The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) offers death and burial assistance to provide financial support for indigent families who have lost a loved one. The program aims to help cover funeral and burial expenses, alleviating some of the financial burden faced by bereaved families during this difficult time.
Also read: How to Apply DSWD Medical Cash Assistance in Cebu
By offering this assistance, DSWD intends to ease the financial stress associated with funeral arrangements, allowing families to focus on the grieving process and supporting each other. The program also aims to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their financial situation, can provide a dignified burial for their loved ones.
Benefits of Death and Burial Assistance From DSWD
The Death and Burial Assistance program from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provides several benefits to indigent families in need of financial help during a difficult time.
These benefits include:
- Financial Support: The primary benefit of the DSWD Death and Burial Assistance program is financial support to cover funeral and burial expenses, helping ease the financial burden on the bereaved family.
- Timely Assistance: The DSWD aims to provide financial assistance within a short timeframe (1 day for amounts less than 10,000 PHP and 3-5 days for amounts more than 10,000 PHP), ensuring that families receive timely help during their time of need.
- Simplified Application Process: The application process for DSWD Death and Burial Assistance is designed to be straightforward and accessible, with clear steps and minimal documentation requirements to ensure that eligible families can quickly access the assistance they need.
- Compassionate Support: DSWD social workers and staff are trained to provide compassionate support and guidance to grieving families, ensuring that they receive not only financial assistance but also emotional support during a challenging time.
- Access to Additional Services: The DSWD may also connect families with other relevant programs and services, such as counseling, livelihood assistance, and other social welfare initiatives, depending on the family’s needs and circumstances.
- Community Involvement: The DSWD Death and Burial Assistance program fosters community involvement by working closely with local government units (LGUs) and barangay officials, ensuring that assistance reaches those most in need at the grassroots level.
By providing financial assistance and compassionate support to indigent families during the difficult time of losing a loved one, the DSWD Death and Burial Assistance program helps alleviate some of the stress and financial burden associated with funeral and burial expenses.
Qualifications of the DSWD Death and Burial Assistance
To qualify for the DSWD Death and Burial Assistance, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Indigent families: The assistance is primarily intended for indigent families who are unable to cover funeral and burial expenses due to financial constraints.
- Proof of relationship: Applicants must provide documentation proving their relationship to the deceased, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate.
- Proof of death: A death certificate or other valid document confirming the death of the individual must be submitted.
- Financial need: Applicants may be required to present proof of indigency, such as a barangay certification or other documents that demonstrate financial hardship.
- No other sources of financial assistance: The applicant should not have received or be entitled to receive similar assistance from other government agencies or non-governmental organizations for the same purpose.
Please note that eligibility requirements may vary depending on the local DSWD office, so it is essential to consult with your nearest DSWD office for specific information about the application process and requirements.
Burial Assistance Requirements
To apply for DSWD Death and Burial Assistance, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Registered Death Certificate: An official document certifying the death of the deceased person.
- Funeral Contract: A contract or agreement with the funeral service provider detailing the services and costs involved in the funeral and burial process.
- Permit to Transfer (transport of cadaver): If applicable, a permit allowing the transportation of the deceased’s body from one location to another.
- Barangay Certificate/any valid ID: A certificate from the barangay indicating your residency or any valid ID proving your identity.
- Social Case Study report from LGU (optional): A case study report provided by the local government unit (LGU) assessing your financial situation and eligibility for assistance. This may be optional, depending on the DSWD office’s requirements.
- Referral/Endorsement Letter from legislator, if applicable: If you have received a referral or endorsement from a legislator, include their letter as part of your application.
Please note that specific requirements may vary depending on the local DSWD office. It is essential to consult with your nearest DSWD office for accurate information about the application process and documentation requirements.
Also read: CHAMP: A Guide to City Hospitalization Assistance in Cebu
Steps on How to Apply for Death and Burial Assistance for Walk-in Applicants
The application process for DSWD Death and Burial Assistance typically involves the following steps:
Step 1: Get a stub number and register the name with the guard on duty
- Person-in-charge: Guard on Duty
Step 2: Proceed to CIU (Crisis Intervention Unit) Office and wait for the number to be called for screening
- Person-in-charge: Screening Officer
Step 3: Interview/Assessment for the assistance needed
- Person-in-charge: Social Workers
Step 4: Recommendation/Action Taken for the assistance requested
- Person-in-charge: Social Workers
Step 5: Review and Approval of the Officer-in-Charge to the Social Worker’s recommendation for the assistance being requested by the client
- Person-in-charge: Officer-in-Charge, CIU Sub-Office
Step 6: The client will receive the approved assistance whether a financial/guarantee/referral letter
- Person-in-charge: CIU Officer-in-Charge (designated disbursing officer) for the financial assistance; Social Worker for the guarantee/referral letter
Step 7: The client to affix their signature as proof of the assistance given
- Person-in-charge: Disbursing Officer
Please note that these steps may vary slightly depending on the specific DSWD office you visit. Always consult with your local DSWD office for accurate information about the application process and requirements.
