Millions of people claiming benefits or the state pension will see their payments increase from April. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has now confirmed the new rates — but headlines don’t always explain what this actually means for families trying to make ends meet.
This post breaks it down clearly, with a focus on Universal Credit, child-related payments, and disability benefits, and what these changes could mean in real terms.
Why Are Benefits Increasing?
Each year, many benefits are adjusted in line with inflation to reflect the rising cost of living.
From April:
- Some benefits will increase by 3.8%
- Others by 2.3%
- The state pension will rise by 4.8%
These increases are automatic — you do not need to reapply.
Universal Credit: New Monthly Rates From April
Universal Credit is a means-tested benefit. What you receive depends on your income, savings, household makeup, and additional elements such as disability or housing costs.
From April, the standard monthly allowance will increase to:
- Single person under 25:
£338.58 (up from £316.98) - Single person aged 25 or over:
£424.90 (up from £400.14) - Joint claimants both under 25:
£528.34 (up from £497.50) - Joint claimants both aged 25 or over:
£666.97 (up from £628.10)
These figures are the base rate — before child elements, disability elements, or housing support are added.
A Major Change for Parents: The End of the Two-Child Benefit Cap
One of the most significant changes for families is the end of the two-child benefit cap.
Until now, families on Universal Credit could only receive child elements for two children, even if they had more. From April, this restriction will be removed.
New Child Element Rates
- £351.88 per month for a first child born before 6 April 2017
- £303.94 per month for any other child
This change will particularly affect larger families and SEND households who were previously excluded from support for additional children.
Attendance Allowance: New Weekly Rates
Attendance Allowance is for people over state pension age who need help with personal care due to illness or disability.
It is not means-tested, which means savings and income do not affect eligibility.
From April:
- Higher rate: £114.60 per week (up from £110.40)
- Lower rate: £76.70 per week (up from £73.90)
Attendance Allowance can also increase entitlement to other support, including help with council tax or carers’ benefits.
Will These Increases Make Families Better Off?
While these rises are welcome, many families — especially SEND families — may still feel under pressure due to:
- Rising food and energy costs
- Increased care and disability-related expenses
- Reduced access to local support services
For some households, the increase may only offset part of these rising costs.
What You Should Do Now
- Check your entitlement: Many people are eligible for support but aren’t claiming.
- Review your award notice in April: Make sure the new rates have been applied correctly.
- Seek advice if your circumstances have changed: This includes caring responsibilities, disability, or changes to household income.
Need Help Understanding What You’re Entitled To?
The benefits system is complex — and often unclear by design.
At AskEllie, we help families and disabled people:
- Understand benefit changes
- Check what they may be entitled to
- Make sense of confusing DWP letters
- Access support without jargon or judgement
👉 Visit AskEllie.co.uk for clear, practical guidance.
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