What Are Bereavement Benefits?
Bereavement benefits are a type of financial support provided by the UK government to help people cope with the loss of a close family member. Their main purpose is to ease the immediate financial pressure that can arise when a spouse, civil partner, or in some cases, a dependent dies. These benefits are designed to support those left behind as they adjust to changes in income and circumstances following a bereavement.
There are two main types of bereavement benefits currently available in the UK:
Bereavement Support Payment: This is the primary benefit for people whose husband, wife, or civil partner has died. It usually consists of a one-off lump sum followed by monthly payments for up to 18 months. The amount you receive depends on your circumstances, such as whether you have dependent children.
Other related support: In addition to the main bereavement benefit, there are other forms of help, such as Funeral Expenses Payment to help with funeral costs, and Guardian’s Allowance for those raising a child whose parents have died.
Bereavement benefits are generally intended for people who were married to or in a civil partnership with the person who has died. In some cases, cohabiting partners may also be eligible, depending on recent changes in the law and specific eligibility criteria. The rules are set out in UK legislation, including the Bereavement Support Payment Regulations 2017. Eligibility often depends on factors such as your relationship to the deceased, their National Insurance contributions, and the date of death.
These benefits form part of the wider benefits system in the UK, which offers various types of financial support for people facing different life events, such as unemployment, illness, or disability. Bereavement benefits are specifically focused on providing help during one of life’s most difficult times.
For a full overview of what support is available, who can claim, and how to apply, visit Bereavement Benefits on the official GOV.UK website. This resource covers not only bereavement payments but also other types of financial help and practical support after someone dies.
Who Can Claim Bereavement Benefits?
Who Can Claim Bereavement Benefits?
Bereavement benefits are designed to provide financial support to people in the UK who have lost a husband, wife, or civil partner. However, not everyone affected by a bereavement will be eligible. Understanding the eligibility rules can help you determine whether you might qualify and what steps you need to take.
Relationship to the Deceased
To claim bereavement benefits, you must have been married to or in a civil partnership with the person who has died. If you were living together as a couple but were not married or in a civil partnership, you are not eligible for these benefits, even if you had children together.
Example:
Eligible: Sarah was married to John when he passed away. She can apply for bereavement benefits.
Not eligible: Tom and Lisa lived together as partners for many years but were not married or in a civil partnership. Tom cannot claim bereavement benefits after Lisa’s death.
Age Requirements
You must be under State Pension age when your partner dies to qualify for bereavement benefits. If you are over State Pension age, you will not be able to claim these specific benefits but may be entitled to other forms of support.
Residency Requirements
Bereavement benefits are available to people who live in the UK or certain other countries. Generally, you must have been living in the UK at the time of your partner’s death, or in a country where the UK has a relevant social security agreement.
National Insurance Contributions
The person who has died must have paid a minimum level of National Insurance contributions during their working life for you to receive bereavement benefits. The rules can be complex, but in general, the deceased must have made contributions for at least 25 weeks in one tax year or have paid sufficient contributions throughout their working life. For more detail on how these contributions affect eligibility, you can read the National Insurance contributions section in the Bereavement Support Payment – Commons Library briefing – UK Parliament.
Circumstances That Can Affect Eligibility
Remarriage or New Civil Partnership: If you remarry or enter a new civil partnership after your partner’s death, you can still apply, but only if you meet all other criteria and apply within three months of the death.
Date of Death: Bereavement Support Payment replaced previous bereavement benefits for those widowed on or after 6 April 2017. If your partner died before this date, different rules may apply.
Children: Having children is not a requirement for bereavement benefits, but some additional support may be available if you are responsible for children.
Who Cannot Claim?
Unmarried partners or those not in a civil partnership.
People over State Pension age.
Anyone whose partner did not pay enough National Insurance contributions.
Individuals living outside the UK or a qualifying country.
