Is there a bereavement payment?
Last reviewed June 2026
Yes. Bereavement Support Payment (BSP) is a UK government benefit paid to people under State Pension age whose spouse, civil partner, or (since February 2023) cohabiting partner with children died on or after 6 April 2017. There's a one-off lump sum of £3,500 (£2,500 standard rate) followed by 18 monthly instalments of £350 (£100 standard). You must claim within 3 months of the death to receive the full amount, claims made later are reduced. It's not means-tested and isn't taxed.
Which best describes you?
How much you'll receive
Two rates apply:
- Higher rate (if you receive Child Benefit or are pregnant): £3,500 lump sum + £350 × 18 monthly payments = £9,800 total
- Standard rate (no Child Benefit): £2,500 lump sum + £100 × 18 monthly = £4,300 total
- Both rates ignore other income, BSP isn't means-tested.
How to claim
Apply online at GOV.UK or by phone on 0800 151 2012. You'll need the death certificate, your National Insurance number, and bank details. Most claims are decided within 5 weeks.
If you don't qualify
Other support to check: Funeral Expenses Payment (up to £1,000 plus burial/cremation costs for those on qualifying benefits), Widowed Parent's Allowance (only for deaths before 6 April 2017), and the Bereavement Service Helpline for tailored guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Is bereavement support payment taxable?
No. BSP isn't taxed and doesn't reduce other benefits during the 12-month payment window, though it can affect means-tested benefits if you save the lump sum.
Can I get bereavement payment if my partner wasn't working?
Your late partner must have paid Class 1 or 2 National Insurance for at least 25 weeks during their working life, or died from an accident at work or industrial disease.
How long does the payment last?
18 months of monthly payments after the initial lump sum. The total period is 19 monthly contributions.
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