The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is preparing to send important letters to millions of pensioners across the UK. These annual letters inform State Pension recipients about changes to their payments, following the yearly April increase.
Starting from April 2025, the New State Pension will rise by 4.1%, increasing the full weekly rate from £221.20 to £230.25. Over the course of a year, this means pensioners will receive an extra £470, bringing the total annual State Pension to £11,973.
This increase follows the triple lock system, ensuring pensions keep up with inflation, wage growth, or 2.5%—whichever is highest.
Why Are Pensioners Receiving Letters from DWP?
DWP sends these annual State Pension letters to:
- Inform pensioners about their new payment amount after the increase.
- Help pensioners check if they qualify for Pension Credit, which can provide additional financial support.
- Ensure pensioners receive the correct payments and understand their entitlement.
Important: These letters are typically sent in March, before the April 6 increase takes effect.
How Much Will the State Pension Increase in April 2025?
The following new State Pension rates will apply from April 2025:
New State Pension Rates 2024/25 vs. 2025/26
| State Pension Type | 2024/25 Rate (£ per week) | 2025/26 Rate (£ per week) |
|---|---|---|
| Full New State Pension | £221.20 | £230.25 |
| Category A or B Basic Pension | £169.50 | £176.45 |
| Category B (Lower) Pension – Spouse/Civil Partner’s Insurance | £101.55 | £105.70 |
| Category C or D Non-Contributory Pension | £101.55 | £105.70 |
| Maximum Additional Pension (Own + Inherited) | £218.39 | £222.10 |
| Higher Rate Invalidity Allowance | £28.40 | £28.90 |
| Middle Rate Invalidity Allowance | £18.20 | £18.50 |
| Lower Rate Invalidity Allowance | £9.10 | £9.25 |
Note: The Old State Pension (for those who retired before April 6, 2016) will also see increases, but at different rates.
How Can Pensioners Check Their State Pension Amount?
To see how much State Pension you are entitled to, you can:
Use the “Check Your State Pension Forecast” service on GOV.UK.
Check via the HMRC app for an instant estimate of your pension entitlement.
Contact the DWP or your pension provider if you have any concerns.
What If You’re Unsure About Your State Pension?
If you haven’t received your DWP letter or are unsure about your State Pension, you should:
- Check your latest pension forecast online.
- Call the Pension Service at 0800 731 0469 for assistance.
- Apply for Pension Credit if you are on a low income—you could receive extra money on top of your pension.
Will State Pensions Increase Again in the Future?
State Pensions increase each year in line with the triple lock system. This means pensions rise based on:
Inflation
Average wage growth
A guaranteed minimum of 2.5%
This system ensures pensioners receive fair increases to keep up with the cost of living.
The DWP State Pension letters will provide millions of pensioners with updated payment details ahead of the April 2025 increase. The full New State Pension will rise to £230.25 per week, helping retirees manage living costs.
If you haven’t received your letter by April, check your State Pension forecast online or contact the Pension Service.
For more updates, visit the official GOV.UK website.
FAQ’s
When will the State Pension increase take effect?
The State Pension will increase from April 6, 2025, in line with the new tax year.
How much is the full New State Pension in 2025?
The full New State Pension will rise from £221.20 per week to £230.25 per week, amounting to £11,973 per year.
Why do pensioners receive letters from DWP?
DWP sends letters to inform pensioners about their updated pension payments and to help them check eligibility for Pension Credit.
How can I check my State Pension amount?
You can check your State Pension forecast using the online service on GOV.UK or via the HMRC app.
What is the triple lock system for pensions?
The triple lock ensures pensions increase annually by the highest of inflation, wage growth, or 2.5%.
Will the Old State Pension also increase in 2025?
Yes, the Old State Pension rates will also rise. For example, the Category A or B basic pension will increase from £169.50 to £176.45 per week.
What should I do if I don’t receive my DWP letter?
If you haven’t received your pension update letter by April, check your pension forecast online or contact the Pension Service.
Can I increase my State Pension by delaying my claim?
Yes, delaying your claim increases your pension by around 1% for every 9 weeks you defer, or 5.8% per year.
How do I apply for Pension Credit?
You can apply for Pension Credit online at GOV.UK or call the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234.
Where can I get more information about State Pension changes?
Visit the official GOV.UK website or contact the DWP for updates on pension changes.
