Meng Announces New COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Coming Soon

March 27, 2021
Press Release

Program will allow those who lost a loved one to the virus to seek federal financial relief to cover expenses

QUEENS, NY – U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) announced today that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will soon accept applications for COVID-19 funeral expenses.
Those who wish to seek funding to help cover the costs of burying loved ones who passed away from COVID-19 are encouraged to regularly check FEMA's website for additional details.
"Over half a million Americans have tragically died from COVID-19 including tens of thousands here in New York. Too many families are struggling on so many levels from the financial and emotional stresses. To help alleviate some of the pain and stress, I am grateful to announce that due to recent COVID-19 relief legislation, which provided funds for COVID-19 funeral assistance, Americans who lost a family member to the virus will be able to seek financial relief," said Meng. "I encourage those who have been impacted to check out FEMA's website and apply for funding as soon as it is available. I know that no amount of federal relief will ever make us or our families whole, but I hope that it will bring some small bit of relief for Queens and New York families as we look to recovery from this pandemic."
To be eligible, the following conditions must be met:
  • The death must have occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia.
  • The death certificate must indicate the death was attributed to COVID-19.
  • The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after January 20, 2020.
  • There is no requirement for the deceased person to have been a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien.