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The Widow Pension (also known as Widow’s Pension or Widow Benefit) is a financial assistance scheme provided by governments to support widows after the death of their spouses. The eligibility, amount, and application process vary by country. Below is a general overview:

Key Features of Widow Pension:

1. Eligibility:

   • The applicant must be a widow/widower (some schemes also cover surviving partners in de facto relationships).

   • Age criteria may apply (e.g., some pensions are for older widows, while others support younger ones with children).

   • Income and asset tests may be required.

   • The deceased spouse must have contributed to social security or pension schemes (in some countries).

2. Benefits:

   • Monthly pension payments.

   • Additional allowances for dependent children (in some cases).

   • Healthcare benefits or subsidies.

3. Documents Required (varies by country):

   • Death certificate of the spouse.

   • Marriage certificate (or proof of relationship).

   • Identity proof (national ID, passport).

   • Bank details for direct deposit.

   • Income and asset statements.

Country-Specific Widow Pensions:

• India:

  • Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS) – Provides ₹300–500/month to widows below the poverty line.

  • State-specific widow pensions (e.g., ₹1000–2000/month in some states).

• USA:

  • Social Security Survivor Benefits – Widows/widowers can receive benefits based on the deceased spouse’s Social Security contributions.

  • Eligibility starts at age 60 (50 if disabled) or at any age if caring for a child under 16.

• UK:

  • Bereavement Support Payment – A one-time payment followed by monthly installments for up to 18 months.

  • Widowed Parent’s Allowance – For those with dependent children.

• Canada:

  • Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Survivor’s Pension – Monthly payments to the surviving spouse/partner.

• Australia:

  • Age Pension or Bereavement Allowance – Support for widows depending on age and income.

How to Apply?

• Visit the official government pension portal of your country.

• Submit required documents (online or offline).

• Some countries require applications within a specific time frame after the spouse’s death.