A-Z of Benefits

(New claims from 6.4.05 will be considered under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme)

Who is it for?
Widow/ widower/ registered civil partners/ civil partner whose late husband’s/ wife’s death was a result of his or her service in HM Forces or during time of war, or had war pension assessed at 80% or more and in receipt of unemployability supplement or who had War Pension Constant Attendance allowance. Payable in some circumstances to partners.

Who pays it?
Service Personnel and Veterans Agency (SPVA)
Norcross
Blackpool
Freephone: 0800 169 2277
Textphone: 0800 169 3458
E-mail   veterans.help@spva.gsi.gov.uk
Internet  www.veterans-uk.info

Which leaflet? How is it claimed?
Special leaflets from Service Personnel and 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, but check uprating variations 

Points to watch
Help and advice contact Service Personnel and Veterans Agency Helpline – access to War Pensioners’ Welfare Service and ex-Service organisations

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