Practical Advice
If you are unsure about your eligibility, it is helpful to gather key documents such as your marriage or civil partnership certificate, your partner’s National Insurance number, and details of their employment history. This will make it easier to check if the criteria are met.
For a comprehensive explanation of the rules and how National Insurance contributions affect your claim, see the National Insurance contributions section in the official parliamentary briefing.
Understanding these requirements can help you decide whether it is worth making a claim and what other support might be available if you are not eligible for bereavement benefits.
Types of Bereavement Benefits
Types of Bereavement Benefits
When someone close to you dies, bereavement benefits can provide financial support to help you cope with the immediate and ongoing costs. In the UK, there are several main types of bereavement benefits, each with its own eligibility criteria, payment structure, and duration. Understanding the differences can help you decide which support may be available to you.
Bereavement Support Payment
The Bereavement Support Payment is the main benefit now offered to people whose husband, wife, or civil partner has died. It is designed to provide financial help during the difficult period following a bereavement. This benefit is made up of a one-off lump sum payment, followed by up to 18 monthly payments. The amount you receive depends on your circumstances, such as whether you have dependent children.
To qualify, you must have been under State Pension age when your partner died, and your partner must have paid National Insurance contributions for at least 25 weeks, or died due to an accident at work or a disease caused by work. For a detailed explanation of eligibility, how much you could receive, and how to claim, visit Bereavement Support Payment explained | Age UK.
Bereavement Allowance
Bereavement Allowance was a benefit for people aged 45 or over, but below State Pension age, whose spouse or civil partner died before 6 April 2017. It is no longer open to new applicants, but if you are already receiving it, your payments will continue for up to 52 weeks from the date of bereavement. The amount is based on your age at the time of your partner’s death and their National Insurance record. Since this benefit is being phased out, most new claims are now directed towards Bereavement Support Payment.
Widowed Parent’s Allowance
Widowed Parent’s Allowance is for people with dependent children whose husband, wife, or civil partner died before 6 April 2017. Like Bereavement Allowance, it is closed to new applicants after this date, but existing recipients will continue to get support. The amount is based on your late partner’s National Insurance contributions and continues as long as you are eligible for Child Benefit.
If you need practical guidance on claiming this benefit, including how it might affect other support you receive, see Widowed Parents Allowance.
Lump Sum vs. Ongoing Payments
Bereavement Support Payment combines a lump sum with ongoing monthly payments, helping with immediate costs and providing a cushion for the months ahead. In contrast, the older Bereavement Allowance and Widowed Parent’s Allowance provided regular payments only, with no initial lump sum.
Who Can Claim Each Benefit?
Bereavement Support Payment: For spouses or civil partners under State Pension age whose partner died on or after 6 April 2017.
Bereavement Allowance: For those aged 45 or over but below State Pension age, whose partner died before 6 April 2017 (no new claims).
Widowed Parent’s Allowance: For parents with dependent children whose partner died before 6 April 2017 (no new claims).
The eligibility rules are set out in the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992 and updated by later regulations, including the Bereavement Support Payment Regulations 2017.
For more information about these and other bereavement benefits, including detailed descriptions and how they interact with other forms of support, visit our main benefits page.
If you are unsure which benefit applies to your situation, or how much you might receive, using a benefits calculator or seeking advice from an independent organisation can help you make an informed claim.
How to Apply for Bereavement Benefits
Applying for bereavement benefits can feel overwhelming during a difficult time, but the process is designed to be as straightforward as possible. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to help you through your application, what documents you’ll need, and what to expect once you’ve submitted your claim.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for bereavement benefits. Typically, you must have been married to, or in a civil partnership with, the person who has died. The deceased must also have paid National Insurance contributions. If the death occurred before 6 April 2017, you may need to look into Widowed Parent’s Allowance instead.Gather Required Documents and Information
To complete your application, you will usually need:Your National Insurance number
Your partner’s National Insurance number
Details of your marriage or civil partnership (such as certificates)
The date of your partner’s death and their date of birth
Your bank or building society account details
Details of any children you receive Child Benefit for (if applying for Widowed Parent’s Allowance)
Choose How to Apply
You can apply for bereavement benefits in several ways:
Online: The most convenient method for many people. Follow the instructions provided on the government’s official website.
