The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that benefit and pension payments will continue as usual in October, ahead of the Autumn Budget on 30 October. Chancellor Rachel Reeves has warned of 'tough decisions' but assured there will be 'no return to austerity'.
Benefits such as Jobseeker's Allowance, Universal Credit, and Pension Credit are typically paid directly into claimants' accounts on scheduled dates. If a payment date falls on a weekend or bank holiday, it will be paid on the previous working day, though this may differ for tax credits and Child Benefit.
As there are no bank holidays in October across the UK, payments should follow the usual schedule. The DWP advises checking award notices and bank accounts if a payment is not received on the expected date, and contacting the relevant department via gov.uk if issues persist.
The basic State Pension is paid every four weeks, with the payment day determined by the last two digits of the claimant's National Insurance number. The full basic State Pension is £169.50 per week, while those born after specific dates may receive the new State Pension instead.
For pension payment problems, claimants can call the Pension Service on 0800 731 0469 or visit gov.uk/contact-pension-service. The DWP continues to process payments as normal until any potential changes announced in the Budget.
