War Widow’s and Widower’s Pension

(Claims for deaths after 6.4.05 will be considered under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme)

Who is it for?
Widow whose husband’s death was due to service in the forces, or assessed as unemployable and at least 80% disabled due to service at time of death. Extended to war widowers in 2002 and in some cases to unmarried and registered civil partners.

Who pays it?
Veterans Agency (VA)
Norcross
Blackpool
Helpline: 0800 169 2277
E-mail   help@veteransagency.gsi.gov.uk
Internet  www.veteransagency.mod.uk

Which leaflet? How is it claimed?
Special leaflets from Veterans Agency 

What are the age limits?
None.

National Insurance based?
No. Cannot be paid in addition to NI bereavement / widows benefit but usually higher anyway.  Can be paid in addition to other NI benefits.

Means Tested?
No.

How long does it last?
Varies according to widow’s circumstances

What is effect on other benefits?
Usually some part of it is disregarded by means tested benefits.

Is it taxable?
No.

Increases for dependants?
Yes 

Payable if in EU or other?
Yes 

Points to watch
Contact Veterans Agency, or service organisations if help needed.

The A-Z of Benefits 2007 was compiled by Gary Vaux and Community Care.