The non-contributory pension is payable for 6 weeks after death if the lady was claiming for an adult dependant on her pension.
The Bereavement Grant is based on PRSI contributions. As the lady was on a non-contributory pension, this suggests that there were insufficient or no PRSI contributions.
If the family have difficulty in meeting the funeral costs, they can apply for an Exceptional Needs Payment from the CWO at the health centre. There is no automatic entitlement to a payment, however each case will be dealt with on its merits. The family member who managed the arrangements (e.g. the person who has been billed by the funeral directors) can make an application at his/her local health centre.