MONTEREY COUNTY — Monterey County residents can apply for financial help to cover funeral expenses through FEMA’s Covid-19 Funeral Assistance Program, which began accepting applications Monday.
As of April 14, Monterey County has lost 348 residents to Covid-19.
“For those families who have lost a loved one, they should begin the assistance process by finding out if they are eligible,” according to Maia Carroll, the county’s communications coordinator, in a news release.
The free program will offer financial assistance for Covid-related funeral expenses that were incurred after Jan. 20, 2020. The amount of relief is limited to a maximum of $9,000 per funeral and $35,500 per application.
Families can check the FEMA website for updated information on eligibility and the documents needed to apply for help.
Applications will be taken through a dedicated phone line, 844-684-6333. Multilingual assistance is available as well as a TTY line, 800-462-7585.
“It is important to know, this program is free,” Carroll said. “There is no cost to apply and no fees.”
In addition, Monterey County will help those who are applying with resources and support through the process.
A dedicated webpage for information about the program has been established by the Office of Emergency Services, and can be found at https://bit.ly/3s4j7dn. An email address for questions about the program is available via [email protected].
The county has also partnered with 211 to direct residents to FEMA resources and their application hotline.
“The Office of Emergency Services encourages those who may be eligible to apply for relief,” Carroll said. “If you aren’t sure whether to apply and have questions about the program, contact us at [email protected].”
