Widow's entitlement

retirementplanningguide

If your husband had social security then you could get social security spouse benefits.

myrnahaz

Thanks for your replies. I'll print them all for her so she can see what's available (as you say, no-one tells you about your entitlements until you ask specifically about something).
She's just been placed on to sickness benefit (called another name these days!) due to her existing arthritis and (recently diagnosed) depression, so she's not being harassed any longer (about not trying hard enough to get a job), but she's still looking as she's so chronically poor at the moment.
She's returned the completed forms to the Pension people, so she should hear if there's anything available to her before long - I hope she's successful as it will boost her spirits as well as her income.

jamesd

myrnahaz, you can safely ignore the social security comment unless you are living in the United States.

sweetcarer

tawl wrote: »

(b) Bereavement Allowance (BA)


After you're widowed you may be able to claim Bereavement Allowance, the taxable weekly benefit paid to you for up to 52 weeks from the date of death of your husband, wife or civil partner.

similar amount if eligible and over 55

Just a wee note about younger than 55 - you are not considered a widow then unless you have kids. I was made a widow at 33 and didn't get anything from the government - when I enquired about "widows pension" I was told that I was now a "young single female". I was married for nearly 11 years - felt it was so unfair. My late husband had paid his stamp and that is what I got in return.

I hope the lady gets what she is due - it is so sad when you lose someone and you get treated badly.

Kind wishes to all

sweetcarer