Benefits you may be entitled to after losing a partner

Please note that this information is correct at the time of publication (May 2025). Seek professional advice if in doubt or if you receive existing benefits or tax credits.

Losing a partner is one of life’s most painful experiences. Alongside emotional grief, many people are faced with a sudden change in their financial situation.

Understanding what support is available can provide some relief and help you stay on top of your household finances.

Council Tax reductions

Single Person Discount

If you were previously living with your partner and are now the sole adult in your household, you may be eligible for a Single Person Discount. This gives you 25% off your council tax bill.

Eligibility:

• You are the only adult (aged 18+) living in the property.
• You do not live with other adults who are not exempt (e.g., lodgers, grown-up children who are not in full-time education).

Apply for a Council Tax discount through your local council’s website.

Council Tax Reduction / Council Tax Support

If your household income has decreased significantly due to bereavement, you may be eligible for Council Tax Reduction (sometimes called Council Tax Support).

How it works:

Council Tax Reduction is means-tested and depends on income, savings, and household circumstances. If you’re on a low income or receiving benefits, you could receive a reduction of up to 100%.

Apply via your local council’s website or use the GOV.UK council finder if you’re unsure who your local authority is.

Available in England, Scotland, and Wales (there is a different scheme in Northern Ireland).

Bereavement Support Payment

While not a council tax reduction, Bereavement Support Payment can help financially after the death of a spouse or civil partner.

Eligibility:

• Must be under State Pension age.
• Your partner must have paid National Insurance contributions for at least 25 weeks or died from a work-related accident or illness.
• You must apply within 21 months of the death to receive full payment.

Apply online via GOV.UK.

Support by region

England and Wales

• Most local councils operate Council Tax Reduction schemes. You must apply directly through your local council
• Rules vary; some councils have more generous schemes for pensioners or disabled people.
• Check your local authority’s Council Tax Reduction scheme using: www.gov.uk/apply-council-tax-reduction

Scotland

• Council Tax Reduction is administered by local councils and is more generous in some areas.
• In Scotland, water and sewerage charges may also be reduced through the same scheme.
• Learn more and apply at: www.mygov.scot/council-tax-reduction

Northern Ireland

• Northern Ireland does not use the same council tax system. Instead, domestic rates are used.
• Support is available through Rate Relief and Rate Rebate schemes.
• Apply for support through: www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/rates

Additional support services

There are resources available to help with funeral costs, benefits, debt advice, and emotional support. If you’re struggling, reach out to the relevant organisations and seek the support you need to ease the burden during this difficult time.

• Citizens Advice – offers free, impartial advice on council tax, benefits, and debt. Can help you complete benefit forms and challenge council decisions.
• Turn2us – a benefits calculator to see what financial help you might be entitled to. Also offers information on grants and emergency financial support.
• StepChange & National Debtline – if your income has dropped and you’re struggling with bills or debt, these organisations can provide tailored advice and budgeting support.
• Cruse Bereavement Support – offers emotional and practical guidance following bereavement.

You can also read our detailed guide on financial help after bereavement, which covers funeral costs, managing household costs, and more, here.

Navigating financial difficulties after bereavement can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone.

There are systems in place designed to ease the financial burden during difficult times. It’s important to check what you may be entitled to and seek support where needed.