The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will shift payment dates for some benefit claimants this Friday, August 28, because of the August bank holiday on Monday, August 31.
According to the DWP, payments are not issued on bank holidays, so they are moved forward to the nearest working day. This means claimants of Universal Credit, Housing Benefit and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) whose usual payment date falls on the bank holiday will receive their money on Friday, August 28 instead.
Households whose payment dates do not coincide with the bank holiday will see no change, and their cash will arrive as usual.
Which benefits are affected
The change applies to Universal Credit, Housing Benefit and ESA, as well as the state pension. The DWP confirmed that all these payments will be brought forward to avoid delays that could leave households struggling to pay bills and cover essential costs.
Claimants who receive their money early should be aware that they will need to budget carefully, as the next payment will not arrive until the following scheduled date, meaning the gap between payments will be slightly longer.
What claimants should do
Households expecting a payment on the bank holiday should check their bank accounts on Friday, August 28. The DWP advises that money is sent out early to prevent any disruption, but recipients should plan for the extended period until the subsequent payment.
No action is required from claimants; the change is automatic. Those with questions about their specific payment date can contact the DWP or check their online account for details.
