Using GoFundMe for Funeral Expenses

GoFundMe has become one of the most common ways families raise money for funeral expenses when insurance, savings, or other resources fall short. The platform allows you to create a fundraising campaign that friends, family, and community members can contribute to during a difficult time.

When someone dies unexpectedly or without life insurance, funeral costs can create immediate financial stress. The average funeral costs between $7,000 and $12,000, according to the National Funeral Directors Association. GoFundMe provides a straightforward way to ask for help covering these expenses.

How GoFundMe Works for Funeral Fundraising

Setting up a GoFundMe campaign for funeral expenses takes about 15 minutes. You create a page with photos, tell the person’s story, explain what happened, and set a fundraising goal. People can then donate any amount they choose.

The platform processes donations through credit cards, debit cards, and PayPal. GoFundMe takes a 2.9% payment processing fee plus $0.30 per donation. There are no platform fees beyond the payment processing costs.

You can withdraw funds as soon as donations come in, which helps when funeral homes require payment upfront. Money typically transfers to your bank account within 2-5 business days.

Setting Your Fundraising Goal

Most successful funeral GoFundMe campaigns set specific, realistic goals based on actual funeral costs. Research funeral home prices in your area or get quotes before setting your target amount.

Consider these typical funeral expenses when setting your goal:

• Funeral home services: $2,000 to $5,000
• Casket or cremation container: $1,000 to $4,000
• Burial plot or cremation: $1,000 to $4,000
• Memorial service venue and catering: $500 to $2,000
• Flowers, programs, and other items: $300 to $800

You can always increase your goal if additional expenses arise or if the response exceeds expectations.

Writing an Effective Campaign Description

Your campaign description should tell the person’s story while explaining why you need financial help. Start with who the person was and what they meant to family and friends.

Explain what happened, especially if the death was sudden or unexpected. People want to understand the circumstances before deciding to donate.

Be specific about how donations will be used. Instead of saying “funeral expenses,” break down the costs: “We need $3,000 for funeral home services, $1,500 for burial costs, and $500 for a memorial reception.”

Include 2-3 good photos of the person. Pictures help potential donors connect with your story and make the campaign feel more personal.

Keep the tone respectful and factual. Avoid overly emotional language or excessive details about the person’s death.

Sharing Your Campaign

GoFundMe campaigns succeed when they reach the right people. Start by sharing with immediate family and close friends, then expand to the broader community.

Share the campaign link on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Ask family members to share it with their networks as well.

Send the link directly to people who knew the person well, including coworkers, neighbors, and members of religious or community organizations.

Consider asking local community groups, sports teams, or clubs to share the campaign if the person was involved with them.

Post updates as donations come in to thank supporters and keep momentum going. Updates also help the campaign appear in more people’s GoFundMe feeds.

Managing the Campaign

Check the campaign regularly to respond to comments and thank donors. Personal acknowledgments help build trust and encourage others to donate.

Post updates when you reach milestones, like 50% of your goal or when you’re able to make payments to the funeral home. These updates show donors how their contributions are making a difference.

Be transparent about how money is being used. If costs change or you need to adjust the goal, explain why in an update.

Keep the campaign active by sharing it multiple times over several days or weeks. People don’t always see posts the first time, so repeated sharing helps reach more potential donors.

Legal and Tax Considerations

Money raised through GoFundMe for funeral expenses is generally considered a gift to the recipient and is not taxable income. However, you should consult with a tax professional if you receive a large amount.

The person who creates the GoFundMe account is responsible for managing the funds and ensuring they’re used for the stated purpose. If you’re organizing on behalf of someone else, make sure they understand how the money will be distributed.

GoFundMe may require identity verification for campaigns that raise significant amounts. Have identification documents ready if requested.

Alternative Platforms and Options

While GoFundMe is the most popular choice, other platforms like Facebook Fundraisers, YouCaring, or JustGiving also support funeral fundraising. Facebook Fundraisers have the advantage of no platform fees.

Some funeral homes work with families to set up payment plans or may recommend specific fundraising platforms they’re familiar with.

Consider combining online fundraising with other approaches like benefit dinners, car washes, or collecting donations at the funeral service itself.

If the person was a veteran, check with the Department of Veterans Affairs about burial benefits that might reduce costs.

When GoFundMe Isn’t Enough

If your GoFundMe campaign doesn’t raise enough money to cover all funeral costs, you have several options. Many funeral homes offer payment plans that allow you to pay over time.

Look into lower-cost funeral options like direct cremation or simple burial services. You can always hold a separate memorial service later.

Some religious organizations, community groups, or local charities provide assistance with funeral expenses for families in need.

Contact the funeral home to discuss reducing costs by choosing a less expensive casket, simplifying the service, or eliminating certain extras.

Privacy and Safety Considerations

GoFundMe campaigns are public, which means anyone can view them and see donor information. Consider this when sharing personal details about the person who died or family circumstances.

Be cautious about sharing too much personal information that could be used inappropriately. Stick to basic facts about the person’s life and the circumstances requiring fundraising help.

Monitor comments on your campaign and remove any inappropriate posts. GoFundMe allows campaign organizers to moderate comments and block users if necessary.

If you’re concerned about privacy, you can create the campaign with minimal personal details and share additional information privately with people you trust.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I keep my GoFundMe campaign active?

Most funeral GoFundMe campaigns run for 30-60 days. You can keep them active longer if donations are still coming in, but activity typically drops off after the first month. Close the campaign once you’ve reached your goal or covered the necessary expenses.

Can I withdraw money before reaching my goal?

Yes, you can withdraw funds from GoFundMe as soon as donations are received. You don’t need to wait until you reach your full goal. This is helpful when funeral homes require upfront payment.

What happens if I raise more money than needed?

If your campaign raises more than your goal, you can use the extra funds for related expenses like memorial services, flowers, or supporting the family during their time of grief. Update your campaign to let donors know how additional funds will be used.

How do I handle taxes on GoFundMe donations?

GoFundMe donations are typically considered gifts and are not taxable income to the recipient. However, if you receive more than $15,000 from a single donor, gift tax rules may apply. Consult a tax professional for guidance on large donations.

Can I edit my campaign after it’s published?

Yes, you can edit your GoFundMe campaign description, photos, and goal amount at any time. This is useful if circumstances change or if you need to provide updates to donors. Major changes should be explained in campaign updates.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or financial advice. Always consult qualified professionals for guidance specific to your situation.