The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security urges the public to have confidence. "Funeral Aid Associations" Only 10 have been cancelled; over 3,800 continue to be strongly managed.
On 19 Feb 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Kantapong Rangsisawang, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, addressed online sharing regarding the dissolution of funeral aid associations. Currently, there are 3,839 officially registered funeral aid associations operating normally nationwide, most of which remain strong with active members and management committees.
Between April 2025 and February 2026, only 10 funeral aid associations have been dissolved and announced in the Government Gazette, not a nationwide cancellation. Reasons include voluntary dissolution by a general meeting resolution due to lack of members or inability to continue operations, misconduct or fraud, and lack of management committee members. The local registrar (subdistrict administrative organization head or mayor) has the authority to order dissolution after inspection and review, then forwards the case to the central registrar (Director-General of the Department of Women's Affairs and Family Development, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security), who issues the Government Gazette announcement and disseminates it. The announcement is also sent back to the local registrar to inform the public. The process then moves to liquidation, asset and liability assessment. Remaining assets are transferred to other funeral aid associations or public benefit organizations per regulations, or to the state if unspecified.
Membership in a funeral aid association is not a savings, deposit, or life insurance but a mutual agreement to assist with funeral expenses. Paid contributions support members who have passed away and are non-refundable, regarded as a charitable act. Refunds apply only to unused advance assistance payments. Oversight is strictly governed by the Funeral Aid Association Act B.E. 2545 (2002), covering registration, regulations, membership records, income-expense reports, and annual balance sheets. There are two levels of registrars: local and central, who balance and inspect the associations' operations with full authority over finances, activities, and management committees.
It is reaffirmed that the other 3,839 funeral aid associations maintain strong operational and management status, led by administrators complying with legal requirements and protecting members' rights. This is supported by law and close supervision by local and central registrars.
The public is also warned to be cautious of misinformation that may cause social panic and could be criminally liable. It is emphasized that no nationwide dissolution has occurred; only 10 associations have been cancelled. Most funeral aid associations continue normal operations with clear oversight mechanisms to assure members and interested parties.
Current members should comply with regulations and maintain membership status, as premature withdrawal results in loss of rights. Prospective members should verify the association's stability, financial statements, transparency, and adherence to objectives. For concerns or more information, contact the Ministry hotline at 1300, available 24 hours, or consult the local registrar of the specific funeral aid association.