A MARTIN Lewis fan has revealed how they got thousands in free cash for their family after following his tips.
MoneySavingExpert fan Jamie scooped the money after reading about bereavement support payments in his weekly newsletter.
It comes after the government made a huge change to bereavement support payments earlier this year.
Now, cohabiting parents with dependent children who need support following the death of their partner can apply for backdated payments.
Jamie's dad passed away back in 2015 but her mum could not claim any support at the time due to not being married to him.
They said: "My dad passed away in 2015, but my parents weren't married and mum wasn't eligible for bereavement support, despite being together for over 20 years with three children.
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"After seeing your bereavement support payments article, she claimed and has received a backdated £37,000."
Jamie's mum will also get £139 a week for as long as she receives Child Benefit for her youngest child.
"This was incredible. Thank you for all you do," Jamie added.
Thousands of households are thought to be missing out on cash because of the old rules surrounding the payment support.
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But, now they can all claim backdated payments and get a hefty income boost.
Below we explain who is eligible and how you can get the money.
Who is eligible for bereavement support payments?
More than 21,000 households affected by bereavement but previously denied support can also apply for backdated payments.
To qualify for a payment, claimants must have met the eligibility criteria for either bereavement support payment or widowed parent's allowance on or after August 30, 2018.
This means those who lost their partner before April 6, 2017 might be able to receive the legacy benefit widowed parent's allowance, should they be found to have been eligible for this on August 30, 2018.
Similarly, a surviving parent who lost their partner on or after April 6, 2017, may be eligible for its replacement, bereavement support payment – should they have been qualified for this on August 30, 2018.
Households have until February 8, 2024, to submit any backdated claims.
The exact amount of bereavement benefit you'll be entitled to will depend on when they lost their partner and any other financial circumstances.
For example, the bereavement support payment is usually worth up to £3,500, plus £350 a month for 18 months.
We've explained how you can claim any backdated payments below.
How can I claim and apply for bereavement support payments?
You can apply for bereavement support payment online, by telephone or by post.
To apply, you'll need:
- Your National Insurance number
- Your bank or building society account details
- The date your partner died
- Your partner's National Insurance number
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You can apply for the benefit over the phone by calling the bereavement service helpline on 0800 151 2012.
To apply by post download the bereavement support payment BSP1 form from the government website, fill it in and return it to the address on the form.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected].
You can also join our new Sun Money Facebook group to share stories and tips and engage with the consumer team and other group members.
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