Help Paying for Burial or Cremation Through the County Assistance Office

Pennsylvania’s Department of Human Services offers help with burial or cremation costs for people who meet its eligibility rules. The local County Assistance Office determines eligibility.

In Berks County, contact the assistance office at 610-736-4211 or 1-866-215-3912 to ask about the application and required information. Eligibility can depend on the deceased person’s benefits or assistance status; the state page explains the qualifying categories.

The funeral director must be registered with DHS to receive payment. The provider-enrollment number is for funeral directors, so it is not the resident contact listed here.

Source: pa.gov/agencies/dhs/resources/for-residents/burial-cremation, read September 18, 2026.

The details

Who it’s for
Who is eligible for this service? Individuals who received Supplemental Security Income or SSI. Individuals receiving cash benefits from the Department of Human Services prior to death. Individuals who were found eligible for cash assistance prior to death. Residents of nursing homes who received SSI or nursing home care payments prior to Jan. 1, 1973, continuously to the present.
Read the rest

Eligibility for assistance with burial costs is determined by the local county assistance offices (CAOs).

Area: PennsylvaniaAdults, Seniors, Families
CostNot stated on their site.
How to apply
Eligibility for assistance with burial costs is determined by the local county assistance offices (CAOs).
WhereBerks County Assistance Office, Reading State Office Building, 625 Cherry Street, Reading, PA 19602Get directions →More in Reading
Websitepa.gov
CheckedChecked September 18, 2026

In Berks County Assistance Office’s words

The Department of Human Services will provide payment for burial and cremation services on behalf of eligible individuals.

Organization

Berks County Assistance Office

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About this listing

This listing summarizes publicly available information from pa.gov/agencies/dhs/resources/for-residents/burial-cremation. Last recorded review: September 18, 2026. Contact the provider to confirm eligibility, hours and availability before you go. If something here is wrong, tell us.

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