April Pension and Benefit Increases: How Much Will They Rise?
The rising cost of living in the UK is significantly impacting household finances. With September’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) reported at 3.8 percent, benefit and pension rate adjustments are expected in April 2026. Various changes will affect millions, particularly concerning state pension and universal credit, among others.
April Pension and Benefit Increases: Overview
Adjustments to state pensions and various benefits are set for April 2026, with several increases specified below.
State Pension Adjustments
The state pension will see a rise of 4.8 percent in April 2026, in line with wage growth. The new amounts are:
- Full new state pension: from £230.25 to £241.30 weekly
- Full basic state pension: from £176.45 to £184.92 weekly
This change will elevate the monthly total for the full new state pension to approximately £965.20, keeping it below the income tax personal allowance threshold.
Universal Credit Changes
The standard rate of Universal Credit (UC) will get an increase of 6.2 percent. The adjustments are as follows:
- Single, under 25: from £316.98 to £336.63 (+£19.65)
- Single, over 25: from £400.14 to £424.95 (+£24.81)
- Partners, both under 25: from £497.55 to £528.40 (+£30.85)
- Partners, one or both over 25: from £628.10 to £667.04 (+£38.94)
However, the health-related element for new UC claimants will be reduced from £105 to £50 monthly. Existing claimants will see the rate frozen at £97 a week until 2029/30.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Increases
PIP will rise by 3.8 percent in April. The updated payment rates include:
- Daily living, lower rate: from £73.90 to £77.45
- Daily living, higher rate: from £110.40 to £115.70
- Mobility, lower rate: from £29.20 to £30.60
- Mobility, higher rate: from £77.05 to £80.75
Pension Credit Adjustments
The guarantee amount of pension credit will also rise by 4.8 percent, aligning it with the state pension increases. This amount will increase from £227.10 to £238 a week.
Carer’s Allowance and Attendance Allowance Changes
Carer’s Allowance is anticipated to increase by 3.8 percent, moving from £83.30 to £86.47 weekly. Attendance Allowance will rise from £110.40 to £114.60 weekly, reflecting similar inflation rates.
Housing Benefit Status
Unlike other benefits, housing benefit payments are determined by local authorities and will remain frozen until April 2026. Recent announcements indicated a freeze following a period of adjustments to align with rental costs.
For a detailed guide on benefit and pension payment dates, as well as additional cost of living support, check updated resources from El-Balad.
