WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) announced on April 15 that FEMA has begun accepting applications for funeral assistance for New Yorkers who have lost loved ones to COVID-19. This program was funded through the American Rescue Plan that Congresswoman Maloney helped pass.
“No amount of money can replace the loss of a loved one, but I hope that this program will help ease the financial strain on New Yorkers who have lost loved ones to the pandemic. These families are suffering, and I hope that by easing financial strain we allow these families to properly grieve,” said Rep. Maloney.
Background
How much aid can New Yorkers receive?
New Yorkers can apply for up to $9,000 of assistance per funeral.
Who can apply for assistance?
You may qualify if: You are a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who paid for funeral expenses after January 20, 2020, and the funeral expenses were for an individual whose death in the United States, territories, or the District of Columbia may have been caused by or was likely the result of COVID-19.
Individuals may apply for assistance for multiple funerals.
How do New Yorkers apply?
To apply, individuals must call FEMA’s dedicated call center at 844-684-6333; TTY 800-462-7585. The call center is open Monday-Friday from 9 AM-9 PM ET. No online applications will be accepted. Multilingual services will be available.
What information do New Yorkers need to provide?
The applicant responsible for COVID-19 funeral expenses will need to provide the following information when they call FEMA to register for assistance. FEMA recommends gathering this information ahead of the application process.
Social Security Numbers for both the applicant and the deceased individual
Date of birth for both the applicant and the deceased individual
Current mailing address for the applicant
Current telephone number for the applicant
Location or address where the deceased individual passed away
Information about burial or funeral insurance policies
Information about other funeral assistance received, such as donations
Information about CARES Act grants or other assistance received from voluntary organizations
Routing and account number of the applicant’s checking or savings account (for direct deposit, if requested)
More information is available from FEMA online: https://www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/economic/funeral-assistance/faq.