Kim
As of May 2025, millions of pensioners in the UK are finally set to feel the full impact of a £920 boost to their State Pension.
This comes after a significant uplift was introduced in April, but due to the way payments are scheduled, many recipients will only now receive the updated amount in full.
If you’re a retiree or nearing retirement, understanding whether you qualify for this income increase is essential—especially during a time of rising living costs.
What Is the State Pension Increase for 2025?
On April 6, 2025, the full new State Pension increased from £11,502 to £11,976 per year. This is a £474 annual increase, or approximately £39.50 extra per month, bringing real relief to those depending on their pension as their primary source of income.
In weekly terms, the payment increased from £221.20 to £230.31, and for those receiving monthly payments, it has gone from £884.80 to £921.24.
When Will You Receive the Boost?
Because the State Pension is paid in arrears, those who are paid monthly will start seeing the full increased amount from May 12, 2025. If you’re paid weekly or fortnightly, you may have already seen the new rates reflected in your previous payments.
Your actual payment day depends on the last two digits of your National Insurance (NI) number:
| NI Number Ending | Payment Day |
|---|---|
| 00 to 19 | Monday |
| 20 to 39 | Tuesday |
| 40 to 59 | Wednesday |
| 60 to 79 | Thursday |
| 80 to 99 | Friday |
So while some recipients will enjoy their increased income from May 12, others may have to wait up to three more weeks based on their payment schedule.
Why Did the Pension Increase?
The State Pension increase was driven by the triple lock system, which ensures pensions rise each year by the highest of:
- 2.5%
- Inflation (based on the September CPI)
- Average wage growth (from May to July the previous year)
For 2025, the highest of these was wage growth, recorded at 4.1%, which dictated the State Pension boost.
Who Is Eligible for the Full New State Pension?
To receive the maximum State Pension, you must have:
- At least 35 qualifying years of National Insurance (NI) contributions or credits
- A minimum of 10 years on your NI record to receive anything at all
Those born after April 6, 1951 (men) or April 6, 1953 (women) qualify for the new State Pension.
If you’re on the old basic State Pension, you typically need 30 qualifying years of NI contributions. Some recipients may receive more than the base amount through additional pension entitlements.
Can You Top Up Your Contributions?
Yes. If you have gaps in your NI record, you may be eligible to pay voluntary contributions to increase your future pension payments.
- Cost per week: Around £17.45 (depending on the year being topped up)
- Deadline: For contributions covering years back to 2006, you must pay by April 5, 2025
Before paying voluntarily, it’s worth checking if you qualify for free NI credits, especially if you were unemployed, a caregiver, or raising children.
Key State Pension Figures – 2025 Update
| Category | Amount/Details |
|---|---|
| Full New State Pension (Yearly) | £11,976 |
| Full New State Pension (Weekly) | £230.31 |
| Old Basic State Pension (Weekly) | £176.45 (varies with extras) |
| State Pension Rise % (2025) | 4.1% |
| Increase Per Year | £474 |
| Monthly Increase | £36.44 |
| First Full Monthly Payment Date | May 12, 2025 |
| Minimum NI Years for Any Pension | 10 years |
| NI Years for Full New Pension | 35 years |
| Voluntary Contribution Deadline | April 5, 2025 |
Why This Boost Matters More Than Ever
This £920 increase couldn’t come at a better time. Many pensioners are still grappling with the rising cost of living, and the recent cut to the Winter Fuel Payment—now tied to Pension Credit eligibility—meant that some retirees lost up to £300 last winter.
This new State Pension uplift helps bridge that gap and offers a buffer to cover everyday expenses.
How to Check Your Eligibility
To confirm your State Pension amount or verify your NI contribution record, you can use online tools provided by the government. All you need is your Government Gateway login to:
- View your contribution history
- Identify any gaps
- Learn how much State Pension you’re on track to receive
The £920 State Pension boost in 2025 is a welcome financial relief for retirees across the UK. With clear eligibility criteria and the ability to increase your payments through voluntary NI contributions, this uplift reinforces the importance of understanding your State Pension entitlements.
As millions prepare to see the full amount hit their accounts starting May 12, it’s a good time to ensure you’re getting every penny you’re entitled to.
FAQs
Will I get the new payment if I just started receiving the State Pension?
Yes, if your pension started after April 6, 2025, you will receive payments at the updated rate, depending on your NI record.
Can I still increase my pension if I’ve already retired?
Yes, if you have gaps in your NI record, you can make voluntary contributions to improve your weekly payment, even post-retirement.
How do I find out what day my pension is paid?
Your NI number’s last two digits determine your payment day. For example, numbers ending in 00 to 19 are paid on Mondays.