The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that state pension payments of up to £740 will be made on Monday as usual, despite a bank holiday in Scotland for the World Cup. Pensioners born before 1953 are eligible for the basic State Pension, which is currently £184.90 per week, equating to roughly £739.60 per month.
Scottish Bank Holiday Confirmed
Monday 15 June 2026 has been officially declared a national bank holiday in Scotland, following a proposal by First Minister John Swinney. The holiday allows Scots to celebrate the national team's opening World Cup match against Haiti. His Majesty King Charles has approved the Royal Proclamation, confirming the bank holiday.
First Minister Swinney expressed gratitude to the King, stating: "Scotland will be on the world stage this summer and I want as many people as possible to be able to celebrate that moment." He added that the holiday aims to bring people together regardless of the match outcome.
Potential English Bank Holiday
The UK Parliament has published a motion to permit a bank holiday in England on Monday 20 July 2026, but only if England wins the World Cup. The motion acknowledges that a victory would be a rare national moment and would strengthen community spirit.
Pensioners in Scotland born before 1960 will receive their payments as scheduled, with no disruption due to the bank holiday.
