NY to cover funeral costs of up to $9,000 for those who succumbed to COVID

Members of the Democratic Party from New York, Senator Chuck Schumer and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez announced on Thursday that the families of those who succumbed to COVID-19 will now be able to claim a sum of $9,000 from the state authorities to cover the funeral costs. 

The highly-awaited initiative was announced in collaboration with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and will be put into practice beginning April 12. Both Schumer and AOC have been known lobbyists for such an initiative, The Daily News reported. 

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The move comes with virtually no limitations and can be accessed by anyone living in the state of New York and being a documented resident. The programme has set aside a sum of $260 million seeking reimbursements for funeral expenses. 

“I’m so relieved that soon our families will finally be able to access relief, and I’m grateful to FEMA for working with Sen. Schumer and I to make this program inclusive, generous and easily accessible,” said AOC while relaying sympathy to those who lost someone in the pandemic, reported Daily News. 

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However, the programme excludes the undocumented and unregistered residents of the US due to which Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer suggested an alternative approach of getting an eligible family member availing the financial assistance. He further advised the people of New York to request the amount only after gathering all necessary receipts and paperwork as FEMA refrains from granting re-claims. 

Expenses related to caskets or urns, clergy services, cost of burials, funeral ceremonies, cremations among others will be eligible for reimbursement under the financial support scheme.