Millions of benefit claimants may see their August payments brought forward due to the summer bank holiday on Monday 31 August. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) typically processes payments due on bank holidays on the preceding working day, meaning many will receive money earlier than usual.
According to official government guidance, benefits are usually paid directly into bank, building society or credit union accounts. If a payment date falls on a weekend or bank holiday, claimants are typically paid on the working day before, though the guidance notes this may differ for Child Benefit.
Approximately 24 million people across the UK receive DWP-administered benefits, including state pension, accounting for around one in three individuals. The revised schedule affects these payments, with the state pension normally paid every four weeks based on the last two digits of the claimant's National Insurance number.
Because payments will be issued earlier, budgets may need to stretch further. Claimants who do not receive their expected payment are advised to contact the DWP on 0800 328 5644, although the department may be closed during the bank holiday.
