Thousands of cohabiting parents may be missing out on their share of an estimated £175 million in bereavement benefits, even as the DWP deadline for backdated claims approaches. In tandem, the benefits cap could limit the impact of anticipated benefits increases for thousands of UK households.
Thousands of unmarried parents in the UK may not be claiming an estimated £175 million in bereavement support due to them, according to information obtained by BBC Radio 4’s Money Box. Although UK law changed last year to grant cohabiting couples the same bereavement benefits as married or civil partners, around 12,000 individuals have yet to apply for these backdated claims. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has said that claims must be made by 8th February 2024. Only approximately 5,000 out of the estimated 17,000 eligible widowed parents have claimed so far. Janet Cowden, who lost her partner in 2016, is an example of someone who initially did not qualify for support but did so following the legal change.
Separately, the DWP has indicated that despite the Autumn Statement’s promise of a benefits increase, the benefit cap could negate this for some recipients. More than 85,000 households could be affected, with the cap limits set at £486.98 per week for couples and £326.26 for single adults in Greater London.
Amidst these issues, the UK is experiencing a 4.0 per cent inflation rate, adding financial pressure on many households. The Resolution Foundation noted that over half of low-income families during the previous year struggled to afford essential items. Several state support schemes are scheduled for distribution, including the final cost of living payment of £299, to be disbursed between 6th and 22nd February 2024, and upcoming benefits increase in April 2024, with benefits rising by 6.7 per cent and state pensions by 8.5 per cent.
The Energy Price Cap, currently standing at £1,928, could change throughout the year, affecting household energy bills. Additionally, the Child Poverty Action Group has expressed concern that the benefits cap could effectively result in cuts for many, given the high cost of living.
Individuals are encouraged to check their eligibility and apply for the range of available financial support to help them through these challenging times. For detailed information, the UK government’s website provides up-to-date guidance on various benefits and support measures.
