Some fortunate UK state pensioners are set to receive a £921 payment this month, potentially arriving just before Easter.
This increase comes as part of the 4.1% rise in the State Pension starting from April 7, in line with the annual adjustment based on the Average Weekly Earnings index for May to July 2024.
Overview of the Pension Increase
The government has confirmed that over 12 million pensioners will benefit from these new rates. Here’s how the increase impacts the different types of State Pensions:
- New State Pension: Those eligible for the full new State Pension will see an additional £470 annually.
- Basic State Pension: Recipients of the full basic State Pension will get an extra £360 per year.
The two main pension schemes—Basic State Pension and the New State Pension—are based on the individual’s retirement date.
Basic State Pension Details
Men born before April 6, 1951, and women born before April 6, 1953 are eligible for the Basic State Pension. The weekly rate for those receiving the full basic pension has increased from £169.50 to £176.45, providing a £6.95 weekly boost.
This increase means that the basic state pension now amounts to £705.80 per month for those on the full rate.
New State Pension Details
For those born on or after April 6, 1951, for men, and April 6, 1953, for women, they qualify for the New State Pension. The new weekly amount for those on the full rate has increased from £221.20 to £230.25, a rise of £9.05 per week.
This means those on the full New State Pension will now receive £921 per month.
Altered Payment Schedule Due to Easter
As April brings two bank holidays (Good Friday, April 18, and Easter Monday, April 21), the payment schedule for some pensioners will be adjusted.
Those who usually receive their payments on either of these days will get their money earlier than usual, with payments being disbursed on Thursday, April 17.
How to Check Your Payment Date
To determine your usual payment day, you can check the last two digits of your National Insurance number, as this number dictates your regular payment schedule. Here’s how the payment days correspond to National Insurance numbers:
- If your National Insurance number ends with 00-19 or 80-99, your payment typically arrives on a Friday or Monday. In these cases, the payment will be made earlier, specifically on Thursday, April 17.
No Action Required for Pensioners
If your payment date changes due to the bank holidays, there’s no need for action. The funds will be automatically credited to your bank, building society, or credit union account.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) explained, “Benefits are generally paid straight into your bank, building society, or credit union account. If your payment date falls on a weekend or bank holiday, your payment will be made on the working day before.”
The 4.1% increase in the State Pension for April 2025 will provide significant relief to pensioners, particularly those on the New State Pension and the Basic State Pension.
With the adjusted payment schedule around Easter, pensioners will receive their payments earlier, ensuring they can benefit from this increase without delay.
It’s important to remember that payments are automatically deposited into your account, so no further action is required from pensioners during this period.
FAQs
What is the new State Pension payment for April 2025?
The full New State Pension payment has increased to £230.25 per week, which totals £921 per month.
Will my payment be delayed due to Easter?
If your payment is due on Good Friday (April 18) or Easter Monday (April 21), it will be paid on Thursday, April 17.
How can I check my regular payment date?
Your regular payment date is based on the last two digits of your National Insurance number.