This program of Yad Yehuda of Greater Washington is designed to assist Greater Washington area families in financial distress provide a loved one with a dignified burial in accordance with Jewish law. Whether it is connecting family members with the right resources or providing direct financial assistance, Chesed Shel Emes Aid is committed to assisting in this holy work. In addition to contracted discount arrangements with many local funeral homes, this program offers additional financial assistance towards the funeral and burial costs as needed. Please visit www.chesedshelemesaid.org to learn more.
Pre-need arrangements may be made before an individual passes away, when it becomes clear that there in not much time left. Misaskim of Greater Washington can also provide resource assistance when a person does not qualify for government benefits and does not have sufficient funds for a funeral from a commercial funeral home. Please contact us as quickly as possible so we may help ensure that the niftar (the deceased) is prepared for burial immediately after death in accordance with Jewish law.
Contact Chesed Shel Emes of Greater Washington |
Other Assistance Resources- Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services offer a burial assistance program. This program will grant up to $650 towards funeral expenses provided that the total expenses do not exceed $1500. Phone: 311
- Social Security Death Benefits: You will need to report your loved ones death to the Social Security Administration by calling 800-772-1213. Surviving spouse and dependent children may be eligible to receive death and survivor benefits through them. - Travel Expenses: If you or your family members need to travel from out of town to attend the funeral, you may be able to obtain discounted airfares called "bereavement fares". - Veterans Affairs will pay up to $300 towards burial expenses (for non-service related deaths). Contact the VA at 800-827-1000 and have copy of military separation document. - Wills and Estates: Whether or not your loved one has a will, you may need to contact the court to open an estate, if your loved one owned any real estate or personal property (including vehicles), so that the property can be legally transferred to the survivors. For more information, contact your attorney or the County Registrar of Wills at 240-777-9600. - Maryland Criminal Injuries Compensation Board: Applicants (regardless of income) may be reimbursed up to $5000 for funeral expenses if loved one was the victim of negligent death or homicide. Call 888-679-9347 for more information. |
Who Qualifies? Applicant requires a reference by any one of the Orthodox Rabbinical leaders in the Greater Washington area.