Millions of households will receive their benefit payments earlier than usual this week because of the upcoming August bank holiday. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that payments normally due on Monday, August 31 will instead arrive on Friday, August 28.
Which benefits are affected?
The change will affect people receiving a number of major benefits, including Universal Credit and the State Pension, and is designed to make sure claimants are not left waiting for their money because of the bank holiday.
Payments affected include:
- Universal Credit
- State Pension
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
People affected do not need to take any action, with the money expected to arrive automatically on the earlier date. The change comes just before the start of the new school year, when many families may be facing additional costs for uniforms, supplies and other essentials.
Government response
Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms said: “We’re pleased to confirm that benefit payments due on the August bank holiday will be paid earlier. This will help ensure families and older people receive their money without disruption over the bank holiday period.
"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 Government said the early payments form part of wider efforts to ease pressure on household finances. Other measures highlighted include expanding free school meals to children in households claiming Universal Credit, rolling out free breakfast clubs and increasing childcare support.
Additional support measures
Ministers have also pointed to plans to take £150 off energy bills, increase the National Living Wage and introduce a £1billion Crisis and Resilience Fund aimed at helping families facing financial difficulties. The DWP is also expanding employment support for sick and disabled people, backed by £3.5billion by the end of Parliament.
Anyone whose benefit payment is not normally due on Monday, August 31 should receive their money on their usual payment date.
