Funeral Allowance: Eligibility and Application

When a person loses a loved one, they often have to face practical questions in addition to grief.

The state therefore offers one-off financial assistance – a funeral allowance, which is intended to help cover part of the costs associated with the funeral.

This is not a form of charity, but support at a time when the bereaved person is taking care of the most essential thing – a dignified farewell.

What is a funeral allowance?

Funeral allowance is a one-off payment provided by the Czech Labour Office.
It is intended for the person who actually paid for the funeral, i.e. the person who ordered the funeral – not the deceased or their heirs..

This benefit is regulated by Act No. 117/1995 Coll., on State Social Support.
Its purpose is to help with part of the funeral costs and to show respect for those who, despite the gravity of the situation, provide for the last things of a loved one.

A funeral allowance will not replace the loss, but it can bring a little security in an uncertain period.

Who is entitled to funeral allowance?

Those eligible for the benefit are persons who:

• have ordered and paid for the funeral,
• are citizens of the Czech Republic or have permanent residence in the Czech Republic,
• can provide an invoice or other document confirming payment for the funeral issued in their name.

Funeral allowance is paid to only one applicant.

A special rule applies if a dependent child or parent of a dependent child is buried – here a claim arises by law, even if the applicant was not the one paying for the funeral.

What is the funeral allowance amount in 2026?

The funeral allowance remains CZK 5,000 in 2026.
The amount has not changed since 2008.

Although it may seem symbolic, for many families it means tangible help – for example, with the payment of basic expenses or the transport of an urn. The payment of the allowance is not dependent on the applicant’s income.

How to apply for the funeral allowance – step by step

Where to apply

• At the Labour Office of the Czech Republic, according to the applicant’s permanent residence.
• In person, by mail or electronically via the Integrated Portal of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs: www.uradprace.cz/web/cz/pohrebne

What will you need?

• a completed application for funeral allowance,
• the applicant’s ID card,
• death certificate of the deceased,
• proof of payment for the funeral (e.g. an invoice from the funeral service issued in the applicant’s name).

The form can be obtained directly from the Labour Office or downloaded online.

Application deadline

The application must be submitted within 1 year of the death.
After this period, the claim expires.

How the application is processed

The Labour Office will assess the claim and, once approved, they pay the allowance to a bank account or via postal order. The process usually takes several weeks.

How PEGAS can help you

At PEGAS Funeral Home, we know that administration after a death can be challenging.

We can help you with:

• filling out the application form,
• issuing the necessary documents for the office,
• or consulting whether you are entitled to funeral benefits.

You can contact us anytime – we will help you find a path that is both practical and sensitive. Call +420 800 176 423.