving spouse and/or dependents.
- Monthly Survivor Pensions: Dependents receive ongoing monthly payments to replace the deceased worker’s income.
- Transportation Costs: Most boards will cover the costs to transport the deceased’s remains home for burial.
- Grief Counselling: Support services for the surviving family are also commonly provided.
Eligible family members must apply within a set time period, usually one year after their loved one’s work-related death. Contact the relevant provincial or territorial workers’ compensation board for details on coverage, eligibility, and the application process.
What are Other Financial Assistance Options?
If government programs don’t fully cover funeral costs, there are other sources of support families can pursue:
Crowdfunding campaigns: Crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe enable families to fundraise online to offset funeral expenses. Share the campaign on social media and within your community to meet fundraising goals.
Community organizations: Seek help from nonprofit organizations, cultural groups, religious institutions, unions, or other community networks that the deceased was part of.
Negotiate funeral costs; Funeral providers may work compassionately with families in need to lower service fees or arrange payment plans. Opting for direct cremation or immediate burial can reduce costs substantially compared to full-service funerals.
Life insurance: Check if the deceased had any active life insurance policies with a payout that can be used for funeral expenses.
Bank accounts, investments, and assets: Any bank account balances, investments, or property/assets left to beneficiaries can help pay funeral costs.
How to Apply for Government Funeral Assistance
Follow these steps when seeking government funeral assistance:
- Contact the relevant government department in your province or territory to ask about funeral cost coverage and eligibility requirements. Many have dedicated application forms for funeral assistance.
- Gather required documents, including proof of death, evidence of insufficient funds, and any other necessary paperwork. Applications often require extensive financial records and income verification.
- Apply as early as possible, before making any funeral arrangements. Most programs require approval first.
- Read all paperwork thoroughly and ensure applications are filled out accurately. Follow up with the department for status updates.
- If approved, keep receipts for all funeral home charges, cemetery fees, death certificates etc. Most programs reimburse families after services are rendered, rather than paying vendors directly.
- Be aware of time limitations. Most government funeral assistance programs require applying within 6-12 months of the death.
- Consider reapplication if denied initially. Department staff can explain reasons for denial and what additional evidence could strengthen an appeal.
With the financial help and guidance available through government agencies and community groups, Canadians can access dignified, affordable end-of-life services despite economic hardship. No one should have to choose between paying for basic needs and honouring a loved one with meaningful funeral arrangements.
Understanding government funeral assistance programs can help ease the financial burden of end-of-life arrangements, ensuring every family can provide a dignified farewell for their loved ones. For more insights on estate planning and related topics, explore these articles on Inheritance and End-of-Life Matters:
- How To Find An Obituary For A Specific Person in Canada
- DIY Will Kits and Templates in Canada
- What Happens If You Die Without A Will In Canada?
Recap: Key Points About Canadian Government Funeral Financial Assistance
- Besides government benefits, most provinces and territories fund reasonable funeral costs through social assistance programs for qualifying low-income residents.
- Additional sources of support include crowdfunding campaigns, community assistance, life insurance and negotiating costs with funeral providers.
- Apply for government funeral assistance before making arrangements and provide all required eligibility documentation.
- Affordable, dignified funeral options like direct cremation can cost thousands less than traditional full-service funerals.
Accessing available financial help, combined with selecting lower-cost services, can significantly ease the burden for Canadians struggling with end-of-life expenses. Even in the most difficult times, proper planning and resourcefulness can go a long way towards honouring life transitions with compassion and dignity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get financial help with funeral costs in Canada?
Most provinces offer funeral assistance through social services for lower-income residents. Federally, the CPP provides a death benefit, and Veterans Affairs has a funeral program. Charities and crowdfunding can also help.
Where do I apply for financial assistance for funeral expenses in Canada?
To find out about relevant programs and how to apply, contact your provincial or territorial social services department or the federal programs directly. Applications are typically submitted to the government department administering the funeral funding.
Why are funerals so expensive in Canada?
Key costs involved in funeral services include preparation of remains, caskets, cremation/burial fees, transport, funeral home staff, urns/headstones and cemetery plots. Restricted competition and requirements around handling of deceased drive up pricing.
When should I apply for government funeral assistance in Canada?
Apply as soon as possible after the death occurs, before making any funeral arrangements. Most programs require approval first and have time limitations, usually within 1 year of passing.
Do I qualify for financial help with funeral costs in Canada?
Eligibility varies but is largely based on financial need. Those on social assistance often qualify. Veterans, low-income seniors and Indigenous peoples may also be eligible based on criteria.
What costs are covered by government funeral funding in Canada?
Basic expenses like cremation, burial, caskets, transport of remains and grave plots are generally covered.
