Funeral costs - Social assistance

In Germany, burial is compulsory. In the event of a death, the relatives of the deceased (in the order stipulated by law) are obliged to arrange the funeral. They also have to bear the costs incurred, which they can claim from the heirs of the estate - if they are not heirs themselves.

If the relatives are not in a position to bear the funeral costs and the estate of the deceased is also insufficient, the relatives can apply for the funeral costs to be covered.

Proof of the deceased:

• Death certificate
• List and valuation of the estate with proof of assets, in particular
  • Complete current account statements for the last 3 months
  • savings books
  • financial investments
  • residential property
  • Sum insured of life insurance policies
  • Current value of the vehicle
  • Building society savings and similar
• if available: Will or contract of inheritance
• List of possible heirs and family members of the deceased (spouse, children, parents, siblings, grandchildren, grandparents or partners in a marriage-like relationship, other heirs)

Proof of the applicant:

• Certificate of inheritance or proof of inheritance
• Copies of the type and amount of income for the last 3 months
• Details of other relatives of the deceased (e.g. heirs living in the household and relatives of the deceased)
• Proof of financial circumstances
• Proof of monthly charges
• Tenancy agreement and last declaration of rent increase from the landlord (current rent amount)
• if the application is made after the funeral: Original invoice from the funeral home

Which costs are covered in individual cases is determined by the social welfare office at its own discretion.

The assistance is dependent on income and assets. There are fixed maximum amounts for the costs of the individual funeral components. The Social Welfare Office will not pay any costs in excess of this.

The costs of a simple coffin and a wooden cross are usually covered. Decisions regarding the decoration of the funeral hall and the grave with flowers and the assumption of costs for a stone headstone are made on a case-by-case basis.

If the relatives have opted for cremation, the social welfare office can also cover the cost of an urn.

The application can be made before or after a funeral. However, it is advisable to submit the application before the funeral or at least to discuss the matter with the competent authority.