Millions of state pensioners across the UK are set to see their regular payment dates shift in December due to the upcoming bank holidays. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed the schedule changes, which are essential for older people to note for their Christmas budgeting.
Revised Payment Dates for Christmas and New Year
The DWP does not process payments on bank holidays, meaning funds are typically issued on the last working day before the holiday. This year, Christmas Day (Thursday, 25 December) and Boxing Day (Friday, 26 December) both fall as bank holidays.
As a result, anyone whose usual payment date is on Christmas Day or Boxing Day will receive their money 24 hours earlier, on Christmas Eve (Wednesday, 24 December). This ensures pensioners have access to their funds ahead of the festive break.
A similar adjustment will occur for the New Year's Day bank holiday (Thursday, 1 January). Pensioners expecting a payment on that date will instead be paid on New Year's Eve (Wednesday, 31 December).
Who Needs to Take Action?
It is crucial for recipients to be aware that these changes only affect those with payment dates that coincide directly with the bank holidays. Pensioners whose scheduled dates fall outside of December 25, 26, and January 1 will not be impacted and will receive their money as normal.
These alterations also apply to individuals who receive other DWP benefits, such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit. The department emphasises the importance of low-income households planning their budgets carefully around these date changes, especially during the expensive festive period.
Additional Christmas Bonus Payment
In further good news for pensioners, the DWP will also be issuing the annual £10 Christmas Bonus this month. This is a separate, tax-free payment made to those who receive certain benefits, providing a small additional financial boost.
With altered payment schedules and extra bonuses to track, pensioners are advised to monitor their bank accounts closely in the coming weeks to confirm the arrival of their funds and plan their festive spending accordingly.
