Death Benefit
If a person dies because of an accident at work or occupational disease, Death Benefit in the form of a taxable pension may be paid to their surviving spouse or civil partner.
It may also be paid if at the time of their death the person was getting Disablement Pension for loss of at least half of their physical or mental ability, regardless of the cause of death.
Death Benefit in the form of a non-taxable grant may be payable to the person responsible for funeral expenses.
The above conditions apply to all payments under Death Benefit which include:
- Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's Pension
- Guardian's Payment
- Funeral Grant.
A Death Benefit Pension is payable at a higher rate than a standard Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's Contributory Pension. Rate of payment in 2012:
| Death Benefit Pension |
|
| Widow, widower or surviving civil partner (under 66) weekly |
€218.50 |
| Widow, widower or surviving civil partner (under 66) weekly |
€234.70 |
| Widow, widower or surviving civil partner (under 66) weekly |
€244.70 |
| Increase for a qualified child weekly |
€29.80 |
| Guardian's Payment (per qualified child) weekly |
€164.80 |
| Funeral Grant (once-off lump sum) |
€850.00 |
Please note that a Death Benefit Pension cannot be paid at the same time as a Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's Contributory Pension and only one of a Funeral Grant and Bereavement Grant are payable.
Where to apply
Your completed application form should be returned to Death Benefit Section below. For more information on Death Benefit, contact your Social Welfare Local Office or the Death Benefit Section.
Department of Social Protection
Social Welfare Services Office
Government Buildings
Ballinalee Road
Longford
Tel:(043) 3334794 or (043) 334 0000
Locall:1890 927 770