Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance Resources in District of Columbia
Last updated September 10, 2026
Losing a loved one is one of life's most difficult moments, and the financial pressure of funeral and burial costs can make an already painful time even harder. Washington, DC residents may be eligible for several programs that help cover final expenses — from government burial assistance to federal veterans' benefits — depending on the circumstances of the death and the family's financial situation.
The DC Department of Human Services (DHS) administers public assistance programs that may include help for low-income families facing burial costs. In addition, federal programs through the Social Security Administration and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provide benefits to eligible survivors. If you are unsure where to start, calling 2-1-1 (dial 2-1-1 or visit dc211.org) connects you with a trained specialist who can identify local and federal resources specific to your situation.
Beyond financial help, end-of-life planning also involves advance directives, hospice care, and grief support services. DC's Office on Aging and Veterans Services can connect older adults and veterans with counselors and care coordinators. Hospice and palliative care programs are available through DC Medicaid (Medicaid in the District of Columbia is administered by the Department of Health Care Finance) for eligible residents who qualify for end-of-life care at home or in a facility.
Key programs in District of Columbia
DC Department of Human Services (DHS) — Public Assistance for Burial
DHS may provide limited financial assistance toward burial or cremation costs for DC residents who are uninsured, low-income, or whose next of kin cannot afford funeral expenses. Eligibility and benefit amounts are determined on a case-by-case basis.
How to access: Contact DC DHS directly at (202) 671-4200 or visit dhs.dc.gov. You can also call 2-1-1 to be connected to the appropriate DHS office and to verify current program availability and eligibility requirements.
Social Security Administration (SSA) — Lump-Sum Death Payment
SSA provides a one-time lump-sum death benefit to the surviving spouse or, in some cases, eligible dependent children of a deceased worker who had sufficient Social Security earnings credits. This benefit is intended to help offset immediate costs after death.
How to access: Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) or visit ssa.gov. The surviving spouse or family representative should apply as soon as possible, as there is a time limit on claiming this benefit.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) — Burial and Memorial Benefits
The VA offers burial allowances, plot or interment allowances, and military funeral honors for eligible veterans. Burial in a national cemetery (such as Arlington National Cemetery, located just across the DC border) may be available at no cost to qualifying veterans and their dependents.
How to access: Call the VA Benefits line at 1-800-827-1000 or visit va.gov/burials-memorials. The DC VA Medical Center (50 Irving St NW) can also connect families with a VA social worker who handles survivor benefits.
DC Medicaid / Department of Health Care Finance — Hospice Benefit
DC Medicaid covers hospice and palliative care services for terminally ill residents who meet eligibility criteria, including physician certification of a life-limiting illness. This can significantly reduce out-of-pocket end-of-life medical and comfort care costs.
How to access: Apply for DC Medicaid through the DC Health Link at dchealthlink.com or call (855) 532-5465. Current Medicaid enrollees should ask their primary care provider for a hospice referral, or contact the Department of Health Care Finance at dhcf.dc.gov.
DC Office on Aging / Eldercare Locator — End-of-Life Planning Support for Older Adults
The DC Office on Aging connects older adults and their caregivers with care managers who can assist with advance directive planning, connecting to grief counseling, and navigating end-of-life services. The national Eldercare Locator links DC callers to local aging services.
How to access: Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 (Monday–Friday, 9am–8pm ET) or visit eldercare.acl.gov. You can also reach the DC Office on Aging directly at (202) 724-5626 or visit dcoa.dc.gov.
Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance resources for District of Columbia
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 District of Columbia
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- Disability Resources in District of Columbia
- Veteran Resources in District of Columbia
- Child & Family Assistance in District of Columbia
- Senior Resources in District of Columbia