bereavement benefit - They asking WHY ARE WE applying late ? What do I say ?

Jane_gs

On the bereavement Benefit forms, (B allowance, b payment), they are asking has the partner died more than 3 months ago (which they have) - they can only backdate 3 months

They are asking on a question, why are you applying later than 3 months? (ie, why is your claim later than 3 months)

what do I write?


the truth is, we were unaware about it, until now.

or we lacked knowledge?

would that be ok to write ?

recoverydust

If that is the truth, then that's what to write. No doubt there will be others in the same position, so they will understand.
Sorry for your loss

CouponWoman

Write something like

You were too upset and distraught at your loss to seek benefit advice. If the person had been married a long time, ie years, put something like "I was too upset and distraught at losing my Oh after 30 years together".

Basically, blame it on being too upset, as in DWP eyes, ignorance is no excuse for a late claim.

Good luck and sorry for you loss.

CWxx

Dunroamin

Sorry for your loss but I don't think you'll get very far. Most people who are eligible for this will be grief stricken and ignorance is never considered an acceptable reason for a late claim.

[Deleted User]

something in the back of my mind tells me you can apply within 12 months,but i`m not 100% sure

pmlindyloo

These are two different things:

Bereavement Payment which you can claim within 12 months of death and Bereavement Allowance which you must claim within 3 months of death.

Bereavement Allowance can only be backdated for 3 months from the date you apply.

See here:

http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/england/benefits_e/benefits_bereavement_ew/benefits_and_bereavement.htm