April 2025 marks the beginning of the new financial year, bringing increased benefit rates, higher pensions, and a bump in the minimum wage. However, these boosts are also met with rising household bills, making it critical for families and pensioners to stay informed about their payment dates and available support.
What’s Changing in April 2025?
From April 2025, most Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits are increasing by 1.7%, while the State Pension is rising by 4.1% under the triple lock mechanism. The minimum wage also sees an inflation-beating rise of 6.7%, equating to an annual increase of around £1,400 for full-time workers.
At the same time, households are bracing for increased energy, council tax, and water bills. This makes timely benefit payments all the more important.
Updated Benefit Payment Dates in April
If you normally receive any DWP-administered benefit on 18 April (Good Friday) or 21 April (Easter Monday), you’ll be paid early on Thursday, 17 April 2025.
Payments affected include:
- Universal Credit
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
- Child Benefit
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
For full details, refer to the official UK government benefit payment calendar.
When Are State Pensions Paid?
State Pensions are paid every four weeks, with the specific day determined by the last two digits of your National Insurance (NI) number:
- 00 to 19: Monday
- 20 to 39: Tuesday
- 40 to 59: Wednesday
- 60 to 79: Thursday
- 80 to 99: Friday
This means your April 2025 pension dates will vary, but payments around public holidays will be adjusted accordingly.
Financial Context and Rising Concerns
Despite these increases, many low-income families remain concerned about the affordability of essential services. Research from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation shows that over 14.3 million people in the UK were living in poverty in 2022/23—including 8.1 million working-age adults and 1.9 million pensioners.
New welfare system reforms announced by the Labour government include £5 million in cuts, adjustments to Universal Credit rates next year, and tighter criteria for PIP eligibility.
Tips to Maximise Your Support
- Apply early: If you’re due new benefits or top-ups, apply ahead of time.
- Use calculators: Tools like the Policy in Practice benefits calculator help identify unclaimed support.
- Track your payments: Use the DWP’s online account or new app for real-time updates.
- Seek advice: Free help is available from Citizens Advice and local councils.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When will I get paid if my payment date is on Good Friday?
You’ll receive your benefit or pension on Thursday, 17 April 2025 instead of Friday, 18 April.
What if my payment is due on Easter Monday?
You’ll also be paid early on Thursday, 17 April 2025.
How much is the pension increase in April 2025?
The State Pension is increasing by 4.1% under the triple lock.
Are all benefits increasing in April?
Yes. Most DWP-administered benefits are going up by 1.7% to match inflation.
Where can I check my benefit payment schedule?
Visit the gov.uk benefit payment dates page or log into your DWP online account for exact details.
Click here to know more.
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