We know money worries can be stressful, especially when bills are rising or your circumstances change.

You can find below some updates about benefits and help with everyday costs – so you know what support is available and how to access it.

Changes coming in April 2026

The government has announced changes that may mean more money coming in or lower costs for many households. From April 2026, the following will apply:

Universal Credit and benefits

• Universal Credit (UC) standard allowance will increase by 6%
• Other working age benefits will increase by 3.8%
• The two child limit is ending: Families with three or more children could receive an extra payment for each additional child. Support for childcare costs through UC is available for up to £1071.09 per month for one child and up to £1836.16 for two or more children. Check your eligibility on the Gov.uk website.
• If you’re making a new claim for UC and are awarded Limited Capability for Work and Work-related Activity, the amount is reducing from £423.27 per month to £217.26 per month. Some claimants might be exempt from this change. Find more details here.

National Living Wage

• For ages 21 and over – national living wage will increase to £12.71 per hour
• For ages 18–20 – it will increase to £10.85 per hour
• For ages 16–17 and apprentices – it will increase to £8 per hour.

Pensions

• State Pension will rise by 4.8%, increasing weekly payments for pensioners.

Energy and health costs

• From 1 April 2026 to 30 June 2026, the Ofgem energy price cap for a typical dual-fuel household paying by direct debit will fall by 6.7% to £1,641 per year. This is based on a cap on the unit rate of energy used (if you use more, you’ll pay more etc.).
• The government advise the average energy bill for customers will reduce by £150 per year from 1 April 2026 following policy changes to cut the cost of living.
• NHS prescription charges (England) will stay at £9.90 per item.

Learn more on the Citizens Advice website.

Help with energy bills - Warm Home Discount

More households can now receive the £150 Warm Home Discount off your electricity bill. You may be eligible if the person named on the electricity bill receives certain benefits.

To receive the discount automatically, the eligible person should be named on the electricity bill.

Check if you’re eligible on the government website.

Need extra support?

If you’re unsure what help you’re entitled to, or you’re struggling with money or bills, you don’t have to deal with it on your own.

Our Money and Benefits team can help you understand what support is available, check you’re getting everything you’re entitled to and signpost you to further advice and local support.

Contact our team by calling 0800 013 8555 or email us using our online contact form.