Introduction

When someone close to you dies, especially a spouse or civil partner, your financial situation may be affected.

If you need to go through probate, it may be several months before you receive all the funds due to you. Using professional help with probate may be helpful for planning the future, e.g setting up trusts, to make best use of your inheritance and using the permitted means of paying some tax over a period of time if necessary.

Other people may be anxious about loss of income and experiencing financial need. We can explain those benefits that relate specifically to a death (see also the section on paying for the funeral) and give you contact details for your local Jobcentre Plus for advice on benefits if you have a low income.