The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially published its proposed new payment rates for Universal Credit, set to take effect from April 2026. This announcement impacts over eight million recipients across the United Kingdom, outlining significant changes to the benefit system.
Increases in Standard Allowances
Under the new Universal Credit Act, the standard allowance—the base amount before any deductions or additional elements—will see a rise above the rate of inflation. For single claimants aged 25 and over, this is projected to result in an estimated total increase of £725 per year by the 2029/30 financial period.
Changes to Health-Related Elements
However, the news is not entirely positive, particularly for individuals with health issues. The Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (LCWRA) element, which provides extra monthly support for those whose health or disability limits work ability, will be reduced for new claimants. Starting this April, it will be capped at £217.26 per month, a sharp decrease from the current £423.27.
For existing claimants, there is a slight increase to £429.80 per month. By 2030, the LCWRA element will be completely phased out and replaced with a new health element linked to Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
Payment Schedule and Timing
Universal Credit is paid in arrears, meaning most claimants will not receive the full new amount until after the first payment cycle following April 13. Consequently, the majority of recipients are expected to see the updated rates reflected in their bank accounts no earlier than June 2026.
Detailed Payment Rates for 2026/27
The DWP has provided a comprehensive list of the new rates:
- Single Under 25: £338.58 per month (up from £316.98)
- Single 25 or Over: £424.90 per month (up from £400.14)
- Couples Both Under 25: £528.34 per month (up from £497.55)
- Couples One or Both 25 or Over: £666.97 per month (up from £628.10)
- First Child (Born Before April 6, 2017): £351.88 per month (up from £339)
- First Child (Born On or After April 6, 2017) or Subsequent Child: £303.94 per month (up from £292.81)
- Limited Capability for Work: £158.76 per month (unchanged)
- Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (New Claimants): £217.26 per month (down from £423.27)
- Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (Existing Claimants): £429.80 per month (up from £423.27)
- Carer Amount: £209.34 per month (up from £201.68)
- Higher Work Allowance: £710 per month (up from £684)
- Lower Work Allowance: £427 per month (up from £411)
For a full breakdown of additional elements and potential deductions, claimants are advised to visit the official GOV.UK website.
