The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is distributing early state pension payments of up to £965 to pensioners next week due to the upcoming Bank Holiday. This adjustment ensures that recipients receive their money before the long weekend, as banks and DWP offices will be closed on Monday, May 25.
Payment Schedule Changes
If your payment is scheduled for the May Bank Holiday, the DWP will move it to the preceding Friday, May 22. This early payment applies to all state pensioners whose usual payment date falls on the holiday. To determine your payment date, check the last two digits of your National Insurance number:
- 00 to 19: Typically paid on Mondays, so payments will be brought forward to May 22.
- 20 to 39: Usually paid on Tuesdays.
- 40 to 59: Paid on Wednesdays.
- 60 to 79: Paid on Thursdays.
- 80 to 99: Paid on Fridays.
Payment Amounts
Retirees aged 66 or above who qualify for the full new State Pension will receive the maximum amount of £965.20, comprising four weekly payments of £241.30. This rate increased by 4.8% in April, in line with average earnings, bringing the annual income to approximately £12,547. However, payments may be lower for those with gaps in their National Insurance contributions, as they may not be eligible for the full amount. Pensioners can top up their contributions under DWP rules to increase future payments.
Those on the full basic State Pension will receive a lower amount, with weekly payments of £184.90, up from £176.45 in April. The state pension age is currently 66 but is set to rise to 67 between 2026 and 2028.
