Funeral Assistance
The death of a loved one brings financial concerns in addition to grief. Funerals in Finland typically cost 3,000–8,000 euros, and unexpected expenses can burden the family. Funeral assistance is intended to ease this financial burden, and support can be sought from multiple sources.
Kela Funeral Assistance
Kela may pay funeral assistance under certain conditions. The granting of the benefit depends on the deceased's insurance coverage and benefit entitlement. The application is made by a close relative or an estate shareholder, and it should be submitted as soon as possible after the death. Kela's forms and guidelines are available through Kela's online service.
Trade Union Death Benefit
Many trade unions pay a death benefit upon the death of their member, typically ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 euros. The amount depends on the union's rules and length of membership. The benefit is applied for directly from the union, and the application period is usually 6–12 months from death.
It is important to check the deceased's trade union membership during the estate inventory process so that the benefit application can be submitted in time.
Other Financial Support
Funeral costs can also be supported from the following sources:
- Life insurance — many insurance policies include a death benefit that covers funeral costs in part or in full
- Parish diaconal work — the parish may grant financial aid to low-income families
- Income support — municipal social services may grant income support for funeral costs if the family's income and assets are insufficient
- Employer — some employers pay funeral assistance or provide other financial support
Application Periods and Practices
Funeral assistance should be applied for as soon as possible, as most forms of support have deadlines. All estate assets and liabilities, including funeral costs, are recorded in the estate inventory deed, and funeral costs are deducted from the estate's assets before calculating inheritance tax.
More information about funeral costs can be found in our articles on how much do funerals cost and affordable funerals.
Frequently asked questions
Who can receive Kela funeral assistance?
Kela funeral assistance may be paid if the deceased was covered by Kela and met certain criteria. The granting of assistance depends on the deceased's situation, such as pension or insurance coverage. The application is usually made by a close relative or the estate.
How much is the funeral assistance?
The amount of Kela funeral assistance varies. Trade union death benefits are typically 2,000–6,000 euros depending on the union and length of membership. Some insurance policies also include funeral assistance.
What other support is available for funeral costs?
Support for funeral costs can be obtained from a trade union, life insurance, parish (diaconal work), social services (income support), and in some cases from the employer. There are also separate benefits for the families of war veterans.
Related terms
Read also
What does a funeral cost in Finland? Read about burial fees, plot prices, crematorium charges, blessing ceremony, and memorial gathering costs.
A guide to choosing a funeral home: what services funeral homes offer, how to compare prices, and what your rights are as a consumer.
A guide to handling insurance matters after a loved one's death: claiming life insurance, group life insurance, cancelling policies, and Kela benefits.