Bereavement Payment (formerly Widow's Payment)

What is it?

A new system of bereavement benefits for men and women was introduced in April 2001. The new system will not affect women who were already getting benefits under the previous scheme as long as they continue to qualify under the rules.

A Bereavement Payment is:

• based on your late husband, wife's or civil partners NI contributions
• a one off payment.

Can I get it?

Are you:

• under age 60 for women, 65 for men (state pension age)? Or
• the widow of a man or widower of a woman or a surviving civil partner who was not entitled to a category A Retirement Pension when they died?
• the widow or widower of a spouse or surviving civil partner of someone who has paid NI contributions?

If YES to two, claim a Bereavement Payment.

What else should I know?

• if you were over state pension age when you were widowed or became a surviving civil partner you may get extra Retirement Pension based on your husband, wife's or surviving civil partner's NI contributions
• if your husband, wife or civil partner died as a result of their job, you may be able to get bereavement benefits even if they did not pay enough NI contributions
• you cannot get bereavement benefits if you were divorced from your husband, wife or civil partnership has been dissolved
• you cannot get bereavement benefits if you remarry or reform a civil partnership or if you live with a partner as if you are married to them or as if you had formed a civil partnership (in Scotland, special habit and repute provisions apply)
• bereavement benefits are not affected if you work

How much will I get?

A lump sum of £2,000.00.

How do I claim?

Claim straight away. If you delay you may lose benefit.

Contact your social security office for a claim form. Find your local office on this site or look in the phone book under Benefits Agency, Jobcentre Plus or social security.

It is important that we can be sure of your identity when you make a claim. We may need to ask you about your background and look at any official documents you have to support the information you give.

You can download a Bereavement Benefit claim form

More information

For more information or leaflets, get in touch with your local council, Jobcentre Plus office or your social security office.

Other help