FEMA Flooded with Calls for Help

FEMA has money available to help families pay for funeral expenses for loved ones who died from Covid.

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But the federal agency did not set up an online application process. They set up a phone line and that center was flooded by more than a million calls when the line opened to the public.

Many struggled to get through to get the application process started.

The application process opened on Monday, April 12. The Funeral Assistance Hotline Number is 884-684-6333. Click here to get more information about the application process.

Here's the criteria from FEMA to see if you qualify for the funding:

• 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.

The maximum amount available is $35,500 for each applicant.

The goal of the program is to help families who are struggling during this difficult time. You do have to provide an official death certificate. You are also required to submit funeral expense documents indicating how much you spent. FEMA also wants to see proof of other funds you received directly for funeral costs. This assistance will not allow any duplication of funds.