Starting April 2025, millions of UK residents will see an increase in their benefits and pensions, including Universal Credit, Child Benefit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and the State Pension. This annual adjustment is based on inflation data from the previous September, ensuring that payments keep pace with the cost of living.
While most benefits will increase by 1.7%, the State Pension follows the triple lock guarantee, which ensures it rises by the highest of inflation, wage growth, or a fixed 2.5%. This year, pensioners will receive a 4.1% boost in their payments. Below, we explore how these changes impact different benefits and what they mean for claimants.
Universal Credit Increase in April 2025
Universal Credit, which replaces six older benefits—including Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, and Housing Benefit—will see an increase in payments. Over six million people currently receive Universal Credit in the UK.
New Universal Credit Rates (April 2025)
| Claimant Category | Current Amount (Per Month) | New Amount (Per Month) |
|---|---|---|
| Single (under 25) | £311.68 | £316.98 |
| Single (25 or over) | £393.45 | £400.14 |
| Couple (both under 25) | £489.23 | £497.55 |
| Couple (one or both 25 or over) | £617.60 | £628.10 |
Additionally, child benefits, disability benefits, and work allowances within Universal Credit will also see an increase, providing further financial relief to eligible recipients.
Child Benefit Increase in April 2025
Child Benefit, a financial support payment for parents or guardians raising children, will also increase from April 2025.
- First or eldest child: Increases from £25.60 per week to £26.05 per week
- Each additional child: Rises from £16.95 per week to £17.25 per week
For families, this adjustment ensures that support keeps up with inflation, helping parents manage essential childcare costs.
State Pension Increase: 4.1% Rise in April 2025
The State Pension follows the triple lock guarantee, meaning it increases by the highest of wage growth, inflation, or a minimum of 2.5%. Given economic conditions, pensioners will see a 4.1% increase in their payments.
New State Pension Rates
| Pension Type | Current Weekly Rate | New Weekly Rate |
| Full New State Pension | £221.20 | £230.25 |
| Full Basic State Pension | £169.50 | £176.45 |
This rise ensures that pensioners have more financial stability as living costs increase.
Disability and Carer Benefits Increases
Several disability-related benefits, including Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA), will also increase.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
| Benefit Type | Current Weekly Rate | New Weekly Rate |
| PIP Daily Living (Lower) | £72.65 | £73.90 |
| PIP Daily Living (Higher) | £108.55 | £110.40 |
| PIP Mobility (Lower) | £28.70 | £29.20 |
| PIP Mobility (Higher) | £75.75 | £77.05 |
Attendance Allowance (For Those Over State Pension Age)
| Rate | Current Weekly Amount | New Weekly Amount |
| Lower Rate | £72.65 | £73.90 |
| Higher Rate | £108.55 | £110.40 |
Carer’s Allowance
Carer’s Allowance, which supports individuals caring for someone at least 35 hours per week, will increase from £81.90 per week to £83.30 per week.
Childcare Cost Element – £1,768.94 a Month in April 2025
For families receiving help with childcare costs, the maximum amount claimable will rise:
- For one child: Increases from £1,014.63 per month to £1,031.88 per month
- For two or more children: Rises from £1,739.37 per month to £1,768.94 per month
This increase ensures that working parents continue to receive sufficient support to manage childcare expenses effectively.
Pension Credit Increase
Pension Credit helps supplement the income of older individuals who are on a low income. From April 2025, it will increase as follows:
| Category | Current Weekly Rate | New Weekly Rate |
| Single Claimant | £218.15 | £227.10 |
| Couple (Both Eligible) | £332.95 | £346.60 |
Individuals receiving Pension Credit may also qualify for additional benefits such as council tax discounts and free TV licences for over-75s.
Conclusion
The April 2025 benefit and pension increases aim to support millions of UK residents facing rising living costs. With a 4.1% boost in State Pension, higher Universal Credit payments, increased Child Benefit, and enhanced support for disabled individuals and carers, these changes will provide much-needed financial relief.
| Check Your Pension Amount | Details |
|---|---|
| Online | Visit the official UK government website or use the DWP and HMRC online portals to check your pension amount. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much will Universal Credit increase in April 2025?
Universal Credit payments will rise by 1.7%, with a single person over 25 now receiving £400.14 per month instead of £393.45.
2. What is the triple lock guarantee for State Pension?
The triple lock guarantee ensures that the State Pension increases by the highest of inflation, wage growth, or 2.5%. In 2025, this results in a 4.1% increase.
3. Will Child Benefit payments increase?
Yes, the first child’s payment will rise from £25.60 to £26.05 per week, while additional children’s payments increase from £16.95 to £17.25 per week.
4. What is the new Carer’s Allowance rate?
From April 2025, Carer’s Allowance will increase from £81.90 per week to £83.30 per week.
5. How can I check my updated benefit payments?
You can check your updated benefit payments through DWP and HMRC portals or visit the official UK government website for more details.
For further updates, stay informed by regularly checking government announcements and online benefit calculators.
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