Benefit Changes Timetable - 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 legacy benefits 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In Scotland, the Winter Fuel Payment has been replaced by the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.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.