The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that millions of people receiving benefits and the state pension will be paid earlier than usual in May because of the upcoming bank holidays. The UK has two bank holidays next month: the early May bank holiday on Monday, May 4, and the spring bank holiday on Monday, May 25.
As a result, payments due on those dates will be made on the previous working day instead. This change affects many individuals who are looking forward to an extra-long weekend, but the timing will also impact when money lands in bank accounts. According to Government guidance on GOV.UK, benefits are typically paid directly into bank, building society, or credit union accounts. If a payment date falls on a weekend or bank holiday, recipients are usually paid on the working day before.
Consequently, anyone due to be paid on Monday, May 4, will receive their money on Friday, May 1. Similarly, those expecting payments on Monday, May 25, will instead be paid on Friday, May 22. This adjustment applies to a wide range of support, including Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Disability Living Allowance, and Attendance Allowance. State Pension payments will also be brought forward on the same basis.
Officials emphasize that early payments do not change overall entitlement and will not affect the date of the next instalment. However, this means there may be a slightly longer gap than usual between payments. For individuals on tighter budgets, this gap is important to consider when planning holiday spending.
State pension payment days are determined by the last two digits of a person’s National Insurance number: 00 to 19 are paid on Mondays, 20 to 39 on Tuesdays, 40 to 59 on Wednesdays, 60 to 79 on Thursdays, and 80 to 99 on Fridays.
This update comes shortly after most DWP benefits increased in April. Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and other working-age benefits rose by 3.8% from April 6, while the state pension increased by 4.8% under the triple lock. The full new state pension is now £241.30 a week, with the basic state pension at £184.90. Universal Credit payments also rose, with increases depending on individual circumstances and which elements people receive.
If a payment does not arrive when expected, claimants are advised to first check their bank account and online benefit account before contacting the department. The Universal Credit helpline is available Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm, except on public holidays, at 0800 328 5644.
The DWP states that the adjusted dates are designed to ensure people receive their money in time, even when banks and offices are closed over public holidays.
