The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to send out a £230 payment to state pensioners on Tuesday, May 6—but only if they have a specific two-digit code. This payment follows the recent increase in State Pensions for the 2025/26 tax year, which saw both the basic and new State Pensions uplifted by 4.1%, in line with average wage growth.
How the State Pension Rise Is Determined
Each year, the amount of State Pension paid is determined by one of three factors:
- Average wage growth between May and July of the previous year.
- Consumer price index (CPI) measure of inflation, calculated for September in the previous year.
- A minimum rise of 2.5%.
The highest of these three factors dictates the increase for the coming tax year. This year, the rise was 4.1%, in line with average wage growth. For recipients of the new State Pension, this means an increase of £470 annually, while those on the basic State Pension will receive an additional £360 annually if they qualify for the full amount.
What You Need to Know About the Payment
State Pension payments are typically made every four weeks, and pensioners choose their payment date when they first claim. However, for those who are due to receive the next payment of £230 on May 6, the specific two-digit code from their National Insurance (NI) number will determine whether they will get this payment.
Determining Your Payment Date
Pensioners can check when they will receive their State Pension by looking at the last two digits of their National Insurance number. This is the key to when payments are made:
- Those with National Insurance numbers ending in 20-39 typically have their payment made on Tuesday.
DWP Guidelines for Payments
The DWP states that recipients will be asked to choose a start date when they first apply for their State Pension. Once chosen, the first payment will arrive no later than five weeks after that date, and full payments will be made every four weeks thereafter.
The letter confirming the payment will detail what to expect, including any partial payments that might be received before the first full one.
Important Note: If the regular payment day falls on a bank holiday, pensioners may receive their payment earlier.
The Two State Pension Schemes
There are two schemes under the State Pension system in the UK:
- Basic State Pension: For those who retired before April 6, 2016. The full weekly payment is £176.45.
- New State Pension: For those who retired after April 6, 2016. The full weekly payment for this group is £230.25.
In addition to these weekly payments, those receiving the new State Pension will see the annual £470 increase plus the £360 additional payment if they are eligible for the full rate.
Looking Ahead: The Path to Receiving Your Payment
To ensure you get your payment on time, it’s essential to know your National Insurance number’s last two digits and the typical payment date tied to that number. If your payment day falls on a holiday or bank holiday, the DWP will adjust accordingly to ensure timely delivery.
With the £230 payment arriving for some state pensioners on May 6, it’s a good time to check your National Insurance number’s final two digits to ensure you know when your payment will come through. If you have a two-digit code of 20-39, be prepared for your payment on Tuesday.
The rise in pensions this year is just another way the government is helping state pensioners cope with inflation and the cost of living. As pensioners continue to receive their benefits, understanding how the system works and knowing when to expect payments can make all the difference in managing finances effectively.
FAQs
When will I receive my £230 state pension payment?
If your National Insurance number ends in the digits 20-39, your payment will be made on Tuesday, May 6.
How is the amount of State Pension determined?
The amount is based on the highest of three factors: average wage growth, inflation, and a minimum rise of 2.5%.
What happens if my payment falls on a bank holiday?
If your payment date falls on a bank holiday, you will receive your payment earlier.
Can I choose my payment date?
Yes, you select your payment date when you first apply for your State Pension. Payments are then made every four weeks.
How much has the State Pension risen this year?
This year, State Pensions increased by 4.1%, which means an annual increase of £470 for new State Pension recipients and £360 for those on the basic State Pension.
