From 15 August 2023, partners dealing with bereavement can now claim Bereavement
Support Payment (BSP) via an online service, which is available on the nidirect website
at: www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/bereavement-support-payment.
As an online service, it can be accessed anytime from a desktop computer, laptop,
tablet, or smartphone. This online service has been specifically designed to be as
sympathetic as possible and easy to use. It takes around 15 minutes to apply using the
service, as people are only asked to complete relevant questions specific to their
circumstances.
For people choosing not to use the online service, Bereavement Support Payment can
still be claimed by contacting the Department’s Bereavement Service, using free-phone
telephone number 0800 085 2463 and choosing option 1. In addition, customers can
also continue to complete an application form (BSP1) which is available to download
from www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/bereavement-support-payment.
What is a Bereavement Support Payment?
Bereavement Support Payment gives financial support to people for a period after the
death of a partner. The bereaved does not need to be in receipt of benefit or on a low
income to apply. Payments are tax-free, however in some circumstances they may be
treated as savings for other benefit(s).
Payments may consist of an initial payment followed by a series of smaller monthly
payments for up to a maximum period of 18 months. To qualify for Bereavement Support
Payment there are certain eligibility criteria that the bereaved needs to satisfy, full details
of Bereavement Support Payment and all eligibility criteria can be found at Bereavement
Support Payment on nidirect.
The Department hopes the above information is useful. For further information, contact
the Corporate Communications team.