What to expect from the widow allowance
The prospect of your partner passing away is one of the sad realities of getting older. Aside from being mentally and emotionally draining, this can also leave you in a precarious financial position. And while financial obligations are probably the last thing on your mind in a situation like this, in the end of the day they’re still going to be there.
We’re going to look at the government allowances designed to help widows. But knowing what to expect, you’re in a better placed to receive assistance should you need it.
Types of assistance available
The government offers two forms of support for widows – the Bereavement Allowance and the Widow Allowance. The Bereavement Allowance is designed to provide an adequate level of income while you’re making funeral arrangement and settling financial affairs.
The Widow Allowance on the other hand is designed to provide more continual support to help you meet the mounting financial challenges of tomorrow. If you were born on or before 1 July 1955, have no recent workforce experience and have become widowed since turning 40 you may be eligible to qualify for the Widow Allowance.
Widow Allowance eligibility criteria
To be eligible as a recipient of the Widow Allowance, you must fulfil the following requirements as stated by the Australian Department of Human Services:
- Be a woman born on or before 1 July 1955.
- Not be a member of a couple.
- Have become widowed, divorced or separated since turning 40.
- Have no recent workforce experience - this means you have not been employed for 20 hours a week or more, for a total of 13 weeks at any time, in the 12 months immediately before you claim.
- Meet income and asset tests.
- Meet residence requirements.
Source: Centrelink
It’s important to note that you do not have to look for work to receive the Widow Allowance, but you are allowed to receive help to improve prospects and learn new skills.
Do you know someone who’s struggled to make ends meet in these circumstances? Please share your stories in the comments below.
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