Some Benefits Remain Unchanged
In April 2024, millions of households in the UK will experience an increase in their benefits. However, while some payments will rise in line with September's inflation rate of 6.7%, there are others that will remain the same.
Yearly Benefits Increase
Typically, benefits payments increase every year in April, based on the previous September's inflation rate. Last year, benefits rose by 10.1% in line with inflation from September 2022. Next year, many individuals will see a 6.7% increase in their benefits, but certain benefits will remain unchanged.
Benefits That Will Not Change
Alongside the benefits that will be increasing, it is important to note that the benefits cap will also remain unchanged, potentially affecting 85,000 households who could be up to £53 worse off. Here is a list of the benefits that will not be changing in April 2024:
Bereavement Support Payment
If your partner has passed away within the last 21 months, you may be eligible for bereavement support. To receive the full amount, you must claim within three months of your partner's death. There are two rates for this benefit, and the rates will not change from next April.
Child Benefit High Income Tax Charge Threshold
If you or your partner have an income over £50,000 and receive child benefit, you may be required to pay the High Income Benefit Charge. The threshold for this charge will not change from April 2024.
Child Element of Working Tax Credit
If you are struggling with childcare costs, you may be eligible for additional help through the Child Element of Working Tax Credit. However, the amount of Working Tax Credit you can receive has been frozen since 2005/6 and will not change from April 2024.
Family Element of Child Tax Credit
If you are a low-income household struggling to raise a child, you may be eligible for the Family Element of Child Tax Credit. The amount you can receive varies depending on your circumstances, and the Family Element will remain the same from April 2024.
Savings and Universal Credit
The amount of Universal Credit you receive may change depending on your savings. The thresholds for savings will remain the same from April 2024.
Explore Other Benefits You May Be Entitled To
Millions of individuals in the UK are missing out on other benefits they are eligible for, amounting to billions of pounds in total. You can use a benefits calculator to check what additional benefits you may be entitled to. Additionally, successful claims to certain means-tested benefits and Universal Credit can make you eligible for a free £900 cost of living payment. Local authorities also offer support through the Household Support Fund, which provides financial assistance for various expenses. To find out what you can get and how your council will provide the support, contact your local authority.
If you're struggling with energy bills, reach out to your energy supplier as they often offer grants and schemes to help individuals facing financial difficulties.
Lastly, here is a full list of benefits that will be increasing in April 2024.
