What happens if a hospice patient dies and the family afford to bury patient?

If a hospice patient dies and the family cannot afford to bury the patient, there are several resources available to help cover the costs.

1. Medicaid

Medicaid is a government-funded health insurance program that provides coverage for low-income individuals, including hospice patients. Medicaid may cover the cost of burial expenses, including funeral services, transportation of the body, and burial plot or cremation.

2. Social Security

Social Security provides a one-time death benefit to the survivors of deceased workers. The amount of the death benefit depends on the worker's earnings and the number of dependents they have. The death benefit can be used to cover burial expenses.

3. Veterans benefits

Veterans who served in the military may be eligible for burial benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). VA burial benefits include a burial allowance, a flag, and a headstone or marker.

4. Charitable organizations

There are a number of charitable organizations that provide financial assistance for burial expenses. These organizations include the Salvation Army, the Catholic Charities, and the Jewish Federation.

5. Funeral homes

Some funeral homes offer payment plans or discounts for families who cannot afford to pay for burial expenses in full.

If a family is struggling to pay for burial expenses, they should contact their local hospice agency, social services agency, or veterans benefits office to inquire about available resources.