Changes in Bereavement Support Payments
We understand that losing a loved one can be a difficult time that comes with many pressures, including financial ones. However, you may be able to receive financial support from the government if your partner has died.
Until recently, this support was only available to those who were married or in a civil partnership. However, the law changed in February 2023 allowing those who were not married or in a civil partnership, but were cohabiting parents or expecting a child, to now be eligible for Bereavement Support Payments.
Bereavement Support Payments are non-means-tested. Recipients can receive £9,800, comprising a one-off payment and 18 monthly instalments, if they are entitled to or receiving Child Benefit (or are pregnant). For claimants without children, the amount is £4,300, also paid as a lump sum and 18 monthly payments.
Full entitlement is usually only paid for claims made within 3 months of the partner's death, with partial payments for claims made within 12 months. If over 21 months have elapsed, typically no payments are made.
For people who were cohabiting and who can now benefit from this payment, claims for backdated payments are allowed until 9 November 2024 if your partner died after 6 April 2017.
The other criteria are that:
- The person claiming the benefit must be under the state pension age on the date their partner died.
- The partner must have paid National Insurance contributions for at least 25 weeks in one tax year since 6 April 1975, or have died due to an accident at work. (The Bereavement Service can confirm if a person has made sufficient NI Contributions so don't let uncertainty about this deter you from applying if you may be eligible.)
How to apply
You can apply either by:
- Telephone: 0800 151 2012
- By post by either downloading a Bereavement Support Payment claim formor contact the Bereavement Service helpline to have an application sent you through the post
- Apply online on GOV.UK
To make your application, you will need the following information:
- Your National Insurance number
- Bank account details
- The date your partner died
- Your partner's National Insurance number
If you have any questions or need assistance with Bereavement Support Payments, please don't hesitate to contact our Client Relations team at 01603693510 or via email at enquiries@clapham-collinge.co.uk. Our dedicated team is committed to providing support and guidance throughout the process.
