Death benefits in the event of loss of a spouse

When a spouse dies, widows or widowers may acquire the right to pay death benefits and extended death benefits.

Conditions

The surviving spouse must:

• have been married or registered as cohabiting for one year or more with the deceased,

• be under 67 years of age.

Exceptions

• People in registered cohabitation, which has lasted for less than 1 year, may be entitled to death benefits if they have a child together.

• The same rights are created if a woman is pregnant and her spouse dies.

Other rights

• A widow or a spouse may use their tax card for 8 months after their death.

• You can apply for a reduction in income and property tax. For further information, contact the tax offices.

• The surviving spouse may apply for a reduction in the income tax base at the Directorate of Internal Revenue.

• The surviving spouse may also be entitled to a benefit from trade unions, support from social services of the municipalities or insurance companies.

Other payments that the applicant may be entitled to and must apply for:

• Child maintenance if there are children under the age of 18 who are on the applicant's behalf.

• Single parent allowance if there are 2 or more children on the applicant's behalf.

• Home allowance for pensioners living alone if the applicant is a pensioner and lives alone.

If the deceased was the parent of a young person between the ages of 18 and 20, the child's right to child pensions for study or training may arise.

Payment arrangements

Death benefits are paid for 6 months to those who become widows or widows under 67 years of age.

Death benefits are continued after the recipient has reached the age of 67 if the right to the benefits was created before the age of 67.

Payments cancelled

• upon moving from the country,

• if the recipient gets married.