The Bereavement Support Payment replaced several old benefits (like Widow's Pension). In 2026, it is a single, tax-free payment designed to help with the immediate financial impact of a partner's death.
1. The Two Payment Rates (2026)
The amount you receive depends on whether you have children or were pregnant at the time of your partner's death.
| Rate Type | Lump Sum | Monthly Payment (for 18 months) |
|---|---|---|
| Higher Rate (With Children) | £3,500 | £350 |
| Standard Rate (No Children) | £2,500 | £100 |
🚀 The Hustler's Strategy: The '3-Month Window'
Timing is everything. If you delay your claim, you lose the lump sum.
Keyword Strategy: To get the full lump sum AND all 18 monthly payments, you must claim within **3 months** of your partner's death. If you claim after 3 months but within 21 months, you will get some monthly payments but you may LOSE the lump sum component. Strategic Move: Even if you are unsure of your eligibility, submit the claim immediately. The lump sum is **tax-free** and, crucially, it does not count toward the capital limit for Universal Credit for the first 12 months.
2. Cohabiting Partners Rule
Following a landmark legal victory, the DWP now pays Bereavement Support Payment to cohabiting partners (people who lived together but were not married or in a civil partnership), provided they had children together or were eligible for Child Benefit.
3. The National Insurance Qualifier
To qualify, your deceased partner must have paid at least 25 weeks of Class 1 or Class 2 National Insurance in any one tax year since 1975. If they died from an industrial accident or disease, this NI requirement is waived.
Bereavement FAQs
Is the money taxed?
No. Bereavement Support Payment is one of the few benefits that is completely tax-free and does not affect your other benefits in the first year.
What if I remarried or find a new partner?
The payments will continue for the full 18 months, even if you start living with a new partner or get remarried during that time.
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Benefit Experts Editorial Team
Benefit Experts Team – Independent UK benefits guidance. We provide independent, authoritative guidance to help UK citizens navigate the complex benefits system with confidence.