Cash Aid Disbursement
Once your application for DSWD Death and Burial Assistance has been approved, the cash aid disbursement process begins. The disbursement method may vary depending on the local DSWD office, but generally, the following options are available:
- Designated Payment Center: DSWD may partner with specific payment centers or remittance services to distribute the cash aid. In this case, you will receive instructions on which payment center to visit and what identification documents to bring with you to claim the funds.
- Bank Transfer: The cash aid may be disbursed through a direct bank transfer to the beneficiary’s bank account. You will need to provide your bank account details during the application process or upon approval. Once the transfer is complete, you will receive a confirmation or notification from the DSWD or your bank.
- Cash Pick-up at DSWD Office: In some cases, you may be required to visit the DSWD office to collect the cash aid in person. You will need to bring your valid ID and any other required documents for verification purposes.
- Mobile Money Transfer: If available, the DSWD might use mobile money transfer services to send the cash aid directly to the beneficiary’s mobile wallet. This method requires the applicant to have an active mobile wallet account with a supported provider.
It is essential to follow the specific instructions provided by the DSWD regarding the cash aid disbursement method. The disbursement process may also be subject to delays due to factors such as high demand, limited resources, or unforeseen circumstances. It is recommended to stay in contact with your local DSWD office for updates and assistance throughout the process.
Also read: A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for PCSO Medical Assistance in Cebu
Processing Time for DSWD Death and Burial Assistance
1. For cash outright
- Maximum of 45 minutes per client
2. For issuance of guarantee/referral letter
- Maximum of 15-20 minutes per client
3. For processing of check
- Three (3) to five (5) days
Please note that these processing times are approximate and may be subject to change due to factors such as high demand, limited resources, or unforeseen circumstances. It is recommended to stay in contact with your local DSWD office for updates and assistance throughout the process.
Video: PAANO MAG-APPLY NG BURIAL & FUNERAL ASSISTANCE SA DSWD WALK-IN? | DSWD CASH ASSISTANCE
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is DSWD Death and Burial Assistance?
A: DSWD Death and Burial Assistance is a financial aid program provided by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the Philippines to help indigent families cover funeral and burial expenses.
2. Who is eligible for this assistance?
A: Indigent families who are unable to cover funeral and burial expenses due to financial constraints and meet the program’s eligibility criteria can apply for this assistance.
3. Where can I apply for the DSWD Death and Burial Assistance?
A: You can apply at your nearest DSWD office or satellite office. Visit the DSWD website or contact your local government unit for information on the location of DSWD offices.
4. How long does it take to receive the financial assistance after the application is approved?
A: If the approved amount is less than 10,000 PHP, the assistance is typically released within one day. If the amount is 10,000 PHP or more, it may take 3 to 5 days for the assistance to be released.
5. Can I apply for the assistance if I have received similar aid from another government agency or NGO?
A: No, you must not have received or be entitled to receive similar assistance from other government agencies or non-governmental organizations for the same purpose.
6. Is there a deadline for applying for the DSWD Death and Burial Assistance?
A: There is no specific deadline for applying, but it is recommended to apply as soon as possible after the death of a family member to ensure timely processing and assistance.
7. Are there any limitations on how the financial assistance can be used?
A: The financial assistance must be used for funeral and burial expenses only. Misuse of the funds may lead to penalties or disqualification from future assistance programs.
8. What should I do if my application is denied or if I encounter issues during the application process?
A: If your application is denied or you face any issues, consult with your local DSWD office for clarification and guidance on the next steps. They may provide information on alternative assistance programs or help you address any issues with your application.
Summary
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provides a range of financial assistance programs to help struggling individuals and families in the Philippines. One of their important offerings is the Cash Aid Death and Burial Assistance, which aims to help bereaved families cover the funeral expenses of their loved ones.
The program provides a lump sum payment of Php 10,000 to eligible families who pass the assessment criteria. This benefit can make a significant difference for those who may not have the financial means to pay for the death and burial expenses. Through this program, the DSWD emphasizes their commitment to supporting those who are vulnerable and need help when it matters most.
Contact Information
Contact Number: (032) 233 0261
Email: fo7@dswd.gov.ph
Website: fo7.dswd.gov.ph
