Social Security Benefits to Rise in Northern Ireland: What You Need to Know

Starting April 2025, Northern Ireland will see an increase in social security benefits, pensions, and allowances, thanks to the latest Social Security Benefits Up-rating Order. Here's a breakdown of how this will impact you:

Key Highlights:

1. Annual Review and Increase: Each year, the Department for Communities reviews social security benefits to ensure they keep up with the cost of living. This year, they are increasing benefits to align with the rise in living expenses and wages.

2. Consumer Prices Index (CPI) Adjustment: The benefits linked to the general price level, as measured by the CPI from October 2023 to September 2024, will see a 1.7% increase. This applies to many working-age benefits, including:

   • Jobseeker’s Allowance
   • Employment and Support Allowance
   • Income Support
   • Housing Benefit
   • Universal Credit

3. Earnings-Linked Benefits: Benefits tied to earnings growth are set for a 4.1% increase, reflecting the rise in average weekly earnings from May to July 2024. This includes:

   • Basic State Pension
   • New State Pension
   • Pension Credit

4. Triple Lock Commitment: The government has upheld its 'triple lock' promise, ensuring the basic State Pension rises by the highest of earnings growth, price increases, or 2.5%. With earnings growth leading at 4.1%, pensions will see significant boosts:

   • Basic State Pension will rise from £169.50 to £176.45 weekly.
   • The full rate of the new State Pension will increase from £221.20 to £230.25 weekly.

5. Other Benefits: Disability, carer, and family premiums will also see a 1.7% increase. However, Bereavement Support Payment rates will remain unchanged from the previous year.

Financial Impact:

The implementation of these changes is expected to raise the Department's expenditure by approximately £264 million for the financial year 2025/26.

Why It Matters:

This statutory adjustment ensures that benefits maintain their value amidst inflation and wage changes, supporting individuals and families across Northern Ireland during tough economic times.

Parity with Great Britain:

This order aligns with similar measures in Great Britain, reflecting a consistent approach across the UK, ensuring parity in social security benefits.

In conclusion, these updates aim to provide financial stability and support to those reliant on government assistance, ensuring their benefits keep pace with economic changes.