The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has increased benefit payments for individuals in polygamous marriages, allowing husbands with multiple wives—and wives with multiple husbands—to claim additional financial support. This policy, which is entirely legal under specific circumstances, has sparked debate over its implications.
Benefit Increase Details
From April 2026, people in polygamous marriages received a 4.8% increase in benefits. Those classified as an 'additional spouse' in a polygamous marriage who are above state pension age can now claim an extra £125.25 per week, up from £119.50 in 2025-26. This applies to Pension Credit and Housing Benefit, with no limit on the number of additional spouses claiming in one household.
Legal Framework
While bigamy is illegal in the United Kingdom, polygamy is not prohibited if the marriages were conducted overseas in a country where it is legal. Individuals who legally marry multiple partners abroad can then move to the UK without facing legal repercussions. The DWP's benefits and pension rates document for 2026-27 states: 'If the claimant is a member of a polygamous marriage and all members have attained pensionable age on or after 1 April 2021, the allowance per week is £363.25 for the claimant and the other party. For each additional spouse in the same household, the allowance is £125.25 per week.'
This policy has raised questions about fairness and the use of public funds, but remains within the bounds of current legislation.
