CLEARBORROW · PUBLISHED NOVEMBER 12, 2026
Funeral loans and other ways to pay for a funeral
Before borrowing, use your rights under the FTC Funeral Rule: the funeral home must give you a written, itemized General Price List, and you can buy only the goods and services you want — which can lower the amount you need. Ask about payment plans and any benefits (Social Security pays a one-time $255 to an eligible spouse or child). If you still need to borrow, compare installment loans on total cost.
On this page
Your rights when arranging a funeral
- You can get a written, itemized price list when you visit a funeral home — the General Price List is yours to keep (FTC ↗).
- You can see a written casket price list before you see the caskets (FTC ↗).
- You have the right to buy only the funeral goods and services you want.
Comparing two or three price lists can change the amount you need to borrow more than any loan rate will.
Benefits and help to check first
- Social Security’s lump-sum death payment of $255 can go to an eligible surviving spouse or child; it is not paid to funeral homes. Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (summary ↗).
- Veterans may be eligible for burial benefits through the VA.
- Some counties and states have indigent burial programs; ask your local social services office.
Ways to pay, compared
| Option | Notes |
|---|---|
| Funeral home payment plan | Ask whether there is interest or a fee |
| Family contributions or crowdfunding | No interest, but takes time |
| Personal installment loan | Fixed payments; compare APR and fees |
| Credit card | Only for an amount you can repay quickly |
What borrowing $5,000 costs
| Our example | Monthly payment | Interest |
|---|---|---|
| 15% APR, 36 months | $173.33 | $1,239.76 |
| 30% APR, 36 months | $212.26 | $2,641.28 |
Our arithmetic; fees not included.
A note on timing
Funeral decisions are made quickly, under stress. Ask a family member or friend to read the price list and any loan agreement with you before you sign.
Questions
Do funeral homes offer payment plans?
Some do. Ask for the terms in writing, including any interest or fees.
Does Social Security pay for funerals?
It pays a one-time $255 to an eligible surviving spouse or child, not to the funeral home.
Can I get a funeral loan with bad credit?
Some lenders and matching services accept lower scores at higher APRs. Compare the total repayment.
Sources and limits
- FTC: the Funeral Rule ↗
- FTC: Paying final respects — your rights when buying funeral goods and services ↗
- Summary of the SSA lump-sum death payment ($255) — confirm with SSA at 1-800-772-1213 ↗
Sources checked November 12, 2026. This is general information, not legal, tax or benefits advice; rules differ by state. Worked examples are our own arithmetic, not offers. How we use sources.