Starting Monday, April 7, 2025, millions of UK pensioners are receiving a welcome increase in their weekly state pension payments, as part of the government’s commitment to the triple lock policy. This change sees the basic State Pension rise to £176.45 per week, an increase from the previous £169.50.
This update comes as part of the Department for Work and Pensions’ (DWP) annual benefits review and is designed to help retirees keep up with the rising cost of living.
What Is the Triple Lock?
The triple lock is a guarantee that the State Pension will rise every year by the highest of three measures:
- Inflation (CPI)
- Average earnings growth
- 2.5%
For the 2025-26 financial year, the increase has been set at 4.1%, which reflects the CPI inflation rate from the previous September.
New State Pension Payment Rates
Here’s how the new rates break down for UK pensioners:
Basic State Pension (for those who reached State Pension age before April 6, 2016):
- Was: £169.50 per week
- Now: £176.45 per week
- Annual increase: Approximately £360
New State Pension (for those reaching pension age after April 6, 2016):
- Was: £221.20 per week
- Now: £230.25 per week
- Annual increase: Around £470
You can check your exact entitlement through the State Pension forecast tool on GOV.UK.
Who Benefits From This Increase?
This update affects all eligible UK pensioners receiving either the basic or new State Pension. To receive the full amount, individuals must have 35 years of qualifying National Insurance contributions.
If you’ve contributed for fewer years, you’ll receive a reduced amount unless you’re eligible for additional support via Pension Credit.
Pension Credit Also Increases
In addition to the State Pension increase, the government has also raised Pension Credit—a benefit aimed at supporting low-income pensioners.
- Single pensioners: Up from £218.15 to £227.10 per week
- Couples: From £332.95 to £346.60 per week
Those unsure whether they qualify can use the Pension Credit calculator to check eligibility and make an application online.
Why the Change Matters
With inflation, energy bills, and food costs still affecting everyday budgets, this adjustment provides a modest but meaningful boost. The government claims that these changes reflect its commitment to supporting pensioners amid financial pressures.
A spokesperson from the DWP said:
“We remain committed to the triple lock and ensuring that pensioners across the country receive a decent and stable income.”
How to Check Your Payment
To see how much you’re entitled to:
- Visit the official Check State Pension portal.
- Log in with your Government Gateway credentials.
- Use the tool to see your forecast and payment schedule.
Pensions are usually paid every four weeks into a nominated bank or building society account.
Key Dates and Payment Frequency
- Start date: Monday, April 7, 2025
- Payment frequency: Every 4 weeks
- Payments are typically staggered throughout the week based on your National Insurance number.
Final Thoughts
The increase to £176.45 per week for basic State Pension recipients is a meaningful boost, especially for those living on fixed incomes. While it may not resolve all financial concerns, it offers vital support as inflation remains a challenge for many older adults.
To ensure you’re receiving the correct amount, and to explore additional benefits like Housing Benefit, Winter Fuel Payment, or Attendance Allowance, visit the DWP benefits portal at gov.uk/browse/benefits.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
Himanshu Sharma writes for Weekend Spy, focusing on recruitment, government schemes, and current affairs. He is dedicated to making complex information accessible to readers.
Himanshu enjoys playing chess, hiking, and trying new recipes, always seeking ways to combine his love for writing with his passion for exploration. Connect with Drop him an email at [email protected].
