The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that benefit payments due on Monday, August 31, will be paid early on Friday, August 28, ahead of the August Bank Holiday. This applies to all major benefits, including the State Pension, Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment, Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, and Disability Living Allowance.
Why payments are being moved
The Government said the early payment will provide financial certainty for families as they prepare for the new school year, allowing parents and carers to plan their spending with confidence, particularly at a time when the cost of living is high.
Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms said he was "pleased to confirm" the early date. He said: "This will help ensure families and older people receive their money without disruption over the bank holiday period."
Impact on other benefits
He added: "This Government is determined to ensure people up and down the country have the support and breathing room they need, which is why we’ve acted to take money off energy bills, increase the National Minimum Wage and lift half a million children out of poverty, as well as supporting people into good, secure jobs."
The full new UK State Pension is worth a maximum of £241.30 per week, though the exact amount you receive will depend on when you reached retirement age and your National Insurance record.
Child Benefit payment adjustments
This date change will also affect Child Benefits, which amounts to £108.20 every month for the eldest child. HMRC confirmed that payments due over the bank holiday periods will either be delayed by one day, or paid early, depending on where you live.
It is usually paid every four weeks on a Monday or Tuesday. However, when a payment date falls on a bank holiday, HMRC adjusts the schedule to ensure claimants receive their money as close to the usual date as possible.
