Exciting news for millions of UK households! Universal Credit payments are on the rise this April. Thanks to the Universal Credit Act 2025, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will increase payment rates significantly. Currently, 7.5 million people benefit from this support, with an average of 47,000 claims per week.
What’s changing? The standard Universal Credit allowance will see a boost, and there’s great news for parents: the two-child limit is being scrapped. This means that families can now receive extra funds for their third or subsequent children, although the overall benefit cap will still apply.
Here’s a glimpse of what to expect in 2026:
– **Single People**
– Under 25: From £316.98 to £338.58
– 25 or Over: From £400.14 to £424.90
– **Couples**
– Under 25: From £497.55 to £528.34
– 25 or Over: From £628.10 to £666.97
– **Child Amounts**
– First child (born before 6 April 2017): From £339.00 to £351.88
– First child (born after 6 April 2017)/subsequent children: From £292.81 to £303.94
– **Disabled Child Additions**
– Lower rate: From £158.76 to £164.79
– Higher rate: From £495.87 to £514.71
– **Carer Amount**
– From £201.68 to £209.34
Families can also expect changes in childcare costs and housing benefits. Maximum costs for one child will increase to £1,071.09 and for two or more children, to £1,836.16. Stay informed and get ready for these positive changes that could ease some financial pressures and support families across the UK!