Widowed Parent’s Allowance

As a parent, you may be entitled to some financial assistance if your partner dies.

Who Is Considered Eligible For A Widowed Parent’s Allowance?

You may be considered eligible for a Widowed Parents Allowance if you are bringing up at least one child and

• expecting your late husband's baby
• expecting a baby as a result of artificial insemination or in-vitro fertilization
• are the widow(er) of a spouse who has paid National Insurance (NI) contributions
• be aware, not all children count for WPA.
• you may be able to get WPA if you are not getting Child Benefit.
• WPA is not affected if you work.

How Much Is The Widowed Parent’s Allowance?

The amount you will receive will be based on your late husband or wife's NI contributions. The allowance is £75.50 and you may receive an additional £9.65 and £11.35 for each child.

What Is Bereavement Payment?

A single payment of £2,000 made payable if you are under the state pension age (60 for women or 65 for men) and are the widow(er) of a spouse who was not entitled to a category A Retirement Pension when (s)he died. i.e where insufficient NI contributions have been paid. It is also paid to the widows(ers) of a spouse who has paid NI contributions.

How Do I Claim Widowed Parent’s Allowance?

Contact your Social Security Office for a claim form. They may need to check your identity when you make a claim. They may ask about your background or ask to see other official documents