Financial Assistance

At Marsden House Funeral Services it is important to us that we meet the needs of our client families. Part of this involves ensuring that the costs associated with the funeral fall within the budget of the family. It is therefore important that your funeral director is informed of particular family requirements from the outset.

If you would like to request an estimate of funeral costs to assist you in pre-planning, please contact us and we will forward this to you. Any information provided on your requirements is helpful. Also, whether the funeral will involve a burial or cremation.


The Funeral Account

Our funeral director will give you a full estimate at the time of the funeral arrangement.

The funeral account is sent to the family two weeks from the date of death and is due for payment within six weeks of invoice.

The company’s policy on its credit facilities is outlined to the family on our company authority form, which is signed by the person giving the instructions at the time of the funeral arrangement.


Payment Options

Marsden House accepts payment in the form of cash, cheque, EFTPOS, direct credit, Visa or Mastercard.


Financial Assistance from Other Agencies

Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) have a funeral grant that may be available to those who cannot pay the full cost of a funeral. The grant is asset tested and payable, at present, to a maximum of $1820.08* (2009). Our funeral director will assist you on how to apply for this grant.

Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) has a funeral grant of $5429.92* (2009) for deaths occurring as the result of an accident or medical misadventure.

You cannot claim a funeral grant from both WINZ and ACC.

Medical insurance companies also have a range of death covers. Check with your insurance company to find out whether this is included in your policy.

The Nelson South Credit Union has loans available to meet funeral expenses, subject to their Lenders Policies, which give you time payment options. If you are interested, they can meet with you and explain further.

* Please note: Above amounts may be subject to change.