Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Secretary Pat McFadden has confirmed that state pensioners will receive an extra £45 per week from May 2026. The full rate of the new State Pension will increase by 4.8%, in line with average earnings growth, rising from £230.25 to £241.30 per week. Additionally, the full basic State Pension will increase from £176.45 to £184.90 per week, representing a weekly rise of £11.05.
Government Commitment to Pensioners
Labour cabinet minister McFadden stated: "I know global shocks and their effects on our living costs will increase anxiety for many households. This government will always protect our pensioners, and that is why we are raising the full rate of new State Pension by up to £575 this coming year."
Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell added: "After a lifetime of work and contribution, people deserve a decent retirement. Raising the State Pensions faster than prices, ensuring it is a pension they can rely on, is how we make that a reality for millions."
Payment Details and Process
After claiming your State Pension, you will receive a letter confirming your payments. The new State Pension is typically paid every four weeks into your account. If you wish to change the account, you must inform the Pension Service. When claiming, you will be asked to choose a start date. Your first payment will arrive no later than five weeks after that date, followed by full payments every four weeks. You may receive a partial payment before your first full payment.
The letter confirming your State Pension payment will outline what to expect. The payment day depends on your National Insurance number. If your normal payment day falls on a bank holiday, you may be paid earlier. Remember, you must actively claim your new State Pension; it is not paid automatically.
