Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance Resources in Connecticut
Last updated September 11, 2026
Losing a loved one is overwhelming, and unexpected funeral costs can add serious financial strain at the worst possible time. Connecticut residents who cannot afford burial or cremation expenses may qualify for assistance through state programs, federal benefits, or nonprofit organizations. Help is available regardless of whether the deceased had insurance or savings.
The Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) administers a state-funded burial assistance program for low-income individuals. Veterans may be eligible for burial benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and Social Security provides a small one-time death benefit to qualifying survivors. Eligibility rules and benefit amounts vary, so it is important to apply quickly — many programs have strict deadlines following the date of death.
If you are unsure where to start, calling 2-1-1 (dial 2-1-1 or visit 211ct.org) is the fastest way to find locally available funeral assistance, grief support, and other end-of-life resources anywhere in Connecticut. Trained specialists are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Key programs in Connecticut
Connecticut DSS State Burial Assistance
Connecticut's Department of Social Services provides limited financial assistance toward burial or cremation costs for deceased individuals who were receiving DSS benefits (such as Medicaid or cash assistance) at the time of death, or whose estates and families cannot cover the cost. The benefit helps with basic burial or cremation arrangements through a funeral home that participates in the program.
How to access: Contact the Connecticut Department of Social Services at 1-855-626-6632 or visit your local DSS office as soon as possible after the death occurs. Applications must typically be submitted within a short window after death. You can find your local DSS office at portal.ct.gov/dss.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Burial Benefits
The VA provides burial and funeral allowances, a burial flag, and, where available, a grave marker for eligible veterans. Burial in a national cemetery — including the state veterans' cemeteries in Connecticut — is available at no cost to eligible veterans and certain dependents. Connecticut has a Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Middletown.
How to access: Contact the VA at 1-800-827-1000 or visit va.gov/burials-memorials to learn about eligibility and to file a claim (VA Form 21P-530EZ). You can also reach Connecticut's Office of Veteran Services at 860-616-3603 for local guidance and pre-need eligibility determinations.
Social Security Administration (SSA) Lump-Sum Death Payment
Social Security provides a one-time payment of $255 to the surviving spouse or, in some cases, eligible minor children of a deceased worker who had sufficient Social Security work credits. This benefit is modest but can help offset immediate costs.
How to access: Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) or visit ssa.gov. This benefit must be applied for within two years of the date of death. Funeral homes often notify SSA of a death, but survivors should still apply directly.
2-1-1 Connecticut (United Way of Connecticut)
2-1-1 Connecticut is a free, confidential helpline and searchable database connecting residents to local nonprofit organizations, community funds, and religious organizations that may offer emergency funeral assistance, grief counseling, grief support groups, and other end-of-life-related services that vary by county and town.
How to access: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone (available 24/7) or search the database at 211ct.org. Specialists can help identify programs you may not find on your own, including local funeral homes that offer reduced-cost services for families in need.
Connecticut Area Agencies on Aging / Eldercare Locator
If the deceased was an older adult, or if a surviving family member is a senior who needs help navigating end-of-life planning, grief resources, or benefits like Medicaid spend-down and estate questions, Connecticut's Area Agencies on Aging can connect families with local counselors and legal aid services.
How to access: Call the national Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–8 p.m. ET) to be connected to the appropriate Connecticut Area Agency on Aging for your region, or visit eldercare.acl.gov.
Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance resources for Connecticut
GriefShare
NationwideGrief recovery support groups meeting in communities nationwide.
TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors)
Nationwide24/7 support for families grieving the death of a military loved one.
The Dougy Center
NationwideSupport for children, teens, and families grieving a death, plus provider resources.
Other resources in Connecticut
- Housing Assistance in Connecticut
- Food Assistance in Connecticut
- Utility Assistance in Connecticut
- Transportation Assistance in Connecticut
- Mental Health Resources in Connecticut
- Domestic Violence Resources in Connecticut
- Disability Resources in Connecticut
- Veteran Resources in Connecticut
- Child & Family Assistance in Connecticut
- Senior Resources in Connecticut