From April 2025, millions of pensioners across the UK will see their State Pension rise by 4.1%, thanks to the government’s triple lock guarantee. For those receiving the full new State Pension, this means a weekly increase from £221.20 to £230.25, equating to an annual boost of nearly £470.
But how do you check your updated payment amount? What if you’re on the basic State Pension or have gaps in your National Insurance (NI) record? This guide will break down everything you need to know, including how to check your entitlement and where to get official updates.
Key State Pension Changes in 2025
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| New State Pension Weekly Rate | £230.25 (up from £221.20) |
| Annual Increase (Full Payment) | ~£470 |
| Percentage Increase | 4.1% (Triple lock applied) |
| Basic State Pension Weekly Rate | £169.50 (up from £163.75) |
| Effective Date | From April 6, 2025 |
| Triple Lock Explained | Higher of CPI inflation, average earnings growth, or 2.5% |
| How to Check Payment | Use State Pension forecast, NI record, or contact Pension Service |
| Official Source | Gov.uk – State Pension Forecast Tool |
Why Is the State Pension Increasing?
The UK government applies a policy known as the triple lock guarantee, which ensures pensions rise each year by the highest of:
- Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation
- Average wage growth
- 2.5%
In September 2024, average earnings increased by 4.1%, triggering this year’s pension boost.
What Will You Get After the Increase?
Depending on whether you’re on the new or basic State Pension, your payment amount will differ.
Full New State Pension (for those who reached State Pension age after April 6, 2016)
- Old Rate: £221.20 per week
- New Rate (April 2025): £230.25 per week
- Annual Total: ~£11,973
Full Basic State Pension (for those who reached pension age before April 6, 2016)
- Old Rate: £163.75 per week
- New Rate (April 2025): £169.50 per week
- Annual Total: ~£8,814
Note: Not everyone receives the full amount. Your actual pension depends on your National Insurance (NI) contribution record.
How to Check Your New State Pension Payment
You don’t need to wait for a bank statement to see your updated amount. Here’s how to check it step-by-step:
1. Use the State Pension Forecast Tool
The UK government provides a free online tool that shows:
- How much State Pension you’ll receive
- When you’ll reach pension age
- If you can increase your amount
Check your State Pension forecast
2. Check Your National Insurance Record
Your State Pension is built up through NI contributions over your working life. You typically need:
- 35 years of NI contributions for the full new State Pension
- 30 years of NI contributions for the full basic State Pension
Check your NI record to:
- Spot any gaps
- Understand if you qualify for full payments
- See if voluntary contributions could increase your pension
3. Contact the Pension Service
Prefer speaking to someone? You can call the Pension Service for help:
- Phone: 0800 731 0469
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm
They can answer questions like:
- “Why is my payment lower than expected?”
- “Am I due a top-up?”
- “How does deferring affect my amount?”
Why the Triple Lock Matters
The triple lock policy is crucial in keeping pensions in line with rising living costs. Over the years, it has ensured significant increases:
| Year | Increase | Reason Triggered |
| 2022 | 3.1% | CPI inflation |
| 2023 | 10.1% | CPI inflation |
| 2024 | 8.5% | Earnings growth |
| 2025 | 4.1% | Earnings growth |
Without the triple lock, pension rises would likely be smaller and less predictable.
What If Your Payment Looks Incorrect?
If you notice a smaller-than-expected increase or don’t see the new rate by mid-April 2025, you should:
- Check your latest payment letter
- Review your NI record for any gaps
- Call the Pension Service for clarification
- Log into your Personal Tax Account on GOV.UK
In some cases, if errors are found, backdated payments may apply.
FAQs on the 2025 State Pension Increase
When will I receive the new State Pension amount?
The new rate applies from April 6, 2025, and will appear in your usual 4-weekly payment cycle.
Do I need to apply for the increase?
No. The increase happens automatically for all eligible pensioners.
What if I’ve deferred my State Pension?
If you’ve chosen to defer your pension, your payments will increase further once you claim. The 4.1% increase will still apply.
Can I boost my pension with voluntary contributions?
Yes. If you have gaps in your NI record, you may be able to buy Class 3 NI contributions to top up your entitlement.
Where can I get official information?
Visit the GOV.UK State Pension page for accurate updates.
The April 2025 State Pension increase is a welcome financial boost for millions of pensioners. Whether you’re receiving the basic or new State Pension, your payments will rise automatically. By checking your State Pension forecast, reviewing your NI contributions, and contacting the Pension Service if needed, you can ensure you receive the correct amount with ease.