The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a significant increase in the basic State Pension for pensioners born before specific dates. Men born before April 6, 1951, and women born before April 6, 1953, will see their basic State Pension rise by 4.8%, effective this month.
This increase raises the full basic State Pension from £176.45 per week to £184.90 per week, equating to an additional £8.45 weekly or approximately £34 extra each month. Importantly, pensioners can continue to claim their State Pension even if they are still working, under current DWP and government regulations.
However, pensioners should be aware that overpayments may need to be repaid if changes in circumstances were not reported promptly, incorrect information was provided, or payments were made in error.
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For those married or in civil partnerships, additional benefits may be available. If you’re not receiving a basic State Pension or the full amount, you could be eligible to receive up to £110.75 per week, depending on your and your partner’s pension status. Eligibility applies if you or your spouse/civil partner reached State Pension age before April 6, 2016, and meet certain National Insurance contribution criteria.
Even if your spouse or civil partner has not claimed their State Pension, or if you have recently been widowed, divorced, or had your civil partnership dissolved, you might still qualify for these increases.
On top of this, any Additional State Pension or Graduated Retirement Benefit you receive from your own National Insurance contributions will be paid in addition to these increases.
For those on low incomes, Pension Credit could provide further financial help, regardless of any savings accrued for retirement. Additionally, individuals with disabilities who receive care support may be eligible for Attendance Allowance.
Typically, the basic State Pension is paid every four weeks directly into a bank account of your choice.