Bereavement problem

[canouan]

Can anyone advise me? My father died at the weekend and I'm his sole surviving relative (and also executor of his will). The problem is that my dad won't have left any money to speak of as he only had his state pension. What happens about the funeral expenses? I have no money - I've only recently returned to work after two years off on income support through illness, I only earn �6 an hour and I'm right up to my overdraft limit. As my dad was on full state pension, can he be cremated on benefits? Please help - I'm so worried.

[Kathyan]

There is a Funeral payment but you have to be getting Income Support, Jobseekers Allowance, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit. You could ring them anyway and ask. Sorry about your loss.

[kazza12345]

most funeral homes will take on payment plans

[Ethel]

Excellent advice here:

http://www.funeralsearch.co.uk/help-with-costs .php

But you really must speak to someone at your local DSS.

Don't forget that your Funeral Director will be able to give good advice and support too.

[ianess]

Sorry to hear about your loss, but please remember that whoever authorises anything to do with the funeral arrangements is ultimately responsible for the costs involved. Instances like this are not uncommon but you do need to speak to Social Services urgently for advice.
Best wishes.

[Yorky Lass]

The funeral payment mentioned by kathyan will not cover the whole of the funeral costs. ANY savings, or money in your father's name, will be taken pound for pound from any payment made.
Single persons Council Tax benefit isn't a qualifying benefit either I'm afraid. If your father owned his own house this too would be taken into account.
You are allowed to apply for a Funeral Payment up to 3 months after the date of the funeral.

Sorry this will not be what you want to hear.

You'll find funeral directors are use to your situation and I would advise you to talk to them.

Regards