Nationally, a funeral with viewing and burial had a median cost of $8,300 (2023, NFDA).
Help paying in Virginia
The county or city where the person lived or died. No dollar amount in the law. If the locality pays and there is an estate, the estate is used to pay it back. Official page
Medicaid and burial money
Up to $3,500 for you and $3,500 for your spouse set aside for burial is not counted. That amount is lowered by excluded life insurance face value and by any other burial trust, contract or plan. Cemetery plots are not counted no matter how many.
Prepaid funeral plans
The Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers sets the contract forms. Within 30 days the seller must put 100% of what you pay in trust, or 90% if the price is guaranteed, unless it funds insurance or an annuity. Cancel within 30 days and you get everything back with interest. After 30 days you get the trust amount with interest. Irrevocable contracts are allowed.
Where to complain
Virginia Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers, Department of Health Professions. File a complaint through DHP Enforcement. Website
Plan ahead
A small final expense policy can pay these costs so your family does not have to. Final expense in Virginia.
Common questions
How much does a funeral cost in Virginia?
Nationally, the median funeral with viewing and burial was $8,300 in 2023 and $6,280 with cremation. Prices in Virginia vary by funeral home, so ask for the itemized price list.
Is there help paying for a funeral in Virginia?
Locality pays when the family cannot (Va. Code 32.1-309.1) (The county or city where the person lived or died).
Who regulates funeral homes in Virginia?
Virginia Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers, Department of Health Professions. File a complaint through DHP Enforcement.
