Determining if a funeral cost is reasonable

MSD must always determine if a funeral cost is a reasonable funeral expense before it can be included in the Funeral Grant assessment.

MSD may determine any cost to be reasonable if it is:

• related to the proper disposal of the body
• associated with tikanga practices related to tangihanga
• related to any service or ceremony including but not limited to:
  • cultural, spiritual, or religious practices
  • other customs in respect or commemoration of the person who has died

If a cost does not fit into one of the above categories, MSD must still determine if it is reasonable.

Note this includes giving consideration to secular or personalised funerals.

If MSD needs more information to determine if a cost is reasonable, this must be requested with sensitivity and in a way that upholds the dignity of both the deceased person and the person being asked.

Tiana has applied for a Funeral Grant for her brother Tama's tangihanga costs.

Included in the tangihanga costs is $1,050 for kai (food), which was verified with receipts.

The cost of kai (food) is a reasonable funeral expense and can be included in the assessment of Funeral Grant.

In most cases, costs that arise directly from a funeral should not be scrutinised.

Note if it cannot be determined that a funeral cost is reasonable, MSD may exercise discretion to consider it to be reasonable and include it in the Funeral Grant assessment.

If MSD staff are unsure if a funeral cost is reasonable, they can contact Helpline for advice.