Dealing with the loss of a loved one is never easy, and the financial burden that accompanies funeral arrangements can add significant stress.

In Illinois, as in many other states, funerals can be expensive, and not everyone has the means to cover these costs.

This article explores what happens if you can’t pay for a funeral in Illinois and the various options available to alleviate this financial burden.

What Happens If You Can’t Pay For A Funeral In Illinois?

Understanding the Cost of Funerals in Illinois

Funeral expenses can vary widely depending on the type of service and the specific arrangements made. On average, a traditional funeral in Illinois, which includes a viewing, service, and burial, can cost between $7,000 and $10,000. This cost includes:

• Funeral Home Fees: These fees cover the services provided by the funeral home, including the use of facilities for the viewing and service, as well as the staff’s time and effort.
• Casket or Urn: The cost of a casket can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the material and design. Urns for cremated remains are generally less expensive.
• Burial Plot and Grave Marker: Purchasing a burial plot in a cemetery and installing a grave marker or headstone can also be significant expenses.
• Transportation: Costs for transporting the body to the funeral home, cemetery, or crematorium.
• Other Miscellaneous Costs: This can include flowers, obituary notices, and other personal touches to the service.

State Assistance Programs

For families struggling to afford a funeral, Illinois offers several assistance programs. These programs aim to provide financial support to ensure that every deceased individual receives a dignified funeral, regardless of the family’s financial situation.

Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Funeral and Burial Benefits

The Illinois Department of Human Services provides funeral and burial benefits for individuals who were receiving public assistance at the time of their death. The benefits can cover up to $1,103 for funeral costs and $552 for burial costs. To qualify, the deceased must have been eligible for one of the following programs:

• Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD)
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
• General Assistance

Families must apply for these benefits within 30 days of the death, and the application must include documentation of the deceased’s eligibility and proof of the funeral expenses.

County Assistance Programs

In addition to state-level assistance, some counties in Illinois offer their own programs to help cover funeral costs for residents in need. For example:

• Cook County: The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office provides indigent burial services for individuals who are unclaimed or whose families cannot afford a funeral.
• DuPage County: DuPage County offers a burial assistance program for low-income residents who meet specific eligibility criteria.

Charitable Organizations

Several charitable organizations and non-profits provide financial assistance for funerals. These organizations can be an invaluable resource for families facing financial hardship:

• The Funeral Consumers Alliance (FCA): The FCA provides resources and advocacy to help families navigate funeral costs and find affordable options.
• The Humanitarian Service Project (HSP): This organization offers assistance to low-income seniors in DuPage and Kane counties, which can include help with funeral expenses.
• Local Churches and Community Groups: Many local religious institutions and community organizations have funds set aside to help families in their congregation or community with funeral expenses.

Crowdfunding and Community Support

In recent years, crowdfunding has become a popular way to raise funds for various expenses, including funerals. Platforms such as GoFundMe allow families to create a campaign to raise money for funeral costs. This method can be effective, especially when combined with social media to reach a broader audience.

How to Set Up a Crowdfunding Campaign

1. Choose a Platform: Select a reputable crowdfunding platform, such as GoFundMe.
2. Create the Campaign: Provide detailed information about the deceased, the funeral expenses, and why financial assistance is needed.
3. Share the Campaign: Use social media, email, and other channels to share the campaign with friends, family, and the community.
4. Update Supporters: Keep supporters informed about the progress of the campaign and the use of the funds raised.

Pre-Paid Funeral Plans

For those concerned about future funeral costs, pre-paid funeral plans can be a viable option. These plans allow individuals to pay for their funeral in advance, locking in current prices and alleviating the financial burden on their families.

Advantages of Pre-Paid Plans

• Fixed Costs: Pre-paying for a funeral can protect against inflation and rising costs.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that funeral expenses are covered can provide peace of mind for both the individual and their family.
• Flexible Payment Options: Many funeral homes offer flexible payment plans to make pre-paying more manageable.

Low-Cost Funeral Options

For families looking to minimize expenses, several low-cost funeral options are available:

• Direct Cremation: This option involves the cremation of the body without a formal viewing or service, significantly reducing costs. The average cost of direct cremation in Illinois is around $1,500.
• Immediate Burial: Immediate burial involves burying the body shortly after death without a public viewing or service. This option can cost between $2,000 and $4,000.
• Memorial Service: Holding a memorial service after cremation or burial can be a more affordable option, allowing for a meaningful tribute without the high costs of a traditional funeral.

Government and Veteran Benefits

For eligible veterans, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides burial benefits, including a burial allowance, a plot or interment allowance, and reimbursement for transportation costs. These benefits can help cover the cost of a veteran’s funeral and burial.

How to Apply for VA Burial Benefits

1. Gather Documentation: Collect the veteran’s discharge papers (DD214), death certificate, and itemized funeral and burial bills.
2. Complete the Application: Fill out VA Form 21P-530, Application for Burial Benefits.
3. Submit the Application: Submit the completed form and supporting documents to the VA.

Conclusion

Navigating the financial challenges of paying for a funeral can be daunting, but numerous resources and options are available to assist families in Illinois.

From state and county assistance programs to charitable organizations and crowdfunding, there are many ways to ensure that every individual receives a dignified farewell.

Planning ahead with pre-paid funeral plans or exploring low-cost funeral options can also help manage these expenses. By leveraging these resources, families can focus on honoring their loved ones without the added stress of financial strain.