The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that benefit payments scheduled for Monday, May 25 will be paid early due to the Spring Bank Holiday. This means that millions of claimants across the UK will receive their money on Friday, May 22 instead.
Which Benefits Are Affected?
The early payment rule applies to a wide range of benefits, including Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Jobseeker's Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Disability Living Allowance, and Attendance Allowance. State Pension payments are also subject to the same schedule change.
Why Are Payments Being Made Early?
The official Labour Party government website states: "Benefits are usually paid straight into your bank, building society or credit union account. If your payment date is on a weekend or a bank holiday you'll usually be paid on the working day before." Since Monday, May 25 is a bank holiday, payments due on that date are moved to the preceding working day, which is Friday, May 22.
State Pension Payment Dates
For State Pension recipients, the day of payment is determined by the last two digits of their National Insurance number. Those with numbers ending 00 to 19 are paid on Mondays, 20 to 39 on Tuesdays, 40 to 59 on Wednesdays, 60 to 79 on Thursdays, and 80 to 99 on Fridays. Pensioners whose usual payment day falls on Monday, May 25 will receive their money on Friday, May 22.
How to Get Paid
Claimants are required to provide bank, building society, or credit union account details when making a claim. Alternative payment arrangements are only available for those who have difficulty opening or managing an account.
Universal Credit Helpline
The Universal Credit helpline is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm, except on public holidays including the Spring Bank Holiday. The contact number is 0800 328 5644.
Repaying Benefits
If you receive benefits or allowances that you feel you do not need, you can repay them. To do so, write to the department that paid the benefit using the address provided on any correspondence you have received from them.
