Benefits you may be entitled to after losing a partner
Last reviewed July 2026
This information is correct at the time of publication (July 2026). Seek advice if in doubt or if you currently receive existing benefits or tax credits.
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After losing a partner, you may be entitled to a Single Person Council Tax Discount (25% off), Council Tax Reduction based on income, and Bereavement Support Payment if your partner paid National Insurance contributions. Eligibility and how to apply varies by region. Support organisations such as Citizens Advice and Turn2us can help you navigate what you're owed.
Losing a partner is one of life's most painful experiences. Alongside grief, many people face a sudden and significant change in their financial situation, often without knowing what support is available to them.
This guide sets out the main benefits and reductions you may be entitled to, how to apply, and where to get further help.
Financial support you may be entitled to
Single Person Council Tax Discount
If you were previously living with your partner and are now the sole adult in your household, you may be eligible for a 25% reduction on 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, for example lodgers or grown-up children not in full-time education
Apply through your local council's website. Find your local council on GOV.UK.
Council Tax Reduction (Council Tax Support)
If your household income has dropped significantly following bereavement, you may qualify for Council Tax Reduction - sometimes called Council Tax Support. This is means-tested and based on your 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 or use the GOV.UK council finder. Available in England, Scotland and Wales. Northern Ireland uses a different system (see regional breakdown below).
Bereavement Support Payment
A government payment available to people who have lost a spouse or civil partner. It is paid as an initial lump sum followed by up to 18 monthly payments.
Eligibility
- You 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 the full payment
Support by region
Council Tax support schemes are administered locally and vary by region:
| Region | How it works | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|
| England and Wales | Local councils run their own Council Tax Reduction schemes. Rules vary — some are more generous for pensioners or disabled people. | gov.uk/apply-council-tax-reduction |
| Scotland | Council Tax Reduction is administered locally and tends to be more generous in some areas. Water and sewerage charges may also be reduced through the same scheme. | mygov.scot/council-tax-reduction |
| Northern Ireland | Northern Ireland does not use the council tax system. Domestic rates apply instead. Support is available through Rate Relief and Rate Rebate schemes. | nidirect.gov.uk/rates |
Additional support organisations
If you're unsure what you're entitled to, or need help applying, these organisations offer free, impartial guidance:
- Citizens Advice: free, impartial advice on council tax, benefits and debt. Can help you complete benefit forms and challenge council decisions.
- Turn2us: a benefits calculator to check what financial help you may be entitled to. Also provides information on grants and emergency financial support.
- StepChange and National Debtline: if your income has dropped and you're struggling with bills or debt, these organisations offer tailored advice and budgeting support.
- Cruse Bereavement Support: emotional and practical guidance following bereavement.