Nationally, a funeral with viewing and burial had a median cost of $8,300 (2023, NFDA). In New York, between 51% and 60% of deaths led to cremation, per early 2025 numbers from the Cremation Association of North America.
Help paying in New York
NYC Human Resources Administration. Up to $1,700 when the total funeral bill is $3,400 or less. Online claims ask if you file within 120 days of the death. Any immigration status. Call 311. Official page
NYC Department of Correction. Ask through the OCME Family Outreach Unit, 212 447 2030.. Free Official page
Medicaid and burial money
An irrevocable preneed funeral agreement is not counted if it has the right irrevocable statement. There is no dollar cap for normal funeral goods and services. People in SSI type groups can also keep a separate burial fund up to $1,500 ($3,000 for a couple). Money left after the funeral goes to the local social services office.
Prepaid funeral plans
The NYS Department of Health, Bureau of Funeral Directing, oversees funeral firms. Prepaid money must go into an interest bearing account or government backed investment within 10 days. You must be told where within 30 days. A revocable plan can be canceled any time for all principal and interest with no fee. Irrevocable plans are only for Medicaid or SSI.
Where to complain
NYS Department of Health, Bureau of Funeral Directing. Call (518) 402 0785. Website
Plan ahead
A small final expense policy can pay these costs so your family does not have to. Final expense in New York.
Common questions
How much does a funeral cost in New York?
Nationally, the median funeral with viewing and burial was $8,300 in 2023 and $6,280 with cremation. Prices in New York vary by funeral home, so ask for the itemized price list.
Is there help paying for a funeral in New York?
HRA Burial Assistance (New York City) (NYC Human Resources Administration); City burial on Hart Island (NYC Department of Correction. Ask through the OCME Family Outreach Unit, 212 447 2030.).
Who regulates funeral homes in New York?
NYS Department of Health, Bureau of Funeral Directing. Call (518) 402 0785.
