The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced new weekly payment rates for State Pension and benefits, with increases set to take effect from April. Nearly 13 million pensioners will see a 4.8 per cent rise in their State Pension, while working-age and disability benefits will increase by 3.8 per cent.
From April, the full new State Pension will rise by approximately £11 per week. The Standard Minimum Guarantee in Pension Credit will also increase by 4.8 per cent, reaching £238.00 weekly for single pensioners and £363.25 for couples.
Secretary of State Pat McFadden confirmed that the Universal Credit Standard Allowance will increase by around £295 annually for single people aged 25 or over, and £465 for couples where one partner is 25 or over. Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Carer's Allowance will also see a 3.8 per cent uplift.
In Scotland, devolved benefits such as Adult Disability Payment are expected to rise in line with DWP rates to avoid a two-tier system, though the Scottish Budget on 13 January 2026 will confirm details. Northern Ireland, where social security is a transferred matter, will follow similar increases.
The DWP will send annual uprating letters to all claimants before the new rates commence. A full breakdown of all benefits, including additional payments and the benefit cap, is available on GOV.UK.
