Millions of pensioners are set to see a change in their state pension payment dates next month. As reported by GBNews, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that payments due on April 18 and April 21 will now be made a day earlier, on Thursday, April 17.
This adjustment is due to the Easter holiday, ensuring that claimants receive their payments before the long weekend. The change affects a variety of benefits, including state pensions and others.
Early Payment Adjustment
This adjustment is not limited to state pensioners alone. Other benefit recipients, including those receiving child benefits, disability living allowance, carer’s allowance, and personal independence payment (PIP), will also see their payments arrive earlier than originally scheduled.
The DWP has assured claimants that no action will be required from them. The changes will be implemented automatically, and payments will continue to be deposited directly into the recipients’ bank accounts.
However, with the early payment, claimants will need to manage their funds carefully. Since payments will revert to their normal dates after the holiday period, recipients may find themselves having to make their money last a bit longer than usual.
This could cause some financial strain for those who rely on the regularity of their payment dates. The DWP encourages those receiving benefits to check their award notices to ensure they are aware of the updated payment dates.
If payments are delayed beyond the new date, claimants should first contact their bank before reaching out to the DWP for assistance. This proactive approach is recommended to avoid any confusion.
Further Changes Expected in May
In addition to the changes in April, May will also bring adjustments to payment dates. The early May bank holiday, which falls on May 5, as well as another bank holiday on May 26, will cause additional shifts to the regular payment schedule.
Pensioners and other benefit claimants can expect to receive their payments earlier during these periods, similar to the arrangements made for April.
It’s important for recipients to stay informed about the dates of these changes to ensure they can plan their finances accordingly.
The DWP will issue further notices to inform claimants of specific changes as they approach.
State Pension Increase in April 2025
The changes in payment dates come alongside a significant increase in the state pension starting in April 2025. The new state pension will rise from £221.20 to £230.30 per week, providing an additional £9.10 weekly for pensioners.
Similarly, those receiving the basic state pension will see an increase from £169.50 to £176.45 per week. These increases represent a major financial benefit for pensioners.
Over the course of the year, the new state pension will provide nearly £500 more annually, with the total amount rising from £11,541.90 to £12,016.75.
The increase is part of the government’s triple lock guarantee, which ensures that state pensions rise each year based on either inflation, wage growth, or a minimum of 2.5% — whichever is highest.
This triple lock promise was introduced to ensure that pensioners’ incomes remain protected against the rising cost of living. The guarantee is reviewed annually and guarantees that the state pension will not lose value, even in challenging economic times.
The increase in pension payments is especially welcome for pensioners who have faced the pressures of rising living costs. With inflation affecting prices across the board, this boost in income will help pensioners maintain their financial stability.
What Recipients Need to Know
Recipients of the state pension and other benefits do not need to take any action themselves to receive the early payments. These adjustments will be made automatically by the DWP.
Claimants should make sure to monitor their accounts to ensure payments are received on the correct dates. If there are any delays or discrepancies, they should check the date on their award notice and contact their bank first.
