New Zealand · Bereavement
How to Apply for a Funeral Grant in New Zealand
If you're struggling to cover funeral costs, Work and Income's Funeral Grant can contribute up to $2,408. Apply as early as possible — ideally before the funeral takes place.
Maximum grant
$2,408.74
Who administers it
Work and Income NZ
Means tested?
Yes — income and assets
When to apply
Before the funeral if possible
What is the Funeral Grant?
The Funeral Grant is a payment from Work and Income to help cover the cost of a funeral, burial, or cremation in New Zealand. It is not an automatic entitlement — it is means-tested, meaning your income and assets are taken into account. The grant won't necessarily cover the full cost of a funeral, but it can make a significant difference if finances are tight.
Who can apply?
Any of the following can apply:
- The estate of the person who died
- The surviving spouse or partner
- The person paying for the funeral (including a family member or friend)
You don't need to be a Work and Income client to apply.
How much can you get?
The maximum grant is $2,408.74 (2024–25 rates). The actual amount you receive depends on your income and assets. If you or the estate have savings or assets above a certain threshold, the grant may be reduced or declined.
ACC-covered deaths: If the death was caused by an accident, ACC may cover funeral costs separately — up to approximately $6,837 — and this does not go through Work and Income. Contact ACC on 0800 101 996 if this applies.
What you'll need
- A quote or invoice from the funeral director
- The death certificate (or confirmation of death from the funeral director while you wait for it)
- Your bank account details
- Proof of your relationship to the deceased (if you are not the executor)
- Details of your income and assets
How to apply
- 1 Call Work and Income on 0800 559 009 as soon as possible — ideally before the funeral, once you have a quote from the funeral director. Tell them you want to apply for a Funeral Grant.
- 2 Provide the details they ask for — your relationship to the deceased, your income and assets, and the funeral costs. They may ask you to complete a form.
- 3 Submit supporting documents — funeral quote or invoice, and the death certificate when you have it. You can email or fax these, or visit a local Work and Income office.
- 4 Wait for a decision — Work and Income will process applications quickly given the time pressure. Payment goes directly to your bank account.
You can also apply online at workandincome.govt.nz, or visit your nearest Work and Income service centre in person.
Don't wait for the death certificate. You can start the application with a funeral quote and confirmation from the funeral director. The certificate can follow.
If you're declined
If your application is declined, you have the right to ask Work and Income to review the decision. Explain your circumstances clearly — in particular if there are costs or debts that weren't considered. You can also ask a Citizens Advice Bureau for free help with the review process.
Not sure what else needs doing?
The funeral grant is just one part of what needs to happen after someone dies. Our full guide covers every step — or answer a few questions and get a plan specific to your situation.