By Phone: Call the Bereavement Service helpline. They can help you complete your application over the phone and answer questions about your claim.
By Post: Download and fill out the relevant claim form, then send it to the address provided on the form.
For a detailed explanation of each step and links to the necessary forms, visit the application process page on Citizens Advice.
Submit Your Application
Make sure all information is accurate and all required documents are included. Mistakes or missing information can delay your claim.
What Happens After You Apply
Once you’ve submitted your application, you should receive a decision within a few weeks. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) may contact you if they need more information or documents. If your claim is approved, you’ll receive a letter confirming your entitlement and payment details. Payments are usually made directly into your bank account.
If your claim is delayed, don’t hesitate to contact the Bereavement Service helpline for updates.
If Your Claim Is Denied
If you’re refused bereavement benefits and believe the decision is wrong, you have the right to challenge it. This process is called a ‘mandatory reconsideration’. You’ll need to ask the DWP to look at your claim again, explaining why you think the decision was incorrect. If you’re still unhappy after the reconsideration, you can appeal to an independent tribunal.
For more guidance on challenging a decision or getting help with your application, the application process page on Citizens Advice offers step-by-step advice.
Applying for bereavement benefits can provide valuable financial support during a difficult period. Make sure to keep copies of any documents you send and note down important dates and reference numbers. If you need additional help, don’t hesitate to reach out to support services or seek advice from trusted organisations.
Other Financial Support and Related Benefits
After losing a loved one, you may be entitled to bereavement benefits, but it’s important to know that other financial support and related benefits could also be available to help you through this difficult time. Depending on your circumstances – such as your age, health, caring responsibilities, or whether you have children – you may qualify for additional help from the government.
Universal Credit
If your household income has dropped or you’re struggling to cover living costs after a bereavement, Universal Credit may provide extra financial support. This benefit is designed for people of working age who are on a low income or out of work, and it can help with everyday expenses such as rent and bills.
Pension Credit
If you are over State Pension age and your income is below a certain threshold, Pension Credit could boost your weekly income. This is especially relevant for older people who have lost a partner and may now have less to live on.
Help with Housing
A bereavement can affect your ability to pay for your home. You might be able to get help with housing costs through Housing Benefit, support with mortgage interest, or council tax reductions, depending on your situation.
Support if You Have Children
If you have dependent children, you may be able to claim help if you have children, such as Child Benefit or additional elements within Universal Credit. There are also specific benefits and allowances for families affected by bereavement, which can help with childcare and living costs.
Disability and Health-Related Benefits
If you or someone in your household has a disability or health condition, disability benefits such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) may be available. These can provide extra financial help to cover the costs of managing a health condition.
Attendance Allowance
For those over State Pension age who need help with personal care due to illness or disability, Attendance Allowance might be an option. This benefit isn’t means-tested and can be claimed in addition to other support.
Carer’s Allowance
If you are now caring for someone else following a bereavement – such as an elderly parent or disabled relative – you may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance. This benefit recognises the vital role of unpaid carers and can provide additional income.
Employment Benefits
If you are in work, you may be entitled to employment benefits, such as Statutory Bereavement Leave and Pay, or flexible working arrangements to help you manage your responsibilities after a loss.
Further Advice and Support
It’s a good idea to check what benefits you can get, as your eligibility may change after a bereavement. Many people find they qualify for more support than they expect, especially if their circumstances have changed significantly.
For a detailed overview of bereavement benefits and additional support, you can also visit Age UK’s guide, which covers how to claim and what to consider after losing a family member.
Remember, each benefit has its own rules and eligibility criteria, so it’s important to get personalised advice to make sure you receive all the help you’re entitled to. If you’re unsure where to start, using an online benefits checker or seeking advice from a trusted organisation can help you navigate the process.
