Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance Resources in North Dakota

Last updated September 7, 2026

Losing a loved one is one of life's most difficult moments, and the financial burden of funeral and burial costs can make an already painful time even harder. In North Dakota, several programs exist to help low-income families, veterans, and others cover end-of-life expenses — but they are not always easy to find on your own. Knowing where to start can make a significant difference.

The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (ND HHS) administers county-level General Assistance programs that may include burial assistance for individuals who die without sufficient resources. Eligibility and benefit amounts vary by county, so contacting your local county social services office is the essential first step. You can find your county office through the ND HHS website or by dialing 2-1-1.

Beyond state and county programs, federal veterans' benefits, Social Security death benefits, and nonprofit funeral assistance funds may also be available depending on your situation. This guide outlines the most reliable starting points so you or your social worker can pursue every option available.

Key programs in North Dakota

North Dakota County Burial Assistance (via ND HHS General Assistance)

Provides financial assistance toward burial or cremation costs for deceased individuals who lacked sufficient resources and whose survivors cannot afford funeral expenses. Administered at the county level under North Dakota's General Assistance program.

How to access: Contact your local county social services office as soon as possible after the death — timing matters, as applications typically must be filed before burial arrangements are finalized. Find your county office at hhs.nd.gov or by calling 2-1-1 North Dakota.

2-1-1 North Dakota

A free statewide helpline that connects callers to local social services, including funeral assistance funds, emergency financial aid, grief support, and other end-of-life resources. Specialists can identify county-specific and nonprofit programs that are not widely advertised.

How to access: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone in North Dakota, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also search online at nd.211.org.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Burial Benefits

Eligible veterans may receive a burial allowance, plot or interment allowance, and in some cases a government-furnished headstone or marker. Veterans who die of a service-connected condition or while receiving VA care may qualify for higher allowances. Burial in a national cemetery, including the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Mandan, is available at no cost to eligible veterans.

How to access: File VA Form 21P-530 (Application for Burial Benefits) with the VA. Contact the North Dakota Veterans Home or the VA Regional Office, or call the VA national line at 1-800-827-1000. The North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs at nd.gov/veterans can also assist with applications.

Social Security Administration (SSA) Lump-Sum Death Payment

A one-time payment of $255 may be available to the surviving spouse or eligible children of a deceased Social Security-insured worker. While modest, it can offset a portion of immediate expenses.

How to access: Apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local Social Security office. Applications must generally be filed within two years of the date of death.

Eldercare Locator / Area Agencies on Aging

For older adults who need end-of-life planning support — including advance directives, hospice navigation, and connecting families to local funeral assistance resources — North Dakota's Area Agencies on Aging can provide guidance and referrals.

How to access: Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 (free, nationwide) to be connected to your regional Area Agency on Aging in North Dakota. Services are available to adults 60 and older and their caregivers.

Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance resources for North Dakota

GriefShare

Nationwide

Grief recovery support groups meeting in communities nationwide.

Visit

TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors)

Nationwide

24/7 support for families grieving the death of a military loved one.

1-800-959-8277
Visit

The Dougy Center

Nationwide

Support for children, teens, and families grieving a death, plus provider resources.

1-866-775-5683
Visit
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