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 cohabiting partner with children died on or after 6 April 2017. Cohabiting partners with children are included for deaths from 30 August 2018 onwards. There's a one-off lump sum of £3,500 (£2,500 lower rate) followed by 18 monthly instalments of £350 (£100 lower rate). 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 (burial or cremation costs plus up to £1,000 of other costs, or £120 with a pre-paid plan, for those on qualifying benefits), the Funeral Support Payment in Scotland, and the Bereavement Service Helpline for tailored guidance. Widowed Parent's Allowance closed to new claims on 6 April 2017 and only applies if your partner died before that date.
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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