As the new financial year begins in April 2025, millions of UK residents will see changes in benefit payment dates and increased financial support through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
This guide outlines the latest updates on payment schedules during the Easter Bank Holiday, benefit and pension increases, and additional help available to households navigating rising living costs.
Easter Bank Holiday Payment Date Changes
Easter 2025 falls on Good Friday (18 April) and Easter Monday (21 April). As a result, DWP benefit payments scheduled for these dates will be paid early on Thursday, 17 April.
Affected Payments Include:
- Universal Credit
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
- Child Benefit
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Employment Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
This early payment ensures claimants receive their funds before the long bank holiday weekend.
DWP Benefit Increases from April 2025
April 2025 also marks the annual uprating of benefits and pensions:
| Benefit Type | Increase |
|---|---|
| Working-age benefits | +1.7% (based on inflation) |
| State Pension (Triple Lock) | +4.1% or ~£472/year |
| Minimum Wage | +6.7% (~£1,400/year) |
These increases aim to offset inflation but come amid rising costs for energy, water, and council tax.
Universal Credit & Welfare Reform Changes
While there is a £7 weekly rise in the Universal Credit standard allowance coming in April 2026, major reforms announced by Labour will introduce cuts to the health element of Universal Credit.
- From April 2026, new claimants of the health element will receive £50 per week, down from £97—resulting in a £2,500 yearly loss for some.
- The health element freeze will continue through 2029/30.
Those eligible are encouraged to apply early to secure current rates.
State Pension Payment Dates (Based on NI Number)
Payments are made every four weeks, depending on the last two digits of the recipient’s National Insurance number:
| NI Number Ends In | Payment Day |
|---|---|
| 00 – 19 | Monday |
| 20 – 39 | Tuesday |
| 40 – 59 | Wednesday |
| 60 – 79 | Thursday |
| 80 – 99 | Friday |
Additional Support Available in April 2025
Budgeting Advance Loans
Interest-free loans for Universal Credit recipients:
- £348 (single)
- £464 (couples)
- £812 (with children)
From April, repayment deductions are capped at 15% of the standard allowance (previously 25%).
Charitable Grants
Assistance available for:
- Disabled individuals
- Carers
- Bereaved persons
- Students
- Unemployed
Eligibility varies by charity and circumstances.
Energy Bill Support
Providers like EDF, Octopus, E.ON, and British Gas offer grants or support plans. British Gas, for example, offers up to £2,000 in grants.
Council Tax Reduction
Discounts of up to 100% for eligible individuals based on benefits or hardship. Discretionary reductions are also available through local councils.
Free Childcare Expansion
- Currently: 30 hours for ages 3–4; 15 hours for 2-year-olds
- From Sept 2025: All children under 5 eligible for 30 free hours
- Tax-Free Childcare also available (20% savings, up to £500/year)
Rising Household Costs: Energy Price Cap Update
The Ofgem price cap has risen to £1,849 from £1,738, an increase of 6.4%. This means households will pay roughly £9.25 more monthly for gas and electricity, marking the third consecutive rise.
Mental Health Support Resources
- Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7 support)
- Mind: Support Line (0300 102 1234), Welfare Benefits Line (0300 222 5782)
- Scope Forum: Community support for disabled individuals
- NHS Mental Health Triage: Online mental health guidance
April 2025 marks both financial relief and rising challenges for millions in the UK. While benefits and pensions have increased modestly, higher bills and incoming welfare reforms demand careful planning.
Understanding early payment dates, eligibility for additional support, and how to act now—especially before key reforms take effect—can help households better navigate the year ahead.
FAQs
When will DWP benefits be paid over Easter 2025?
Payments due on 18 or 21 April will be made early on Thursday, 17 April 2025, due to the Easter Bank Holiday.
How much is the State Pension increasing in April 2025?
The State Pension is increasing by 4.1%, in line with the triple lock, adding about £472 annually for recipients.
What help is available for those facing financial hardship?
Support includes budgeting advance loans, charitable grants, energy provider schemes, and council tax reductions. Eligibility depends on individual circumstances.