In these overwhelming times there is a lot of information being shared about funerals, burials, and death surrounding Covid-19. It can be difficult—if not paralyzing—figuring what information is accurate.

So to help you navigate the abundance of material online, we’ve created this Covid-19 Toolkit. Consider this your one-stop source for reliable and up-to-date facts and guidance on handling death, grief, and end-of-life planning under Covid-19.

In addition, we will be regularly updating the resources below, so you can trust that (to the best of our knowledge) the information presented here is accurate.


The Order’s Covid-19 Resources


Various articles, videos, and resources created by The Order of the Good Death in response to Covid‑19.

Resources


Body Care: Funerals, Burials, & Cremations


Are Covid-19 bodies dangerous? What if someone dies at home? How are funeral homes handling Covid-19 bodies? Answers to these question and more, regarding Covid-19 and death care.

Burials & Funerals in the Age of Coronavirus

Prayer & Religious Funeral Issues Pertaining to Covid-19

Funeral & Burial Guidance in Languages Other Than English*

*This information is from the New York City government. While it is good general information, please check with your local funeral homes and officials for specifics in your area.

General Covid-19 information in languages other than English

Financial Assistance For Funerals

For families who experienced a death resulting from Covid-19 the U.S. has passed a bill directing FEMA to provide funeral expense reimbursements of up to $7,000.

Home Funerals


Talking About Death


In addition to considerations about discussing the topic of death during Covid-19, now is a crucial time to be discussing death, end of life care, and funeral plans with our loved ones in supportive, compassionate, and effective ways.

Talking About Death

The Importance of Talking About Death During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Talking to Our Loved Ones About Death

Talking to Children

Planning and Protecting Your End of Life Wishes


Funerals and Being with the Dying in the Age of Social Distancing


Practical advice, tips, and inspiration, as well as information on locating financial assistance if needed.

Funerals and Being with the Dying in the Age of Social Distancing

 

Financial Assistance For Funerals & Ideas On How to Eliminate Unnecessary Costs


Mental and Emotional Health


Advice on how to manage your own grief, death fears, and anxiety as well as ways you can help or companion others.

Death Anxiety

Grief and Mourning


A Guide to FEMA’s Covid-19 Funeral Assistance Program

Starting April 12, 2021 the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will be providing funds to cover the funeral expenses of families who’ve lost a loved one to Covid-19 in the U.S. Here’s your guide to who qualifies, what documents you’ll need, how to apply, and more.

Graphic with text explaining Fema's Covid-19 Funeral Assistance Program.

What

Who

  • The death must have occurred in the U.S. (includes U.S. territories and the District of Columbia)
  • Death certificate must indicate that the death was caused by Covid-19
  • U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, and qualified aliens are eligible
  • You can apply for reimbursement of funeral expenses for more than one person, if applicable.

When

  • Application process (phone only) begins Monday, April 12th
  • Monday – Friday, 6am – 6pm PST / 8am – 8pm CMT

How to Apply

  • Call the FEMA hotline to begin the application process: 844-684-6333 | TTY: 800-462-7585
  • You will be given an application number over the phone and instructions on how to submit supporting documentation to FEMA

You will need

  • Death Certificate with Covid- 19 listed as cause of death
  • Proof of paid funeral expenses (receipts, contract for services, etc.)

How To Prepare

Applicants will be asked for the following information:

  • Birthdate of applicant and the deceased
  • Social Security Number of applicant and deceased
  • Address/location where death occurred
  • Information about any financial assistance received from charitable organizations, donations, etc.

Qualifying Funeral Expenses

  • Casket
  • Urn
  • Cemetery plot or cremation niche
  • Funeral arrangements, use of funeral home, and staff
  • Headstone or grave marker
  • Transportation of body
  • Cremation, burial, and related costs
  • Officiant or clergy fee
  • Death certificate

For more information visit FEMA’s Official Covid-19 Funeral Assistance Webpage.