Millions of people receiving state pensions and Universal Credit will face delays in getting their increased payments despite rates rising this week.
State pension and benefit payments increased by 4.1 per cent and 1.7 per cent respectively on April 7.
However, many recipients won't see this boost in their accounts until May.
The delay affects both those on state pension recipients and Universal Credit, leaving millions waiting longer for their payment increases.
Some Universal Credit claimants may have to wait until June to receive their increased payments
GETTYFor state pension recipients, payment dates determine when they'll see the increase.
Those who usually receive their pension on or before the eighth of each month won't get the increased rate until May.
For example, if your regular payment date is the sixth of the month, you'll need to wait until May 6 to see the higher amount.
Universal Credit claimants face delays because payments depend on their assessment periods.
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This comes despite the official rate changes having already taken effect yesterday.
The delay is due to how these benefits are typically paid in arrears.
Those whose assessment periods began before April 7 will see their benefits rise in May.
However, claimants whose assessment period started after this date won't receive the increased 2025/26 rate until June.
This system of arrears payments and assessment periods creates the gap between official rate increases and when people actually receive them.
The state pension has risen by 4.1 per cent under the "triple lock" system, which applies the highest of wage growth, 2.5 per cent, or the previous September's inflation figures.
The full new state pension has increased from £221.20 to £230.25 per week.
For the basic part of the old state pension, the rate has risen from £169.50 to £176.45.
The state pension has risen by 4.1 per cent under the 'triple lock' system, which applies the highest of wage growth, 2.5 per cent, or the previous September's inflation figures
PAAdditional State Pension amounts and deferred pension payments don't increase under the triple lock.
The new Universal Credit rates have increased by 1.7 per cent for the 2025/26 financial year.
This benefit supports those not currently working or tops up income for low earners.
Universal Credit claimants caring for a severely disabled person for at least 35 hours weekly can receive an additional amount.
