March 2026 payment dates for benefits and pensions plus cost of living support

"From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging."

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"March can be a difficult month for many, as we await all the changes good and bad that the financial new year promises to bring from 1 April. Inflation went up for the first time in five months in December, increasing from 3.2 to 3.4 per cent. The small rise means the rate remains nearly one per cent higher than the end of 2024, as prices stay persistently high in the face of stagnant incomes."

Coverage spans reproductive rights, climate change and Big Tech, including investigations into Elon Musk's pro‑Trump PAC and a documentary on American women fighting for reproductive rights. Donations fund continued on‑the‑ground reporting and enable journalists to seek both sides of stories. The outlet operates without paywalls and aims to make quality journalism available to everyone funded by those who can afford it. Inflation rose from 3.2% to 3.4% in December and remains nearly one percentage point higher than end‑2024. Persistently high prices and stagnant incomes are pushing millions into debt to afford essentials. Recent analysis found 63% of Brits have cut essentials to handle the cost of living, and 55% of households in poverty include at least one working person. The state pension is expected to rise by 4.8% from next April in line with annual earnings growth.

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