Introduction
Are you struggling to navigate the complexities of claiming bereavement benefits after losing a loved one? This guide is here to help you understand your rights and the financial support available during this challenging time. With clear information on eligibility, application processes, and the types of benefits you may qualify for, you can find the assistance you need. If you require further guidance, Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts are ready to support you in resolving your legal concerns. At Contend, we provide the easiest legal help in the UK, ensuring you’re not alone in this difficult journey.
Losing a loved one is incredibly difficult, and during this challenging time, it’s important to know that you may be eligible for financial support. Bereavement benefits can help ease some of the financial burden that comes with the loss of a partner or close family member. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to claim these benefits.
Funeral Expenses Payment
If you’re receiving certain benefits, you might be able to get help with the costs of a funeral for a partner, close relative, close friend, or child you were responsible for. You can find out if you qualify for a Funeral Expenses Payment by visiting GOV.UK.
Bereavement Support Payment
If your partner has passed away, you may qualify for Bereavement Support Payment. However, eligibility depends on your situation:
- You must have been living with your partner and under the State Pension age when they died.
- Your partner must have paid National Insurance contributions for at least 25 weeks in one tax year, or they must have died due to a work-related accident or illness.
If you were not married or in a civil partnership, you can still claim if you take care of a child who lived with you and your partner and you receive Child Benefit for that child.
Important Eligibility Criteria
- Date of Death: Your partner must have died on or after April 6, 2017.
- Income and Savings: Your income or savings do not affect your eligibility.
If your partner had a severe disability and couldn’t pay National Insurance contributions, you may still be eligible. In this case, it’s advisable to try Contend’s legal expert chat for guidance.
If Your Partner Died Before April 6, 2017
If this applies to you, you might be eligible for Widowed Parent’s Allowance, provided you are caring for a child you had with your partner. You can check your eligibility for this allowance on GOV.UK.
How Much Can You Receive?
The amount you receive depends on whether you have children:
- Without Children: A lump sum of £2,500 and monthly payments of £100 for up to 18 months.
- With Children: A lump sum of £3,500 and monthly payments of £350 for up to 18 months.
These payments are tax-free and won’t affect other benefits you receive. However, if you still have some of the lump sum after a year, it may influence your eligibility for other benefits.
How to Apply
To apply for Bereavement Support Payment, you can either fill out a form or call the Bereavement Service helpline. You can download the claim form from GOV.UK or request one from your local Jobcentre Plus.
Make sure to apply within three months of your partner’s death to receive the full amount. If you apply late, you could lose one monthly payment for each month you delay. To receive the lump sum, your application must reach the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) within 12 months.
Contact Information
If you prefer to apply over the phone, you can call the Bereavement Service helpline at:
- Telephone: 0800 151 2012
- Welsh language: 0800 731 0453
- Textphone: 0800 731 0464
For those who need assistance in British Sign Language (BSL), you can use video relay services. More information on how to use these services can be found here.
Reporting Changes
If your personal circumstances change—like getting married, moving, or changes in your Child Benefit—you must inform the DWP as soon as possible. This is crucial as it can impact your benefit payments. It’s best to call the Bereavement Service helpline for quick updates, and it’s wise to follow up with a written letter for your records.
Conclusion
Navigating bereavement benefits can be overwhelming, especially during such a difficult time. However, understanding what support is available and how to apply can help ease some of the financial stress. If you have further questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to try Contend’s legal expert chat for guidance. Contend is the Easiest Legal Help in the UK.
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