If you or someone you care for receives Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA), there’s some important news to know. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has just confirmed that both benefits will be going up from April 2025 — and for many, the increase couldn’t come at a better time.
Starting April 7, 2025, the payments will rise by 1.7%. This increase is based on the inflation rate from September 2024, and it’s meant to help people with disabilities and long-term health conditions keep up with the rising cost of living.
What’s Changing in Your Payment
Let’s break it down. If you’re already receiving PIP or DLA, you don’t need to do anything — the new rates will be added to your payments automatically. Here’s what you’ll get starting in April:
New PIP Rates (Per Week):
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Daily Living (Standard): £73.90
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Daily Living (Enhanced): £110.40
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Mobility (Standard): £29.20
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Mobility (Enhanced): £77.05
If you qualify for the highest rates in both components, your weekly payment could be as much as £187.45.
New DLA Rates for Children (Per Week):
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Care Component:
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Lowest: £29.20
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Middle: £73.90
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Highest: £110.40
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Mobility Component:
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Lower: £29.20
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Higher: £77.05
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So again, the maximum weekly DLA payment for a child could also reach £187.45.
Who Can Get PIP or DLA?
If you’re wondering whether you or a family member might qualify for these benefits, here’s a simple overview.
To get PIP, you must be:
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Aged 16 or over (but under State Pension age)
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Struggling with everyday tasks or getting around due to a health condition or disability
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Dealing with these difficulties for at least 3 months, and expect them to last at least 9 more
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Living in the UK for 2 of the last 3 years
DLA is for children under 16 who need extra care or supervision compared to other kids their age. The condition must have lasted at least 3 months and be expected to continue for another 6. Parents or guardians can apply on behalf of their child.
Important: Changes to Your Payment Dates
With Easter falling in April, there will be a slight change to when some people get paid. If your payment is due on Good Friday (April 18) or Easter Monday (April 21), you’ll get it early — on Thursday, April 17. That means you won’t have to wait through the long weekend to receive your money.
How to Apply (Or Check Your Status)
If you’re not receiving PIP or DLA yet but think you might be eligible, here’s how to start:
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For PIP: Call 0800 917 2222 or visit the GOV.UK website.
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For DLA (children only): Call 0800 121 4600 to request a form or apply online.
You’ll need to provide information about how your condition affects daily life — like cooking, washing, walking, or getting around. It helps to include medical evidence, such as doctor’s notes, diagnosis letters, or care assessments.
Tips for Getting the Most from Your Claim
Getting through the benefits system can feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to make it easier:
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Keep a daily diary of how your condition affects your life.
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Be honest about your worst days when filling out forms.
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Ask for help from a local support service if you need it — they can guide you through the paperwork.
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Save any medical records or appointment letters. These are great supporting documents.
A Small Boost, But a Needed One
While a 1.7% increase might not sound huge, for people living with ongoing health challenges and rising bills, every little bit of support matters. The updated rates are a welcome change for many, especially after a difficult year of inflation and uncertainty.
Whether you’re already receiving benefits or considering applying, now’s a good time to check your situation and make sure you’re getting what you’re entitled to.
