In a much-welcomed financial uplift, millions of state pensioners born before 1951 (men) or 1953 (women) are in line to receive up to £470 extra annually, thanks to the latest increases from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
As part of the government’s Triple Lock guarantee, pension payments have officially risen from April 7, bringing a notable boost to those relying on the State Pension and Pension Credit.
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📈 Basic State Pension Sees Weekly Rise to £176.45
Pensioners receiving the full basic State Pension will see their weekly payments increase from £169.50 to £176.45, adding an extra £6.95 per week—equivalent to around £360 more per year.
This raise applies mainly to:
- Men born before 6 April 1951
- Women born before 6 April 1953
The Triple Lock mechanism, which ensures pensions rise by the highest of inflation, average earnings growth, or 2.5%, remains firmly in place under the current government.
💷 New State Pension Also Rises to £230.25 Per Week
Those who qualify for the new State Pension, typically men and women reaching State Pension age on or after 6 April 2016, will benefit from a larger increase.
- Weekly payments rise from £221.20 to £230.25
- That’s an annual boost of £470.60
🔐 Pension Credit Guarantee Uplift Supports Lowest-Income Pensioners
Pension Credit, a vital lifeline for many on low incomes, has also seen an increase:
- Single pensioners: minimum income rises from £218.15 to £227.10
- Couples: combined minimum income increases from £332.95 to £346.60
This 4.1% increase ensures those most vulnerable continue to receive essential support amid rising living costs.
🗣️ Government Officials Reaffirm Commitment to Pensioners
Liz Kendall, Labour’s Shadow Secretary for Work and Pensions, assured pensioners of continued support:
“Our ironclad commitment to the Triple Lock gives pensioners across the country the certainty and security they need to live a full life in retirement.”
Meanwhile, Pensions Minister Torsten Bell emphasized dignity and fairness:
“We’re improving the lives of millions of pensioners through our £7.84 billion additional funding for the State Pension this year. Those who have worked hard throughout their lives, paying into the system, are owed nothing less.”
And Chancellor Rachel Reeves echoed the sentiment:
“With today’s increase in working-age benefits, and our ironclad commitment to pensioners through the Triple Lock, we are putting money into people’s pockets and delivering our Plan for Change.”
DWP Unveils New Plans to Identify Pensioners Eligible for £4,300 Yearly Income Boost
How to Check Your Updated DWP State Pension Payment Starting in April
New DWP Proposal Could Reduce Sickness Benefits for Millions Are You Impacted?
Pensioners Could Claim Up to £9,960 Extra This Year: How to Unlock DWP Benefits for Maximum Support
Attendance Allowance: How to Claim Up to £434 a Month for Extra Support in Later Life
💡 What This Means for You
If you’re currently receiving the State Pension or Pension Credit—or due to claim soon—these increases mean more money in your pocket starting this month.
✅ Check your eligibility for:
- Full basic or new State Pension
- Pension Credit top-up
- Any additional benefits like Winter Fuel Payment or Council Tax Support
📌 Final Thoughts
This uplift is part of a broader push to tackle pensioner poverty, encourage uptake of underclaimed benefits, and reinforce the value of contributions made by retirees over their working lives.
Whether you’re already receiving payments or approaching retirement, make sure you’re claiming everything you’re entitled to—these updates could make a meaningful difference in your finances this year.