DWP sends letters Who were born in or before 1959: The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is sending letters to all individuals aged 66 and above with updated State Pension payment details ahead of the April 2025 increases. If you were born in or before 1959, you should receive a letter with information about how your payments will change.
Why Pensioners Are Receiving a DWP Letter
Every pensioner over 66 will receive a letter outlining their updated State Pension amount. The DWP advises all recipients to read it carefully to ensure they receive the correct payment.
A recipient on the HMRC community forum shared their experience:
“I received a letter today saying my State Pension will increase by 4.1% from 7th April 2025. I receive my pension weekly. The letter also states that my next payment on 15th April will cover the period from 9th to 15th April. But it doesn’t mention payments for 7th and 8th April.”
There is also some confusion as many assume that the new tax year begins on 6th April, but the pension increase takes effect from 7th April instead.
State Pension Increases for 2024/25
The State Pension rates for 2024/25 will rise by 8.5%, following the triple lock policy.
New State Pension Rates (For Those Who Reached State Pension Age After April 2016)
- Weekly Payment: £221.20 (up from £203.85)
- Four-Weekly Payment: £884.80 (up from £815.40)
Old/Basic State Pension Rates (For Those Who Reached State Pension Age Before April 2016)
- Category A or B (full rate): £169.50 (up from £156.20)
- Four-Weekly Payment: £678.00 (up from £624.80)
- Category B (lower) – Spouse or Civil Partner’s Insurance: £101.55 (up from £93.60)
- Category C or D (non-contributory): £101.55 (up from £93.60)
Other Pension Increases
- Additional Pension Payments: +6.7% (including own plus inherited amounts)
- Basic Pension Increments: +6.7%
- Additional Pension & Graduated Retirement Benefit (GRB): +6.7%
- Inheritable Lump Sum: +6.7%
Invalidity and Incapacity Benefits Increases
- Long-Term Incapacity (Higher Rate): £28.40 (up from £26.60)
- Long-Term Incapacity (Lower Rate): £14.20 (up from £13.30)
- Invalidity Allowance (Transitional for Pensioners):
- Higher Rate: £28.40 (up from £26.60)
- Mid Rate: £18.20 (up from £17.10)
- Lower Rate: £9.10 (up from £8.55)
With the upcoming State Pension increases, it is crucial for all pensioners to check their DWP letters and ensure they understand their updated payments. The new rates will take effect from 7th April 2025, with increases benefiting both the New State Pension and the Old Basic State Pension. If you have any concerns about your payments, it is advisable to contact DWP for clarification.
FAQ’s
Why is the DWP sending letters to pensioners?
The DWP is informing all pensioners aged 66 and over about the updated State Pension payment amounts, which will increase in April 2025.
When will the State Pension increase take effect?
The new State Pension rates will come into effect from 7th April 2025, with increases applied to both the New and Old Basic State Pensions.
How much will the New State Pension increase in 2024/25?
The full New State Pension will rise to £221.20 per week, up from £203.85, resulting in a four-weekly payment of £884.80.
How much will the Old Basic State Pension increase?
For those on the Old Basic State Pension, the full rate will rise to £169.50 per week, up from £156.20, with a four-weekly payment of £678.00.
What should I do if my pension payment seems incorrect?
If you believe your pension amount is incorrect after the April 2025 increase, contact the DWP directly for clarification and assistance.
