There is up-to-date information and guidance on the Leeds City Council website about possible requirements or restrictions when arranging a funeral.
A funeral can only take place after a death has been registered. Most people choose to use a funeral director, though you can arrange a funeral yourself.
You can compare prices of funeral directors in your area and obtain free independent advice about funerals on the Your Funeral Choice website.
Please note that Leeds City Council no longer charges for the burial or cremation of a child under the age of 18.
Funeral costs
Funeral costs can include:
- funeral director fees
- things the funeral director pays for on your behalf (called ‘disbursements’ or ‘third-party costs’), for example crematorium or cemetery fees, or a newspaper announcement about the death
- local authority burial or cremation fees
- doctors fees for signing and checking cremation paperwork
Funeral directors may list all these costs in their quote.
Paying for a funeral
A funeral can be paid for:
- from a financial scheme the person had, for example a pre-paid funeral plan or insurance policy
- by you, or other family members or friends
- with money from the person’s estate (savings, for example) – getting access to this is called applying for a ‘grant of representation’ (sometimes called ‘applying for probate’)
Funeral Expenses Payment
You could get a Funeral Payment from the Department for Work and Pensions if you are on a low income and need help to pay for a funeral you’re arranging. How much you get depends on your circumstances and if you qualify.
You can find out more information and see if you qualify for the scheme on the Funeral Payments website.