need assist in what a benefits issue

[the skier]

hi not sure how to start as it a question on assistance for mother in law having never had to claim dole im at a lost but here goes father in law passed away this year was on disability i think as he was 70+ and had triple bypassetc etc my question is wot now is she entitled too as doesnt get any rent help any help with bills council tax etc etcshe does have a daughter living with her who works but not a well paid job but its a job it seems with him passing away everything stops that cant be right?? any advise or where she needs to be pointed to the right direction is most welcome

[mrsc]

Not 100% sure but I think the first thing to do would be to contact the local benefit office, I am sure they will keep her right on what she could apply for there is also a website you could try Entitledto

Hope this helps I am sure someone more clued up on these things will be along soon.

Good luck

[caro]

Might be worth her applying for Pension Credits. The Pension Service - Pension Credit - Am I entitled to Pension Credit?

[Billyhunt]

Hi the skier,

How old is your mother inlaw?
Is she in good health herself?
You say her daughter works, do you know how many hours a week?
Was your father lnlaw receiving Disability Living allowance or Attendance Allowance before he passed away?
If your mother inlaw is a pensioner, does she just get a state pension or does she get an occupational one?
Sorry for all the questions but if you provide some more info, I might be able to give you more of an idea of what she may be entitled to claim.

regards, Billy.

[mrsc]

Have a read here
What to do when someone dies : Directgov - Government, citizens and rights

[dg1]

If this is a recent death then a good first start is to ask for a bereavement interview with the local benefits agency (Job Centre/Social Security Office). They will assist you to claim Bereavement Benefit, review any benefits or entitlements your mother can now claim in her own right and also ensure that your late father's benefits are terminated properly

If the death was some time ago then a good step now would be to speak with your local council's advice shop. Most have one. They will be able to do a benefits check for your mother to see whether she is getting everything she is entitled to

Alternatively, the Citizens Advice Bureau should be able to do a benefits check for her

[emmaf01]

The local council welfare rights officer will definitely be able to help with both DWP benefits and council tax/housing benefit if necessary. I am sure that it would help if her daughter went along too, in case any question come up about the total household income.

As the CAB is hopelessly oversubscribed in some areas, the welfare rights officer is a good option.