Bereavement Allowance is a benefit for individuals who have lost a spouse. It is eligible for claimant status for a period of 21 months following the decedent’s demise. It is a substitute for the Widow’s Pension.
What may I assert?
Regardless of whether you are claiming (or eligible for) the Child Benefit, you may receive a flat sum followed by up to eighteen monthly disbursements at one of the two rates listed below. Individuals who meet the eligibility criteria are awarded the higher amount, while those who do not are awarded the lower amount.
You must file your claim for the full 19-month allowance within three months of the demise of your spouse (I apologise for the morbidity…). You will be able to claim less the later you file your claim. You may qualify for a reduced quantity if your companion passed away prior to August 30, 2018 or subsequent to February 9, 2023.
The following additional conditions may impact your eligibility for the Bereavement Allowance:
- The user’s age.
- Motive for demise.
- Your place of residence.
- Regardless of whether one is raising offspring.
- Whether your spouse made adequate national insurance contributions throughout their working lives.
- It should be noted that individuals incarcerated are ineligible to receive the allowance. Not even if your spouse passed away prior to your arrival.
How should the Bereavement Allowance be claimed?
Claim the Bereavement Allowance if you are a resident of the United Kingdom (excluding Northern Ireland) by downloading a Bereavement Benefits bundle (form BB1) and delivering it to your local Jobcentre.
Those residing in Northern Ireland may review their available Bereavement Support options on this page. Additionally, you should contact the International Pension Centre from abroad in order to apply.
Is there anything else to bear in mind?
It is important to note that the allowance qualifies as a taxable benefit. Thus, submitting a Self-Assessment will result in its inclusion in your total income, for which you will be required to pay income tax.
Additionally, after one year of claiming the benefit, any remaining funds may have an impact on your eligibility to claim additional benefits.
