British bank notes with pound coins on top

Universal Credit changes: will my benefits increase in 2022?

The Department for Work & Pensions have announced that Universal Credit and other benefits will rise by 3.1% from April 2022.

This follows on from the recent announcement in the Government’s autumn budget that the taper rate, the amount that a person’s Universal Credit is reduced by as they earn more, has dropped from 65% to 55%.

Work allowances, the amount eligible claimants can earn before their Universal Credit is reduced, have also increased by £500 per year.

The changes will mean that people can keep more of what they earn. Almost two million of the lowest paid working families will be better off each year by an average of £1,000.

What will the new rates of Universal Credit be from 11 April 2022?

Standard allowance
Single

  • Single under 25: £265.31 (up from £257.33)
  • Single 25 or over: £334.91 (up from £324.84)

Couple

  • Joint claimants both under 25: £416.45 (up from £403.93)
  • Joint claimants, one or both 25 or over: £525.72 (up from £509.91)

Child amounts

  • First child (born prior to 6 April 2017): £290.00 (up from £282.60)
  • First child (born on or after 6 April 2017) or second child and subsequent child (where an exception or transitional provision applies): £244.58 (up from £237.08)

Disabled child additions

  • Lower rate: £132.89 (up from £128.89)
  • Higher rate: £414.88 (up from 402.41)

Limited capability for work

  • Limited Capability for Work: £132.89 (up from 128.89)
  • Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity: £354.28 (up from £343.63)

Carer amount

  • £168.81 (up from £163.73)

The full list of benefit and pension rates for 2022/2023 can be found on the Government’s website.

Looking for work and confused about benefit changes? Check if you’re eligible for employment support from Work Well.