Millions of people across the UK who receive State Pension or benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) are set to experience changes to their payment dates next week due to the upcoming Spring Bank Holiday. This change will affect various types of payments, including Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and Child Benefit.
Here’s what claimants need to know to avoid confusion or financial stress over the long weekend.
Why Are Payments Changing?
The Spring Bank Holiday in the UK falls on Monday, 27 May 2024. On bank holidays, government departments and banks are closed, which often leads to changes in regular payment schedules.
To ensure recipients have access to their funds in advance of the holiday, the DWP and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) typically pay benefits earlier than usual.
Who Will Be Affected?
The changes will affect individuals who are due to receive payments on Monday, 27 May 2024. Instead of receiving funds on the Monday, affected claimants will receive their payments on the preceding Friday, 24 May 2024.
This early payment applies to the following benefits:
- State Pension
- Universal Credit
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Pension Credit
- Child Benefit
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
If your payment is not due on 27 May, there will be no change to your usual schedule.
What If You Don’t Receive Your Payment?
Most early payments are processed automatically and appear in accounts in the morning, but delays can occasionally occur. If your payment has not arrived by the end of Friday, 24 May, and you’re expecting it on that date, you should:
- Check your bank account to confirm the transaction hasn’t been made.
- Contact the relevant office for your benefit (DWP or HMRC) as soon as possible.
It’s advisable not to wait until Monday, 27 May, to report any issues since support services may be closed for the bank holiday.
What About Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is usually paid monthly, and payments are scheduled based on the date of your initial claim. If your usual payment date falls on the bank holiday, it will be moved forward to Friday, 24 May.
Importantly, the amount you receive will remain the same despite the earlier date.
Payment Date Summary
| Usual Payment Date | Revised Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Monday, 27 May 2024 | Friday, 24 May 2024 |
This change is automatic, and no action is needed by claimants unless there is a problem with the payment.
How to Prepare Financially
Receiving your payment early can be helpful, but it also means there will be a longer period before your next payment arrives. Here are some quick tips to manage this period:
- Budget carefully: Plan your spending so that your funds last until your next scheduled payment.
- Set reminders: Mark the revised payment date on your calendar.
- Check direct debits: Ensure that early payment won’t cause confusion with automated bills or deductions.
Who to Contact for Support
If you’re concerned or need to speak with someone about your benefits, here are the key helplines:
- Universal Credit helpline: 0800 328 5644
- Pension Service (for State Pension enquiries): 0800 731 0469
- Disability benefits helpline: 0800 121 4433
- HMRC for Child Benefit and Tax Credits: 0300 200 3100
Call centres usually operate Monday to Friday, and are closed on bank holidays.
Future Bank Holiday Payment Changes
This is not a one-off occurrence. Similar changes happen for other UK bank holidays such as:
- Late Summer Bank Holiday (August)
- Christmas Day and Boxing Day
- New Year’s Day
- Easter and May Day holidays
Being aware of these patterns can help benefit recipients plan ahead and avoid surprises.
Stay Updated
The DWP and HMRC regularly update their official guidance to reflect changes in payment dates and eligibility criteria. It’s advisable for claimants to keep an eye on government updates, especially around public holidays, benefit assessments, or policy changes.
Final Thoughts
For anyone receiving State Pension or other DWP and HMRC benefits, the Spring Bank Holiday means an earlier payment date this month. While this is a routine adjustment, staying informed ensures you’re not caught off guard.
The key takeaway: if your benefit payment is due on Monday, 27 May 2024, you’ll receive it on Friday, 24 May 2024 instead.
Planning accordingly can help you manage your finances smoothly over the long weekend.