Bereavement Payments and Benefits in Ireland

The Department of Social Protection provides several ongoing payments and once-off supports for bereaved people. What you are entitled to depends on your circumstances — whether you were married or in a civil partnership, whether you have children, and the PRSI record of the deceased. If you'd rather have a plan built around your situation, answer a few questions and we'll put one together →

Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s Contributory Pension

The main ongoing payment for surviving spouses and civil partners. Entitlement is based on PRSI contributions — either your own or the deceased’s. You do not need to have paid PRSI yourself if the deceased had sufficient contributions. The payment is non-means-tested and you can continue to work while receiving it.

This payment was previously called the Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's Contributory Pension, and was extended to include qualifying cohabitants in July 2025. Apply to the Department of Social Protection. Bring the death certificate, marriage or civil partnership certificate (or evidence of cohabitation), both PPS numbers, and bank details. Current rates are at welfare.ie.

Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s Non-Contributory Pension

A means-tested alternative for those who do not qualify for the contributory pension due to insufficient PRSI contributions. Previously called the Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's Non-Contributory Pension. Your income and assets are assessed. Higher rates apply if you have dependent children. Apply at your local Intreo Centre or at welfare.ie.

One-Parent Family Payment

If you are parenting alone following a bereavement and have at least one dependent child under 7 (extended in certain circumstances), you may qualify for the One-Parent Family Payment. It is means-tested. Apply at your local Intreo Centre.

Guardian’s Payment

If a child has been orphaned — both parents have died — the guardian may be entitled to a Guardian’s Payment (Contributory or Non-Contributory) depending on the deceased parents’ PRSI record. This supports the person caring for the child.

Death Benefit — Occupational Injuries Scheme

If the deceased died as a direct result of a workplace accident or occupational disease, the surviving spouse may be entitled to a weekly pension under the Occupational Injuries Scheme at a higher rate than the standard Widow’s Pension. Apply through the DSP.

Additional Needs Payment

If you are facing immediate financial hardship — including difficulty meeting funeral costs — you can apply for an Additional Needs Payment (ANP) from the DSP. These are one-off payments assessed on a case-by-case basis. Apply at your local Intreo Centre with evidence of your income and the costs you are facing.