Millions of people claiming Universal Credit will face a delay before seeing higher payments in their bank accounts, despite benefit rates increasing in April. While the uplift comes into force from April 13, most claimants will not receive the increased amount until June due to how Universal Credit is paid.
The Universal Credit standard allowance, which forms the base amount before deductions or additional elements are applied, will rise above inflation. For a single claimant aged 25 or over, the monthly allowance will increase from £400.14 to £424.90. However, because Universal Credit is paid in arrears, the higher rate will only apply to assessment periods that begin on or after April 13.
An assessment period is the monthly window used to calculate how much Universal Credit someone receives, based on income, savings, and any deductions. Payments are made around a week after the assessment period ends, meaning most people will not notice the increase until their June payment. Almost eight million people across the UK currently claim Universal Credit.
Eligibility for the benefit depends on individual circumstances, including age, household composition, relationship status, income, savings, and in some cases physical or mental health. For those in work, payments are reduced gradually through a taper rate. Universal Credit is reduced by 55p for every £1 earned above any applicable allowance.
Some claimants are entitled to a “work allowance”, which allows them to earn a certain amount before their Universal Credit is reduced. From April, this will rise to £427 a month for those receiving housing support, and £710 a month for those who do not.
Under the new 2026/27 rates, single claimants under 25 will receive £338.58 a month, while couples where both partners are under 25 will receive £528.34. Couples with at least one partner aged 25 or over will receive £666.97.
Additional increases apply to child elements and carer payments, with the carer amount rising to £209.34 a month. Support for people with limited capability for work remains unchanged in some categories, while higher rates apply to those with severe or long-term conditions.
