Following the devastating storms and floods that began July 2, survivors in Texas may be eligible for financial help covering funeral or burial expenses.
The Funeral Assistance program, managed by the State of Texas with FEMA’s support, aims to ease some of the burdens families face after a disaster-related loss.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify, applicants must be U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, or qualified aliens, and FEMA must be able to confirm their identity. The program covers deaths directly or indirectly caused by the disaster.
“Whether a loved one died from the disaster itself or from unsafe conditions during cleanup, we are here to help,” the program guidance states.
Understanding Disaster-Related Deaths
A direct disaster-related death could be caused by collapsing buildings or flying debris, officials explained. Indirect causes include dangerous conditions during preparations, the storm itself, or post-disaster cleanup, as well as worsening of pre-existing health conditions due to the disaster.
However, officials caution that documents stating a death “may have been caused by” the disaster do not qualify.
How to Apply
Survivors can apply by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA app, calling 800-621-3362, or visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. One such center is currently open daily at First Baptist Church in Kerrville, Texas.
What Costs Are Covered?
The assistance may help cover:
- Funeral services, including clergy fees
- Burial expenses like caskets, urns, burial plots, or cremation niches
- Reinterment costs for displaced remains
- Travel for up to two people to identify the deceased if required
- Death certificate fees and other legally required expenses
Limits and Exclusions
Eligible families may receive up to $9,000 per death or disinterment. FEMA emphasized that some expenses are not covered, such as flowers, obituaries, catering, or transportation to the funeral.
Assistance for Out-of-State Families
Applicants do not need to live in Texas but must prove that the death or disinterment happened in the disaster area.
Required Documentation
Applicants must provide an official death certificate or a statement from a medical examiner or funeral home, along with receipts or estimates for funeral costs and proof that no other financial aid covered the expenses.
Appeals Process Available
“If you disagree with the amount of assistance, you can appeal,” the guidance states. Applicants must submit additional documents explaining why they need further help.
Continuing Support for Flood Recovery
FEMA reminds Texans that disaster recovery assistance is available to all eligible residents without regard to race, nationality, or income level.
For more information, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.