Universal Credit Pay Rise: Thousands to Benefit from Increased Payments
Thousands of households on Universal Credit will see a significant increase in their benefit payments this month, as the new rates came into effect on April 7. According to The Sun, the benefit payments rose by 1.7%, in line with the consumer price index (CPI) level of inflation for September 2024.
The new rates will be applied to Universal Credit payments, but the exact date of the payment boost will depend on the individual’s assessment period. As reported by The Sun, people on Universal Credit have to wait longer to receive the uprating because of how the benefit is assessed. The assessment period begins the day the claim is made, and the new rates will not come into effect until after the first full one-month assessment period, which started on or after April 7.
Those whose assessment period started after April 7 saw their benefits rise as early as May 13, while others may have to wait until June 12 to receive the payment boost. The Sun has provided a list of when individuals can expect to receive the payment boost based on their previous assessment period. For example, those with an assessment period from March 28 to April 27 will receive the increased payment on June 1, while those with an assessment period from April 6 to May 5 will receive the increased payment on June 12.
The new Universal Credit rates for 2025-26 have also been released, showing an increase in the standard allowance and other benefits. As quoted in The Sun, the new rates include:
- Single, under 25: £316.98 (up from £311.68)
- Single, 25 or over: £400.14 (up from £393.45)
- Joint claimants both under 25: £497.55 (up from £489.23)
- Joint claimants, one or both 25+: £628.10 (up from £617.60)
Additionally, there are increases in the extra amounts for limited capability for work, work-related activity, and carer’s element. The Sun reports that individuals can also check if they are eligible for other benefits, such as the Household Support Fund (HSF), which provides help to those on benefits, including Universal Credit.
Councils across England have started distributing support to those on benefits, including Universal Credit, through the HSF. For example, Middlesbrough Council is issuing payments worth up to £120 to those who are struggling. Individuals can contact their council to find out what help is on offer by visiting gov.uk/find-local-council.
As The Sun notes, individuals can use benefits calculators, such as those provided by Turn2Us, Entitledto, and MoneySavingExpert.com, to check if they are eligible for various benefits, tax credit, and Universal Credit. By using these calculators, individuals can determine which benefits they could receive and how much cash they will have left over each month after paying for housing costs.
In conclusion, the Universal Credit pay rise will benefit thousands of households, with increased payments being made from June. As reported by The Sun, individuals can check the new rates and see if they are eligible for other benefits, such as the Household Support Fund. By taking advantage of these resources, individuals can ensure they are receiving the support they need.
