The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that state pension payments will return to their standard schedule throughout February, with no anticipated disruptions due to bank holidays. This marks a return to normalcy following the adjusted payment dates implemented in early January to accommodate the New Year's Day holiday in England.
Regular Payment Schedule Resumes
State pension payments, which are typically issued every four weeks directly into recipients' bank accounts, will follow their usual pattern this month. The specific day an individual receives their payment is determined by the last two digits of their National Insurance (NI) number, a system that ensures consistent scheduling.
How Payment Dates Are Determined
The DWP operates on a clear schedule based on NI number endings:
- NI numbers ending 00 to 19: Payments made on Monday
- NI numbers ending 20 to 39: Payments made on Tuesday
- NI numbers ending 40 to 59: Payments made on Wednesday
- NI numbers ending 60 to 79: Payments made on Thursday
- NI numbers ending 80 to 99: Payments made on Friday
This system mirrors the payment structure used for other DWP benefits, providing uniformity across the department's financial disbursements.
Bank Holiday Adjustments Explained
In January, payment schedules were altered to account for the bank holiday on January 1st, which affected when funds reached accounts. The DWP typically advances payments when the regular date falls on a bank holiday, ensuring pensioners receive their income without delay.
The department states: "You might be paid earlier if your normal payment day is a bank holiday." This policy applies equally to state pension payments and most other benefits administered by the DWP.
Understanding Your State Pension
When claiming your state pension, you'll be asked to select your preferred start date. Your initial payment will arrive within five weeks of this date, followed by regular four-weekly payments thereafter. The DWP notes that some recipients may receive a partial payment before their first full payment, with details provided in their confirmation letter.
The amount you receive depends entirely on your National Insurance record. The full new State Pension rate currently stands at £230.25 per week. Pensioners can check their State Pension forecast to understand their potential entitlement and review their National Insurance contribution history.
This return to the standard February schedule provides certainty for millions of pensioners across the UK who rely on these regular payments for their financial planning and daily living expenses.
