Bereavement Support Payment

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The loss of a partner can often make things difficult financially. To help you during this challenging time, the UK government offers the Bereavement Support Payment, effective from April 6 2017. From this date, the Bereavement Support Payment has replaced the old three-tiered system of Bereavement Payment, Bereavement Allowance and Widowed Parent’s Allowance.

How much is the Bereavement Support Payment?

The Bereavement Support Payment consists of a lump sum and monthly payments for a period of 18 months. There are two rates of support, depending on whether or not you have dependent children.

Surviving spouses or civil partners who are pregnant or have dependent children will receive:

• A one-off lump sum of £3,500
• £350 a month for 18 months

Surviving spouses or civil partners who do not have dependent children will receive:

• A one-off lump sum of £2,500
• £100 a month for 18 months

Am I eligible for the Bereavement Support Payment?

The Bereavement Support Payment is available to those who have lost a spouse or civil partner. It is not available to those who have lost an unmarried or cohabiting partner.

When your spouse or civil partner died you must have been under State Pension age. You cannot claim the Bereavement Support Payment if you are in prison.

How do I claim the Bereavement Support Payment?

If you are eligible to receive the Bereavement Support Payment, you can download the appropriate forms online.