What You Get
If your partner dies and they were receiving a Centrelink payment (Age Pension, DSP, Carer Payment, etc.), you may receive:
- Lump sum bereavement payment: Equal to approximately 4 weeks of the deceased's payment
- Continued payment at couple rate: Your own payment continues at the couple rate for 14 weeks (rather than immediately switching to the single rate)
If the Deceased Was Not on Centrelink
If the deceased was not receiving a Centrelink payment, there is no bereavement payment. However, the surviving partner should check their eligibility for other payments — they may now qualify for the single rate of Age Pension, Parenting Payment Single, or JobSeeker.
How to Claim
Contact Services Australia on 132 300 as soon as possible after the death. They'll guide you through the process. You don't need to visit in person — most of it can be handled by phone.
Other Financial Help
- Check the deceased's super fund — death benefits may be payable
- Check for life insurance policies
- The deceased's final tax return needs to be lodged
- Apply for probate if they owned property or had significant assets
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the bereavement payment?
A lump sum equal to approximately 4 weeks of the deceased's Centrelink payment. The surviving partner also continues to receive their own payment at the couple rate for 14 weeks.
Do I need to notify Centrelink?
Yes — as soon as possible. Call 132 300. The deceased's payments need to stop, and your own situation may change (e.g., moving to single rate).