Finances after someone dies

Paying for the funeral

Funeral costs are normally recoverable from the deceased’s estate, but the person organising the funeral will be responsible for paying the bill. It is advisable to check where the money will come from before making arrangements. Check if a pre-purchased funeral plan has been arranged.

Contact the deceased’s bank or building society where their funds are held to inform them of the death. Many banks will release money to pay for funeral costs before probate is granted, but not all. The bank or building society will need a copy of the death certificate. The Funeral Director can send their invoice directly to the bank or you can send the invoice yourself to the bank for payment.

Where the payment for the funeral is an issue, you may be entitled to help with the costs. Contact the DWP on 0800 731 7898 to discuss your eligibility. There is a time limit for claiming bereavement benefits and a funeral grant. So it’s important to contact the DWP at your earliest convenience or within one month of the bereavement. Funeral grants have a maximum threshold and not everyone is given the full amount. You ought to check this when organising the funeral to prevent running up large costs. Where no one is able to pay for the funeral, the local authority may help – but you must contact them before the funeral has been arranged. Choice is restricted in these cases. Your funeral director should be able to advise you.

Changes in circumstances and benefits

If you were receiving carers benefit prior to the bereavement, this will continue for six weeks after the death of the person you were caring for.

Check the council tax benefit and housing benefit are in your name. If not these may need to be reapplied for.

If you or your spouse/partner were claiming a benefit before the bereavement, or if you are now on a low income, you may need this reviewed.

If you have children and are working, available benefits will depend on your income and the age of your children. If you’re unable to work or are unemployed, you may be eligible for increased benefits. You may also be eligible for a bereavement payment or support.

If you are under pension age

If you’re a parent and any of the following benefits are in the deceased’s name, these will have to be changed or reapplied for.

• Child benefit (HMS 0300 200 3100)

• Child tax credit or working tax credit (HMRC 0345 300 3900).

If you are over pension age

If your spouse or partner dies, you may need a benefits review, particularly if you’re now living alone.

A review is recommended as not all benefits are means tested.

• Contact the DWP bereavement line on 0800 731 0469 for advice.

• www.gov.uk has excellent advice on all benefits. Or contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau for support in finding out what is available and how to apply.