The Independent

April 2024 dates for benefits and pensions after cost of living payments

Source: PA Archive

As the cost of living crisis persists, millions continue to struggle to pay their bills, afford the essentials or even keep a roof over their heads.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s spring Budget brought some changes aimed to increase household incomes, including a 2p National Insurance tax cut, changes to the Child Benefit, and an extension to the Household Support Fund.

However, some experts have expressed concerns that the chancellor’s new measures unfairly benefit higher earners. The NI cut will benefit those earning £50,000 or more the most, according to the Resolution Foundation think tank.

The government’s latest annual figures on low-income households also paint a bleak picture of the UK’s economic situation. They show absolute poverty

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