Millions of people across the United Kingdom will see their regular benefit payments arrive earlier than usual this week, as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) adjusts its schedule for the Christmas period.
Why Payments Are Being Brought Forward
The change affects a wide range of support, including Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and the State Pension. The DWP does not make payments on bank holidays, which this year fall on Thursday 25 December (Christmas Day) and Friday 26 December (Boxing Day).
Consequently, anyone whose normal payment date is on either of those two days should expect to receive their money on Wednesday 24 December (Christmas Eve) instead. This early payment is automatic, so recipients do not need to take any action.
Managing Your Finances Over The Festive Period
While receiving money early can be helpful for last-minute Christmas preparations, it requires careful budgeting. You will need to make these funds last longer until your next scheduled payment. For instance, if you are paid early on 24 December, your following payment will likely arrive on your usual date in January.
Furthermore, if your usual payment date is Thursday 1 January (New Year's Day, also a bank holiday), you will likely be paid on Wednesday 31 December instead.
What To Do If Your Payment Is Missing
If your benefit does not arrive when expected, even after accounting for the adjusted schedule, you should contact the relevant office. You can reach out online or by phone, or visit your local Jobcentre Plus when it reopens.
It is crucial to note that DWP and HMRC helplines will be closed on the bank holidays. This means you will not be able to get through until services resume on the next working day.
Most benefits are paid by the DWP, though Tax Credits and Child Benefit are handled by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Child Benefit payments, typically made on Mondays or Tuesdays, are not expected to be disrupted by the Christmas holidays.
Below is a guide to the standard payment frequency for some of the most common benefits:
- Attendance Allowance – Usually every four weeks
- Carer’s Allowance – Weekly in advance or every four weeks
- Disability Living Allowance – Usually every four weeks
- Employment and Support Allowance – Usually every two weeks
- Income Support & Jobseeker’s Allowance – Usually every two weeks
- Pension Credit & State Pension – Usually every four weeks
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – Usually every four weeks
- Universal Credit – Every month
