The amount available depends on several factors, including the claimant’s relationship with the person who died, when the claim is made, and whether certain conditions linked to children or pregnancy apply. According to the DWP guidance, the payment is not means-tested, meaning income and savings do not affect eligibility.
How Bereavement Support Payment Amounts Are Calculated
Bereavement Support Payment is paid at different rates depending on the claimant’s circumstances at the time of their partner’s death. For people who were married or in a registered civil partnership, the higher rate applies if they were receiving Child Benefit for a child living with them, had been told they were entitled to Child Benefit for such a child, or were pregnant.
According to the government information, those who qualify for the higher rate can receive a one-off payment of £3,500 and 18 monthly payments of £350. People who do not qualify for the higher rate may receive a lower payment of £2,500 followed by 18 monthly payments of £100.
The rules also cover some unmarried couples. A person who was living with their partner as if they were married can qualify if they meet the conditions set out by the government, including requirements linked to children or pregnancy. The benefit is available where the partner who died met National Insurance contribution requirements, or where their death was caused by an accident at work or a disease caused by work.
The timing of the claim affects how much support can be received. A claim made within three months of the partner’s death allows the claimant to receive the full payment period. Claims made later may receive fewer monthly payments, depending on how much time has passed.
Eligibility Rules and How to Make a Claim
To qualify for Bereavement Support Payment, the claimant must generally have been under State Pension age when their partner died and must have been living in the UK or another country that pays bereavement benefits. The claimant must also have been married, in a civil partnership, or living with their partner in a qualifying relationship.
According to Age UK, people should claim within three months of the death to receive the full amount. The organisation also explains that claims can be backdated for up to three months, meaning delays in applying can reduce the number of monthly payments received.
The DWP states that claims can usually be made up to 21 months after the partner’s death, although exceptions may apply in specific situations, such as when the cause of death was confirmed later. Applications can be submitted online, by telephone or by post.
Applicants need details including their National Insurance number, their partner’s National Insurance number, the date of death and bank account information. The Bereavement Service helpline is available for people who need assistance with the application process.
Bereavement Support Payment does not affect other benefits for the first year after the first payment. After that period, any remaining lump sum may be considered when assessing some means-tested benefits if it takes a person’s savings above the relevant threshold.
