DWP Offers £3,500 Lump Sum and Monthly Payments to Bereaved Households
The Department for Work and Pensions provides a little-known financial benefit to bereaved spouses and partners, offering an initial lump sum of up to £3,500 followed by 18 monthly payments — a package that eligible claimants should act on promptly to receive the full amount.
How Bereavement Support Payment Works
Bereavement Support Payment (BSP) is paid at two rates, depending on whether the claimant is responsible for a child under the age of 20. Those with qualifying children receive £3,500 upfront, followed by £350 per month for 18 months. Those without receive a reduced lump sum of £2,500 and monthly payments of £100.
The benefit is not means-tested, meaning existing savings or other income have no bearing on eligibility. It is available to anyone whose partner died on or after 6 April 2017 — the date on which BSP replaced the previous Widowed Parent’s Allowance.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for BSP, claimants must meet the following conditions, as set out by Age UK:
Notably, the benefit extends beyond married couples. Unmarried, cohabiting partners are also eligible, provided they have a dependent child or children. This distinguishes BSP from some other state provisions, which have historically excluded those not in formal legal unions.
Where a partner’s death resulted from a workplace accident or occupational illness, the National Insurance contribution requirement may be waived.
Claim Deadlines
Claimants must apply within 21 months of their partner’s death in order to receive any payment at all. However, to secure the full entitlement, the DWP requires a claim to be made within three months of the death — after which point some monthly payments will already have lapsed.
Exceptions exist for cases where the cause of death was only recently established, such as following a coroner’s inquest.
How to Apply
Applications can be made through the Bereavement Service Helpline by calling 0800 151 2012. Given the time-sensitive nature of the claim window, those who believe they may be eligible are advised to contact the helpline without delay.