State benefit funeral allowance to increase

The UK government has announced that bereaved families eligible for state benefits will able to claim 43% more to cover funeral cost expenses such as coffin, flowers and funeral directors' fees. The maximum amount available as part of the Funeral Expenses Payment, previously £700, will increase to £1000 as of spring 2020 - the first time the benefit has increased since 2003. Minister for welfare delivery, Will Quince. said: "Everyone wants to give their loved ones a dignified send-off, and this money will help pay for the personal touches that enable a family to say goodbye properly. ...