Benefit rates 2026/27
Three different uprating rules applied in April 2026: 3.8% (September 2025 CPI) for most benefits, an extra legislated top-up taking Universal Credit standard allowances up by around 6.2%, and 4.8% for the state pension under the triple lock's earnings leg.
Checked 7 September 2026 · DWP benefit and pension rates 2026/27
| Claimant group | 2026/27 | 2025/26 |
|---|---|---|
| Single, under 25 | £338.58 | £316.98 |
| Single, 25 or over | £424.90 | £400.14 |
| Couple, both under 25 | £528.34 | £497.55 |
| Couple, one or both 25 or over | £666.97 | £628.10 |
The standard allowance is the base amount before elements for children, childcare, housing, caring and limited capability for work are added, and before any deductions.
| Pension | 2026/27 | 2025/26 |
|---|---|---|
| New state pension (full rate, weekly) | £241.30 | £230.25 |
| Basic state pension (full rate, weekly) | £184.90 | £176.45 |
Why Universal Credit rose more than everything else
The Universal Credit Act 2025 wrote above-inflation standard allowance rises into law for several years. For 2026/27 that meant CPI at 3.8% plus 2.3% on top. PIP, disability benefits and the additional UC elements rose by the plain 3.8%.
Common questions
How much did benefits go up in April 2026?
Most inflation-linked benefits rose 3.8%, matching September 2025 CPI. Universal Credit standard allowances rose further, about 6.2% in total, because the Universal Credit Act 2025 requires above-inflation increases to the standard allowance. The state pension rose 4.8% under the triple lock.
What is the Universal Credit standard allowance for 2026/27?
Monthly rates from April 2026: £338.58 single under 25, £424.90 single 25 or over, £528.34 for couples both under 25, and £666.97 for couples where either is 25 or over. Extra elements for children, housing and disability are added on top.
What is the full state pension in 2026/27?
£241.30 a week for the new state pension (about £12,548 a year) and £184.90 a week for the full basic (old) state pension, from April 2026.
When do the new rates start?
The 2026/27 rates apply from the week of 6 April 2026. Universal Credit assessment periods mean many claimants saw the new amount in May payments.