Although not a benefit that is designed to support older people, the Bereavement Support Payment is one that older people often enquire about. If you are an older person that has suffered a recent bereavement, then you are advised to seek professional financial and legal advice to ensure you are in receipt of everything you are entitled to.
Bereavement Support Payment is a non-means-tested welfare payment that is made to an individual if their spouse or civil partner passes away. Because it is non-means-tested there are no checks against your income level or savings. You may also be eligible if you are still working.
There are, however, a number of eligibility criteria which are listed below:
You are eligible to claim Bereavement Support Payment if the following applies to you:
- The bereavement happened on or after 6 April 2017
- The claimant is under State Pension age
- The claimant was living in the UK at the time of death
- It has been less than three months since the death.
Your partner will also have needed to be eligible in accordance with the following:
- They will have needed to have pay National Insurance contributionsfor at least 25 weeks in one tax year.
- Or have passed away as a result of an accident at work or a disease caused by work.
How much is the Bereavement Support Payment?
The Bereavement Support Payment consists of two key elements:
- An initial lump sum payment of £2,500
- This payment increases to £3,500 if the claimant is eligible for Child Benefits
- Regular monthly instalments of £100 for 18 months
- These payments increase to £350 if the claimant is eligible for Child Benefits
Note: These payments are not subject to taxation and are not considered when any benefits cap is made and will not be considered when assessing any entitlement to other means-tested benefits.
What is the process for claiming the Bereavement Support Payment?
You must be eligible for all 3 of the criteria as listed above, if you submit a late claim (more than 3 months after bereavement), you will receive fewer monthly payments.
You need to complete a specific form called the BSP1 which is available by downloading from the Government Website. Just Google “BFP1 Form” and it will take you to the appropriate website. It is also available in hard copy from your local Job Centre.
Complete the form in full and then send the form to the following address:
Bereavement Support Payment
Mail Handling Site A
Wolverhampton
WV98 2BS
Alternatively, you can drop it off at your local Job Centre.
The information in this article was correct at the time of writing, but it is subject to short notice change.
For help on how to claim, phone the Bereavement Service helpline on 0800 731 0469
How will the changes affect my existing Widowed Parent’s Allowance?
If you are currently receiving Widowed Parent’s Allowance you will continue to do so at the rate of £121.95 as long as you’re still receiving Child Benefit.
For more information or if you wish to discuss care for your loved one please email care@greensleeves.org.uk