Dependent partner dies - ongoing assistance for client
Continuing dependent partner's portion of benefit
When the partner of a Supported Living Payment client dies, the partner's portion of the benefit is continued for 28 days at the same rate that was being paid on the date their partner died. Benefit payments that continue after the day a client has died are called 'terminal benefit'.
Dependent children
When there are dependent children included in the benefit, family tax credit and Best Start tax credit payments should be transferred to the primary client. Family tax credit and Best Start tax credit payments are not part of the terminal benefit.
A surviving partner with dependent children, can choose to remain on Supported Living Payment if they can meet the medical qualifications. If they do not meet the medical qualifications they may transfer to Jobseeker Support or Sole Parent Support, depending on the age of their youngest dependent child. Payment if from the date after the death of their partner.
It is important that the different entitlements of Supported Living Payment, Jobseeker Support and Sole Parent Support are explained to the client so they can make the best decision for their circumstances.
No dependent children
A surviving client, with no dependent children, can choose to remain on Supported Living Payment if they meet the medical qualifications. If they do not meet the medical qualifications they may need to transfer to Jobseeker Support.
Note if a client transfers to Jobseeker Support they can be exempt from meeting their work obligations to allow them time to adjust to their new circumstances.
Date of review
When the surviving client remains on Supported Living Payment, review the client's benefit from the date following the death of their partner. You need to:
- increase their benefit to the single or sole parent rate and
- adjust any Extra help to the single or sole parent rate
When the client applies for (and is granted) Sole Parent Support or Jobseeker Support, cancel their Supported Living Payment from the day after the death of their partner.
Note when the surviving client decides to receive a new main benefit or their existing benefit at the increased rate, the deceased partner’s portion of the benefit continues for 28 days at the rate being paid at the date of death (if the deceased person qualifies for terminal benefit).
Funeral costs
The person responsible for the cost of the funeral may be able to receive a Funeral Grant.
For more information see:
