Benefit Changes Timetable - Benefit Changes Timetable 2026
Planned changes to the benefits system. This guide is updated every three months.
- Last reviewed 03 June 2025
Benefit changes timetable 2026
Please note that information about some of these changes may be limited at present and also subject to further change. Although some will happen quickly, others may be introduced gradually.
March 2026
All Benefits that are being replaced by Universal Credit. See full definition will end on 31 March 2026. No more payments will be made.
The Scottish Government will introduce the Two Child Limit Payment on 2 March 2026 for families affected by the Two Child Limit. Further information is expected later this year.
April 2026
Social security benefits across the UK will increase.
Introduction of changes to Universal Credit, from April 2026:
- New claimants of Universal Credit who get LCWRA will not get the full £94 per week and instead get £50.
- The Universal Credit standard allowance will increase from £91 per week to £98 per week.
October 2026
The Warm Home Discount Scheme opens for applications in England, Scotland and Wales.
November 2026
Across the UK, eligible pensioners will begin to receive their Winter Fuel Payment.
In Scotland, the Winter Fuel Payment has been replaced by the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, the Cold Weather Payment 2026 scheme opens. In Scotland, the Child Winter Heating Payment will be paid to eligible households.
December 2026
In Scotland, the Winter Heating Payment will be paid to eligible households.
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