Army Widows Association

Benefits Check

DWP or other benefits which may be available to you.

Recently we have discovered a few widows who are still uncertain about what benefits may be available to them. We have drawn up a list of some of the benefits which may be available to widows (depending on your age, children or whether you are working and your late husband’s National Insurance contributions).

It is important to remember that everyone’s circumstances are different. The representative from SPVA who now visits all new widows based in the UK or NI should make you aware of these benefits (and possibly others) and help you to apply for them. If you are based abroad then the Unit Regimental Admin Officer should be helping you with this. If you no longer have contact with your VO, SPVA rep or Unit Regimental Admin Officer you can find out more at your local DWP/Jobcentre Plus office which will be listed in your telephone directory (www.dwp.gov.uk, www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk)

Bereavement Payment

Widowed Parents Allowance

Bereavement Allowance

Child Benefit (and Home Responsibilities Protection rights)

Child Tax Credit

Working Tax Credit

Council Tax: From your District Council: 25% reduction in Council Tax if you are the sole adult living at the property

Also check that you have any appropriate additions such as rent or child allowances through the SPVA.