The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced changes to benefit payment dates in April 2025 due to Easter bank holidays. If you receive benefits like Universal Credit, State Pension, or Disability Living Allowance (DLA), you may get your payment earlier than usual. Along with these adjustments, the government has also confirmed an increase in benefit rates and an extension of financial support programs.

This article will help you understand:

• When your benefits will be paid in April 2025
• How much your payments will increase
• What additional support you can access
• How to plan your budget accordingly

Whether you’re a retiree, jobseeker, carer, or someone managing finances for a loved one, staying informed about these changes is crucial.

April 2025 Benefit Payment Dates

Since Easter falls on April 18 (Good Friday) and April 21 (Easter Monday), the DWP will process some payments earlier. If your regular payment date falls on one of these holidays, you’ll receive your money on Thursday, April 17, 2025.

Benefits Affected by Early Payments

• Universal Credit
• State Pension
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• Child Benefit
• Carer’s Allowance
• Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
• Attendance Allowance
• Income Support
• Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)

If your usual payment date is not affected by the Easter holidays, you will receive your benefits as scheduled.

Benefit Increases Starting April 2025

To help people manage the rising cost of living, the government is increasing benefit payments from April 2025.

1. State Pension Increase

The State Pension will rise by 4.1%, following the “triple lock” system, which considers wage growth, inflation, and a minimum increase of 2.5%.

• New full State Pension: £230.25 per week (up from £221.20)
• Basic State Pension: £169.50 per week (up from £162.70)

If you are eligible for the State Pension, this increase will automatically apply.

2. Universal Credit and Other Working-Age Benefits

Most working-age benefits will increase by 1.7%, based on the inflation rate from September 2024. Here are the updated Universal Credit rates:

Household Type	Old Rate (2024)	New Rate (2025)
Single under 25	£311.68	£316.98
Single 25+	£393.45	£400.13
Couple under 25	£489.23	£497.54
Couple 25+	£617.60	£628.10

Other benefits like ESA, JSA, PIP, and DLA will also see similar increases.

3. Universal Credit Deduction Cap Reduction

Currently, if you owe money to the DWP, up to 25% of your Universal Credit payment can be deducted. From April 2025, this will be reduced to 15%, allowing low-income households to keep more of their payments.

Household Support Fund Extended

The Household Support Fund (HSF), which helps struggling families with essentials like food and energy bills, has been extended into 2025-2026 with a budget of £742 million.

Each local council manages its own support programs, so eligibility and application processes may vary. If you need assistance, check your council’s website to apply for food vouchers or bill support.

How to Prepare for These Changes

Here are some key steps to ensure you’re financially ready for the April 2025 benefit updates:

1. Check Your Payment Schedule

If your benefit is due on April 18 or 21, note that you will receive it on April 17 instead. Set up alerts with your bank to track your payment.

2. Use Benefit Calculators

Websites like Turn2Us and EntitledTo can help you estimate your benefits after the April increase. Benefit Calculators

3. Apply Early for Support Funds

Household Support Fund applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Apply early to maximize your chances of receiving assistance.

4. Plan Your Budget Around Increased Benefits

Though the benefit increases are modest, they can still help. Consider using the extra funds for essential expenses, debt repayment, or savings.

(FAQs)

1. Will all benefits be affected by Easter bank holidays?
No, only those scheduled for April 18 or 21 will be paid earlier on April 17.

2. Do I need to apply for the increased benefit rates?
No, these increases will be applied automatically to your payments.

3. How can I check my eligibility for the Household Support Fund?
Visit your local council’s website for details on available support and eligibility criteria.

4. What should I do if I don’t receive my payment on time?
Wait until the end of April 17 before contacting DWP. If you still haven’t received your money, call the DWP helpline.

5. What’s the best way to manage multiple benefits?
Consider using a benefits management tool or seek advice from Citizens Advice or a local welfare officer.

Conclusion

The April 2025 DWP payment changes bring early benefit deposits, increased rates, and extended financial support to help with the rising cost of living. If your payment date falls on April 18 or 21, you’ll receive it early on April 17.

With State Pension and Universal Credit increases, a lower deduction cap, and the Household Support Fund extension, now is the time to review your finances. Check your payment schedule, plan your budget, and apply for available support to ensure financial stability.