Help with Funeral Costs in Ireland

Ireland does not have a universal funeral grant, but there are several sources of financial support depending on your circumstances. This guide explains the main options. If you'd rather have a plan built around your situation, answer a few questions and we'll put one together →

Additional Needs Payment

The most widely available source of help with funeral costs in Ireland is the Additional Needs Payment (ANP), administered by the Department of Social Protection. It is a one-off payment (previously called the Exceptional Needs Payment) for people facing financial hardship — you do not need to be on social welfare to apply, but your financial circumstances are assessed.

Apply at your local Intreo Centre as soon as possible after the death. Bring the death certificate, a funeral invoice or estimate, and evidence of your income and outgoings. There is no fixed amount — the DSP considers the reasonable cost of a modest funeral.

Occupational Injuries Scheme — Funeral Grant

If the deceased died as a direct result of a workplace accident or occupational disease, a funeral grant of €850 is payable under the Occupational Injuries Scheme. A claim should be made within 3 months of the death to receive the full benefit — if you apply later, you may lose some entitlement.

Credit union Death Benefit Insurance

Many Irish credit unions provide Death Benefit Insurance free to members. On death, the policy typically pays a multiple of the member’s savings balance up to a maximum. This can meaningfully offset funeral costs and is often unclaimed. Contact any credit union the deceased held membership with.

Life assurance and mortgage protection

Check whether the deceased held a life insurance policy, mortgage protection policy, or death-in-service benefit through an employer. These are designed to pay out promptly and can cover immediate costs before probate is resolved. Contact each insurer with the death certificate as soon as possible.

Local authority burial grounds

Most local authorities and county councils maintain public cemeteries with lower plot and interment fees than private cemeteries. A funeral director can advise on options in your area. Cremation is also generally less expensive than burial.

Pre-paid funeral plans

If the deceased made a pre-paid funeral arrangement, the funeral home holding the plan will have the instructions and funds on file. Check personal papers and ask other family members if this was ever discussed.