How much do you get under the Bereavement Support Payment?

If you are entitled to the Bereavement Support Payment, you will receive a first payment and then up to 18 monthly payments. There are two rates. The higher rate is for survivors who get Child Benefit (or are entitled to it, even if they do not receive it) or who were pregnant when their spouse or civil partner died.

The claim must be made within three months of the death to get the full amount, although it can be claimed up to 21 months after the death. However, after the first three months, the monthly payments are reduced by one month for each month the claim is late. In addition, Bereavement Support Payment:

• is not taxable;

• does not count towards the benefit cap (see page 36);

• is subject to a disregard in the calculation of income-based benefits; and

• does not affect other benefits for a year after the first payment, although after a year, any payment left over could affect the amount of benefit the bereaved person is eligible for.