Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance Resources in Hawaii

Losing a loved one is one of life's hardest moments, and the financial pressure of funeral and burial costs can make an already painful time feel overwhelming. Hawaii residents may qualify for several forms of assistance — from state-administered burial aid to federal veterans benefits — depending on the circumstances of the death and the family's financial situation. Acting quickly matters, as some programs have short application windows after a death occurs.

The best first step for many families is to call 2-1-1 Hawaii (dial 2-1-1 or text your ZIP code to 898-211). Specialists are available around the clock to connect you with county-level burial assistance programs, nonprofit funeral funds, and other local resources that may not be widely advertised. Hawaii's four counties — Honolulu, Maui, Hawaii (Big Island), and Kauai — each administer their own social services, so availability can vary by island.

If the deceased was receiving Medicaid (known in Hawaii as Med-QUEST), had served in the military, or died due to a work-related injury, specific programs may cover all or part of final expenses. Funeral homes in Hawaii are often familiar with these pathways and can help families navigate applications while arrangements are being made. Don't hesitate to ask the funeral director directly what assistance programs they accept.