In Desperate Straits

My husband passed 5 weeks ago today. I am retired ex U.K., living in France for 16 years.
All of my savings have gone into paying for a simple funeral for my husband. I have my own State Pension, and will also receive 50% of my husbands private pension. I let both pensions know within a few days of my husbands death.

My husband was always paid on the last day of the month and I had budgeted for receiving money today. Nothing was received in my bank account and so I phoned them. It appears they sent me forms, but I have not received these.
They kindly emailed me the forms, and I have sent these back today. I am not sure how long this will take to action. In the meantime, if I pay my bills, I cannot afford to eat or put petrol in my car until I start receiving income, and I am unsure how long this will be.
I was told I might get a little more added to my State Pension, but they told me that they have a huge backlog to deal with. So what am I supposed to live on in the meantime?
I am beside myself with the grief and worry. Has anyone else been in this situation?

Im sorry to hear this, do you have family that you can turn to?

PaulK
My family live in the U.K. and have a small daughter to bring up. I doubt whether they could help. How do other people cope with an uncertain time without money after a bereavement?

You may be able to claim Bereavement Benefit from DWP. This expressly to help in these circumstances. It can be payable despite you living abroad. There is a guide in Sue Ryder website. Good luck.

Hi Nimrod
Thank you for replying. I have been in touch with them, and they said it will be looked at, but at the moment there is a huge backlog.

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