When your partner dies, money is the last thing you want to think about. But bills keep coming, and the government can help. Here’s what you need to know about getting financial support.
What Financial Support Is Available?
Centrelink provides a lump sum payment to assist with the financial strain after the loss of a partner. To qualify, specific criteria must be met, including:
- Both you and your partner received Centrelink payments before their death.
- One of you received Centrelink payments while the other was a pensioner.
- You lived together at the time of your partner’s passing.
You need to notify Centrelink of your partner’s death within 14 weeks to be eligible for the payment. Acting promptly ensures you receive the full amount of financial support available.
How the Lump Sum Is Calculated
Centrelink calculates the lump sum payment based on the combined benefits you and your partner received before their passing. If you notify Centrelink within two weeks of their death, the calculation works like this:
- Add the total Centrelink payments you and your partner received.
- Multiply this combined amount by 14 weeks.
- Divide the result by two to determine the payment amount.
For instance, if your combined fortnightly payments were $1,500, your lump sum would be approximately $10,500.
If you notify Centrelink after the two-week window, the calculation changes. In such cases, Centrelink will:
- Assess the portion of the payments your partner received.
- Count the days between your partner’s death and when you contacted them.
- Factor in any additional payments you were eligible for during this time.
Delays may reduce the payment amount, so it’s crucial to act quickly.
Other Financial Support You May Be Eligible For
In addition to the lump sum payment, Centrelink offers other financial assistance to help with ongoing expenses. These include:
- Continuation of Payments: You may receive your partner’s Centrelink payments for up to 14 weeks after their passing.
- Rent Assistance: If you’re renting, you could qualify for extra money to help with housing costs.
- Medical and Prescription Assistance: Centrelink provides additional payments to help with medical bills and prescription costs.
- Energy and Utility Payments: You may qualify for support to manage rising energy and utility expenses.
- Specific Allowances: Depending on your circumstances, other allowances may also be available to cover essential costs.
Each of these forms of assistance can help ease the financial burden during this difficult time.
Documents Needed to Apply
To apply for financial support, you’ll need to gather specific documents to provide proof of eligibility. These include:
- Death Certificate: Either a certified copy of the death certificate or documentation from the funeral director is required.
- Centrelink Customer Numbers: Both yours and your partner’s Centrelink numbers.
- Bank Account Details: For payment processing.
- Rental Agreement or Proof of Housing Costs: If you are currently renting.
- Marriage Certificate: If applicable, a copy of your marriage certificate may also be required.
Having these documents ready can help streamline the application process.
Special Circumstances
Certain situations may affect your eligibility or the calculation of payments. These include:
- Hospitalization or Care: If either you or your partner was in a hospital or care facility before their passing, the calculations may differ.
- Receiving Rent Assistance: If you were already receiving rent help, this might influence the additional financial support you qualify for.
- Close Deaths: If your partner passed away shortly after you, the payment structures may be adjusted.
- Separation Due to Illness: If you and your partner were separated due to medical reasons, special rules may apply to your claim.
Centrelink assesses these cases individually to determine the appropriate level of support.
Need Help Right Now?
Funera can sort this out for you. They’ll:
- Tell you exactly what papers you need
- Get your death certificates
- Talk to Centrelink for you
- Make sure you get all your money
Don’t Wait – Call Funera For Your Funeral Needs
“We deal with Centrelink every day. We know how to get your payment sorted fast, and we’ll handle all the paperwork. You’ve got enough on your mind right now.”
Ring (02) 9954 6655 and we can discuss all the options you can get for your funeral needs.
The team’s ready to help 24/7.
Quick Tip: The sooner you call, the sooner you’ll get your money.