Millions of people receiving the State Pension and other Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits may experience delays in seeing the April 2025 payment increases in their bank accounts. While the new rates officially come into effect from April 7, 2025, most recipients won’t see the higher payments until May 2025 due to the structure of payment schedules.
Why the delay?
- Most benefits are paid in arrears, meaning payments cover the previous period rather than the current one.
- Recipients of Universal Credit and certain disability benefits face longer wait times due to monthly assessment cycles.
- Weekly or fortnightly State Pension recipients will receive increased payments earlier than those on monthly benefits.
Understanding the payment timeline is crucial to manage financial expectations during this transitional period.
What Are the New Payment Rates for 2025?
The State Pension triple lock ensures payments increase based on the highest of inflation, wage growth, or 2.5%. For 2025, increases are driven by average weekly earnings, resulting in a 4.1% rise for pensioners.
Updated State Pension Rates:
- New State Pension: £230.25 per week (£11,973 annually)
- Basic State Pension: £176.45 per week (£9,175 annually)
Universal Credit (From April 2025):
| Claimant Type | New Monthly Amount |
|---|---|
| Single under 25 | £316.98 |
| Single 25 and over | £400.14 |
| Joint claimants both under 25 | £497.55 |
| Joint claimants one or both over 25 | £628.10 |
Personal Independence Payment (PIP):
| Component | New Weekly Rate |
|---|---|
| Enhanced Daily Living | £110.40 |
| Enhanced Mobility | £77.05 |
Attendance Allowance:
- Higher rate: £110.40 per week
- Lower rate: £73.90 per week
Pension Credit (Standard Minimum Guarantee):
- Single claimants: £227.10 per week
- Couples: £346.60 per week
MUST READ: UK £200 Cost of Living Payment 2025 – Check Eligibility & Payment Date Now!
When Will You See the Increased Payments?
The DWP has clarified that although new rates are effective from April 7, 2025, payment dates vary based on benefit type and frequency.
| Benefit | Payment Frequency | Expected Date for New Rates |
|---|---|---|
| State Pension (weekly/fortnightly) | Weekly or every two weeks | From mid-April 2025 |
| Universal Credit | Monthly | Late April to early May 2025 |
| Personal Independence Payment | Monthly | May 2025 |
| Attendance Allowance | Monthly | May 2025 |
| Pension Credit | Weekly or monthly | Mid to late April 2025 |
Those receiving benefits linked to labour market participation, like Universal Credit, may face the longest waits.
Why Do Payment Delays Occur?
Several factors contribute to the delayed arrival of increased payments:
- Payments in Arrears: Most benefits, including Universal Credit and Carer’s Allowance, are calculated based on past assessment periods.
- Assessment Cycle Timing: Recipients whose assessment periods end in early April will typically see the increase in their May payments.
- Bank Processing Times: Even after the DWP processes payments, bank transfer times can add further delays.
How Do Devolved Benefits in Scotland Compare?
Scottish claimants receiving devolved benefits such as:
- Adult Disability Payment
- Child Disability Payment
- Pension Age Disability Payment
…will also see a 1.7% increase from April 2025. Payments in Scotland often follow similar arrears-based schedules, meaning most beneficiaries won’t see higher rates until late April or May.
What Should You Do If Your Payment Is Delayed?
If you haven’t received the expected increase by mid-May, here are steps to take:
- Check Your Payment Schedule: Review your benefit statement to confirm the processing dates.
- Contact DWP: Use official helplines to inquire about delays.
- Check Bank Processing Times: Sometimes, banks take extra days to process incoming payments.
- Verify Benefit Entitlements: Ensure no changes have been made to your eligibility.
FAQs
When will the new State Pension rates take effect?
The new rates take effect on April 7, 2025, but most claimants will see the increase in their May payments due to arrears-based schedules.
Why is there a delay in receiving the increased payments?
Payments are made four weeks in arrears, causing a delay between the rate change and when funds are received.
Who will receive the increased payments first?
Recipients of weekly or fortnightly State Pension payments will be the first to see the new rates, starting from mid-April.
How much will the State Pension increase in 2025?
- New State Pension: £230.25 per week
- Basic State Pension: £176.45 per week
Will Universal Credit recipients face delays?
Yes. Due to monthly assessment periods, many Universal Credit recipients won’t see increased payments until late April or May.
How much is Universal Credit increasing by?
Single claimants aged 25 and over will receive £400.14 per month, while couples may receive up to £628.10.
Are Scottish benefits affected differently?
No. While certain benefits are devolved, Scottish claimants will see similar delays due to arrears-based payments.
What should I do if I don’t receive the increased amount by May?
Contact the DWP or use the online account services to track your payment and resolve potential issues.
Click here to know more.
Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.
