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In 2025, the Centrelink Bereavement Payment continues to offer vital financial support to Australians coping with the loss of a loved one.
Eligible individuals may receive up to $780 or more to help cover funeral and living expenses following the death of a partner or dependent.
This article explains who qualifies, how to claim, and what to expect from this one-off Centrelink payment.
What Is the Centrelink Bereavement Payment?
The Bereavement Payment is a one-time lump sum provided by Services Australia to help ease the financial burden after the death of:
- A partner
- A child or dependent
- A person you cared for
In most cases, eligible Centrelink recipients (such as Age Pensioners, Disability Support Pensioners, and Carer Payment recipients) receive up to $780, although the amount can vary depending on the type of payment received before the death.
Purpose of the Payment
- Help with funeral expenses
- Provide short-term financial relief
- Support transition to a single-income household
Who Qualifies for the $780 Bereavement Payment?
Eligibility for the Bereavement Payment depends on your relationship with the deceased and the type of Centrelink support you were receiving. You may qualify if:
- You were receiving a partnered Centrelink payment (e.g., Age Pension, Carer Payment)
- The deceased was a Centrelink payment recipient
- You were a carer of the deceased or were financially dependent on them
- A dependent child or partner passed away and you were jointly responsible for care
Centrelink Bereavement Payment Amount in 2025
The exact payment varies. Here are general estimates based on recent updates:
| Situation | Estimated Bereavement Payment |
|---|---|
| Partner dies, you were both on Age Pension | Up to $780 lump sum |
| Partner dies, on Carer Payment or DSP | Up to 14 weeks’ worth of joint payment |
| Death of a cared-for person | One-off adjustment (varies) |
| Dependent child dies | One-time bereavement adjustment |
The maximum $780 is typically given to Age Pensioners when their partner passes and both were receiving the pension.
How to Claim the Centrelink Bereavement Payment
To claim the payment, follow these steps:
- Report the death to Centrelink as soon as possible through myGov, by phone, or in person.
- Update your relationship status and personal details.
- Complete any forms requested by Services Australia.
- Payments are usually processed within 1–2 weeks once eligibility is confirmed.
Centrelink may automatically assess your entitlement based on updated records, especially if both partners were already receiving government support.
How Long Do Payments Continue After Death?
If you and your partner were both receiving Centrelink payments (e.g., Age Pension), your partner’s portion will usually continue for up to 14 weeks after death to give you financial breathing space.
This period is called the Bereavement Period, and you may receive a lump sum equivalent to those 14 weeks, depending on the circumstances.
Support Beyond the Bereavement Payment
In addition to the $780 Bereavement Payment, you may also be eligible for:
- Funeral Assistance Schemes from your state or territory
- Concession Card updates or benefits for widowed individuals
- Centrelink Payment Reassessments (e.g., switching to single rate Age Pension)
- Free counselling and financial guidance via Services Australia support services
Losing a loved one is emotionally and financially challenging. In 2025, the Centrelink Bereavement Payment—worth up to $780 or more—offers critical short-term relief for pensioners, carers, and families.
If you’ve experienced a recent loss, contact Services Australia promptly to ensure you receive the support you’re entitled to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Do I have to apply for the Centrelink Bereavement Payment manually?
Not always. If Centrelink already has your relationship and payment details, the payment may be automatic. However, it’s always best to notify them of the death directly and confirm your eligibility.
Q2. Is the Bereavement Payment taxed or counted as income?
No. The Bereavement Payment is tax-free and does not count as income for other Centrelink purposes. It’s treated as a separate, one-time support payment.
Q3. Can I receive both the Bereavement Payment and other funeral help?
Yes. You may still qualify for state-based funeral assistance, charity support, or superannuation death benefits in addition to the Centrelink Bereavement Payment.