Losing a loved one is never easy. Apart from the emotional pain, families often face financial challenges, especially when arranging funerals and burial services. Fortunately, many South African municipalities offer burial discounts to help ease this burden, particularly for those in lower income groups.
This guide will explain how to apply for a burial discount from your local municipality, what documents you need, and what to expect during the process.
What is a Burial Discount?
A burial discount is a reduction in the fees charged by the municipality for burial-related services. These discounts help make funerals more affordable for families who cannot pay full burial fees. The discount can cover:
Cemetery fees (use of gravesite)
Burial permits
Transport and grave digging fees
Other associated services
Municipalities offer these discounts based on need, which often means you must meet certain income or living standards criteria.
Who Qualifies for a Burial Discount?
Not everyone qualifies automatically. Generally, burial discounts are available for:
Families from low-income households
Social grant recipients (such as the Older Person’s Grant or Disability Grant)
Recipients of government support or relief programs
People living in informal settlements or poorer areas
Those who cannot afford full burial costs
Each municipality may have its own qualification rules, so it’s important to check with your local municipal office.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Burial Discount
Step 1: Contact Your Local Municipality
Your first step should be to visit or call the municipal office responsible for cemeteries and burial services. This could be the:
Customer Care Centre
Cemeteries Department
Social Services or Welfare Department
Ask them for the burial discount application form and any specific guidelines for your area.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You will usually need the following documents to apply for a burial discount:
ID document of the deceased
ID documents of the applicant (family member or legal representative)
Proof of residence (e.g., municipal utility bill or affidavit if no formal proof is available)
Income proof or affidavit showing low income or no income
Death certificate or notification of death
Social grant card or proof of grant (if applicable)
Burial permit (if already issued)
Make sure to check the exact documents needed from your municipality as requirements may vary.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Fill out the burial discount form carefully. You may be asked to provide:
Your personal details and contact information
Details of the deceased (name, date of death, ID number)
Reason for requesting a discount
Proof of income or financial hardship
If you need help filling out the form, municipal staff or social workers can assist you.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Take your completed form and all required documents back to the municipal office. Submit these to the relevant department or person in charge.
Some municipalities may allow you to submit applications online or by email, but most still prefer in-person submission.
Step 5: Wait for the Municipality’s Response
After submitting your application, the municipality will review your documents and assess your eligibility. This process can take a few days to a couple of weeks.
You may be contacted for further information or asked to provide additional documents. Stay in touch with the office handling your application.
Step 6: Receive Your Burial Discount Approval
If your application is approved, you will receive a letter or official document confirming the discount amount. This discount will then be applied to your burial fees.
Step 7: Pay the Reduced Burial Fees
With your approval in hand, you can pay the discounted fees at the municipality. Keep all receipts and documentation for your records.
Learn More: How to Register for the Indigent Relief Programme in Ekurhuleni
Additional Tips When Applying for a Burial Discount
Apply early: As soon as possible after the death, begin the application to avoid delays in burial arrangements.
Be honest: Provide accurate and truthful information to prevent your application from being rejected.
Seek assistance: Local social workers, NGOs, or community leaders may help you with the application process.
Know your rights: Municipalities must provide burial discounts fairly and transparently.
Follow up: If you haven’t heard back after two weeks, call the municipality for an update.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Missing documents: Sometimes families don’t have formal proof of income or residence. In such cases, an affidavit from a local ward councillor or community leader may help.
Slow processing: Municipal offices can be slow due to high demand. Persistence and regular follow-up are key.
Limited information: Some people are unaware of burial discounts. Always ask at your municipality even if you think you may not qualify.
Where to Get More Help
If your municipality does not have a burial discount program or you need extra help, consider contacting:
Social Development offices in your area
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that provide funeral assistance
Local churches or community groups who may offer support
Conclusion
Applying for a burial discount from your local municipality can ease the financial burden during a difficult time. By knowing the steps and preparing your documents ahead, you can navigate the process more smoothly and secure the help you need.
Remember, every municipality may have slightly different procedures, so always check with your local office for the most accurate information.
