Benefit changes – what you need to know
Tuesday 06 May 2025

We know there’s a lot of information in the media right now about upcoming benefit changes. While six major changes have been announced, we want to reassure you that nothing will change immediately.
Here’s a summary of what’s been announced:
- Health-related Universal Credit – For new claimants, this was already set to be halved from April 2026, and will now also be frozen in cash terms until 2030.
- Universal Credit Standard Allowance – This will rise to £106 per week instead of the previously planned £107 by 2030.
- Health-related payments for existing claimants – These will also be frozen in cash terms until 2030.
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – A stricter eligibility test will be introduced from November 2026.
- Incapacity Benefits – These will be frozen at £97 per week from April 2026, with a top-up for those with the most severe conditions.
- Incapacity Benefit top-up for Under 22s – This top-up will no longer be available for claimants under the age of 22.
We know these changes may be concerning, but please remember that nothing will change immediately and our team is here to help.
For further guidance, please get in touch with our team on 01639 506623 or visit www.gov.uk for updates.