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New benefit and pension rates for 2011–2012

Published: Thursday, 9 December 2010

New rates for benefits (including pensions) for 2011–2012 were published today. The rates include an increase in the state pension and benefits for people who are of working age.

Increases in state pension and working age benefits

The Basic State Pension will increase by £4.50 to £102.15. Pensioners on a low income will benefit because most people who receive Pension Credit will get a £4.75 increase in guarantee credit. Cold Weather Payments will be permanently increased from £8.50 to £25.

The majority of working age benefits will increase by 3.1 per cent.

The new benefit rates will apply from the week beginning 11 April 2011.

For full details of new benefit rates, follow the link below.

Download the 2011-12 benefit rates (PDF, 52K) Social security benefit rates 2011-12

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Triple guarantee

Minister for Pensions Steve Webb said: "We’ve taken a decision to restore the link with earnings and increase the basic State Pension by the highest of prices, earnings or 2.5 per cent. This triple guarantee will ensure that pensioners can expect a decent offering from the state in retirement."