Taking Time Off Work After a Bereavement
When you lose a close family member, taking time off work can be essential for grieving and managing practical arrangements. In the UK, your rights to bereavement leave depend on your employment status and your employer’s policy, but there are some key legal protections and entitlements to be aware of.
Your Right to Take Time Off
Employees have a legal right to take a reasonable amount of unpaid time off to deal with an emergency involving a dependant, which includes the death of a close family member. This is sometimes referred to as “time off for dependants.” While the law doesn’t specify exactly how much time is allowed, it is generally intended to let you deal with immediate needs, such as arranging a funeral.
Some employers go beyond the legal minimum and offer compassionate leave, sometimes paid, as part of their company policy. Compassionate leave may cover additional days to grieve or handle practical matters. The amount and whether it is paid or unpaid will depend on your contract or staff handbook. Employers are encouraged to approach bereavement with sensitivity, and you can find more on best practices for both employees and employers in this compassionate leave guide.
If you are responsible for caring for someone who has died, or for other dependants affected by the bereavement, you may also have rights to caregiver leave. This can provide further support and flexibility during difficult times.
Requesting Leave and Employer Responsibilities
To request bereavement leave, you should inform your employer as soon as possible about your situation and how much time you think you’ll need. You don’t have to put this in writing, but it’s a good idea to confirm the details by email or letter for clarity. Your employer should respond promptly and let you know what leave you are entitled to under your contract and the law.
Employers are required to allow reasonable unpaid time off for emergencies involving dependants, including bereavement. For other types of leave, such as compassionate or caregiver leave, entitlements may vary, so check your employment contract or staff handbook. If you feel your employer is not meeting their obligations, you can seek advice from your HR department or a legal adviser.
Support While You Are Off Work
While you are on bereavement leave, you may be entitled to statutory benefits or support from your employer. Some workplaces offer employee assistance programmes, counselling, or additional paid leave. It’s worth asking your HR department what support is available.
If you need more information about your rights to take time off for bereavement or caring responsibilities, our caregiver leave guide explains your options in detail.
Taking time to grieve and arrange affairs after a loss is important for your wellbeing. If you need further guidance on compassionate leave policies, you can find comprehensive advice for both employees and employers in the compassionate leave guide.
Where to Get Help and Advice
If you need help applying for bereavement benefits or understanding what support you might be entitled to, there are several sources of advice and guidance available.
Government resources
The UK government provides official guidance and application forms for bereavement benefits. You can find up-to-date information on eligibility, how to claim, and what documents you’ll need by visiting Benefits and financial support when someone dies – GOV.UK. This resource covers Bereavement Support Payment, Child Benefit if a child or parent dies, help with funeral costs (such as the Funeral Expenses Payment), and Guardian’s Allowance. It also explains how to contact the relevant government departments or helplines if you have questions about your claim.
Support from charities and organisations
Several charities and support organisations can help if you’re dealing with a bereavement and need advice about financial support:
They can provide guidance on filling out forms and gathering the right documents.
Many offer confidential helplines or online chat services where you can ask questions about your situation.
Some organisations specialise in supporting people who have lost a partner, parent, or child, and can advise on both emotional and practical matters.
Getting advice about eligibility and claims
Bereavement benefits can be complex, especially if your circumstances are unusual, such as if you were not married or in a civil partnership, or if you’re unsure about your National Insurance contributions. If you’re not sure whether you qualify, or if you need help with an application, it’s a good idea to seek advice before submitting your claim. The Government resources page provides detailed eligibility rules and contact details for official helplines, where trained advisors can answer your questions.
Next steps and further support
If you want to explore other types of financial help or benefits you may be entitled to, visit our benefits page for more information on a wide range of support options.
Remember, you don’t have to go through this process alone. There are people and organisations ready to help you understand your rights and get the support you need during a difficult time.
