Losing a partner is devastating, and money is the last thing you want to think about — but there is financial support available. Bereavement Support Payment is a benefit from the UK government for people whose husband, wife or civil partner has died. This guide explains the amounts, who can claim, and why timing matters.
What is Bereavement Support Payment?
Bereavement Support Payment helps with the financial impact of losing a partner. It is made up of a first lump-sum payment followed by up to 18 monthly payments. It replaced the older Bereavement Allowance and Widowed Parent’s Allowance for deaths from April 2017.
How much is Bereavement Support Payment?
There are two rates (2026/27):
Higher rate: a £3,500 lump sum plus £350 a month for 18 months — up to £9,800 in total. This applies if you were pregnant or are responsible for children.
Standard rate: a £2,500 lump sum plus £100 a month for 18 months — up to £4,300 in total.
Who is eligible?
You may be able to claim if your husband, wife or civil partner died and, at the time of their death, you were under State Pension age and living in the UK (or a country that pays bereavement benefits). Your partner must have either paid enough National Insurance contributions or died because of a work-related accident or disease. Cohabiting partners with children may also qualify.
When should you claim?
Claim as soon as you are able to. To receive the full amount, claim within 3 months of the death. You can still claim up to 21 months afterwards, but you will receive fewer monthly payments the longer you wait.
Does it affect other benefits or tax?
Bereavement Support Payment is not taxable, and it does not affect your other benefits for 12 months after your first payment. After that, any money you have left could be taken into account for means-tested benefits.
How do you claim?
You can claim online through GOV.UK, by phone, or by post using a form from the Bereavement Service. You will need your own and your partner’s details, including their date of death and National Insurance number.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim if we were not married?
You may be able to if you were living together and were responsible for children. The rules were extended to cohabiting partners with children.
Is Bereavement Support Payment taxed?
No. The payments are tax-free and do not affect your other benefits for the first 12 months.
What if it has been more than 3 months?
You can still claim up to 21 months after the death, but you may receive fewer of the monthly payments, so it is best to claim promptly.
How Solace Care can help
It is easy to miss support you are entitled to when you are grieving. Solace Care helps you keep track of the benefits, claims and deadlines that apply to your situation. Want help with the practical side after a death? Create a Solace Care account or read more guides.
