We surface eligibility indications only. Deadlines matter — Bereavement Support Payment loses the lump sum after 12 months and is fully closed after 21 months.
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Up to £3,500 lump sum + 18 monthly payments. Claim within 21 months of death.
DWP contribution toward funeral costs if you're on a qualifying benefit.
Full exemption while the deceased's sole property is empty.
25% council tax reduction if you're now the only adult in the household.
3-month UC continuation payment if you had a joint claim.
8 weeks' continued Carer's Allowance after the death of the person you cared for.
Payments if you're raising a child whose parents have both died.
New from April 2026 — for bereaved co-parents.
Once you know which benefits you may be eligible for, the next question is: who do you notify first, and in what order? The Bereavement First-Week Brief walks every institution — named bereavement teams, specific forms, the direct-debit discipline that prevents frozen accounts. Free.
Get the Bereavement First-Week Brief — freeLibrary
These free institutional briefs cover bereavement benefits, DWP processes, and what a surviving spouse needs to act on first.
The DWP does not chase you. The claim window closes. Eighteen months is the limit.
Read the guideGrief can wait. Some administration cannot.
Read the guideThe Executor's First Hour extends this guide with the estate's specific accounts, authorities, and documents — so the transition has a clear map.
Read the guideAll guides are available free from the Valoren library — no account required.