Kim
In May 2025, UK residents receiving benefits will experience changes in their payment schedules due to two bank holidays: the Early May Bank Holiday on Monday, 5 May, and the Spring Bank Holiday on Monday, 26 May.
To ensure recipients receive their funds without delay, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has adjusted payment dates accordingly.
Revised Payment Dates
If your usual benefit payment date falls on a bank holiday, you can expect to receive your payment earlier. The revised dates for May 2025 are as follows:
| Original Payment Date | Revised Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Monday, 5 May 2025 | Friday, 2 May 2025 |
| Monday, 26 May 2025 | Friday, 23 May 2025 |
This adjustment applies to various benefits, including:
- Universal Credit
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
- Child Benefit
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
State Pension Payment Schedule
State Pension payments are typically made every four weeks, with the specific day determined by the last two digits of your National Insurance number:
| NI Number Ending | Payment Day |
|---|---|
| 00 to 19 | Monday |
| 20 to 39 | Tuesday |
| 40 to 59 | Wednesday |
| 60 to 79 | Thursday |
| 80 to 99 | Friday |
If your scheduled payment date coincides with a bank holiday, the payment will be made on the last working day before the holiday.
Benefit and Pension Increases
As of April 2025, most DWP benefits and the State Pension have seen increases:
- Universal Credit and related benefits: Increased by 1.7%
- State Pension: Rose by 4.1% in line with the government’s triple lock pledge
These increases will be reflected in May payments for most recipients, particularly those whose assessment periods began before 7 April 2025. For others, the updated amounts may appear in their June payments.
£450 Cost of Living Payment
To assist with ongoing cost-of-living pressures, the government will issue a £450 Cost of Living Payment to eligible individuals starting from 6 May 2025. Eligibility includes recipients of:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit (in some cases)
Planning Ahead
Receiving payments earlier than usual means a longer interval until the next scheduled payment. It’s essential to budget accordingly to ensure financial stability during this extended period.
If you do not receive your expected payment, contact your bank first and then the DWP if necessary.
The early disbursement of benefit payments in May 2025 ensures that recipients have access to their funds without delay due to bank holidays.
By understanding the revised payment dates and planning accordingly, individuals can maintain financial stability during this period. Stay informed and proactive to manage your finances effectively.
FAQs
What should I do if I don’t receive my early payment?
First, check with your bank to ensure there are no issues on their end. If the problem persists, contact the DWP helpline at 0800 328 5644 for assistance.
Will the amount of my benefit payment change due to the early payment?
No, the amount remains the same. The only change is the payment date to accommodate the bank holidays.
How can I find out my exact payment date?
Your payment date is typically determined by your benefit type and National Insurance number. For specific information, refer to your benefit statement or contact the DWP directly.