Benefit recipients may experience a shift in their payment dates due to the upcoming bank holidays in May.
This change could impact individuals receiving payments from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), including Universal Credit, Child Benefit, and other forms of financial aid.
Payment Schedule Adjustments for May Bank Holidays
Both the DWP and HMRC typically do not process benefit payments on bank holidays.
As a result, when a payment date coincides with one of these holidays, the payment will generally be processed on the preceding working day. Here’s a breakdown of how the May bank holidays will affect benefit payments:
First May Bank Holiday: Monday, May 5
If your benefit is scheduled for payment on Monday, May 5, you can expect the deposit to be made on Friday, May 2, instead.
Second May Bank Holiday: Monday, May 26
For benefits due on Monday, May 26, the payment will be transferred into your account on Friday, May 23.
Payment Amount and Duration
The amount you receive will remain the same, and it will be deposited into your usual bank account. However, with the shift in dates, you may face a longer waiting period until your next payment.
Therefore, it’s important to plan your finances accordingly during this time.
What to Do if Your Payment Is Late
If you were expecting a benefit payment but it has not yet arrived, you can reach out to the DWP helpline at 0800 328 5644.
Keep in mind that the helpline will be closed on bank holidays. However, you can contact them on the previous working day or the day following the bank holiday.
When Are Benefits Typically Paid?
Here’s an overview of the regular payment schedules for various benefits:
| Benefit | Payment Frequency |
|---|---|
| Attendance Allowance | Every 4 weeks |
| Carer’s Allowance | Weekly in advance or every 4 weeks |
| Child Benefit | Every 4 weeks |
| Disability Living Allowance | Every 4 weeks |
| Employment and Support Allowance | Every 2 weeks |
| Income Support | Every 2 weeks |
| Jobseeker’s Allowance | Every 2 weeks |
| Pension Credit | Every 4 weeks |
| Personal Independence Payment | Every 4 weeks |
| State Pension | Every 4 weeks |
| Tax Credits | Every 4 weeks or weekly |
| Universal Credit | Monthly |
While the May bank holidays may cause slight delays in your benefit payments, it’s important to be aware of the new dates when you should expect your money.
By understanding these changes and planning your finances accordingly, you can avoid any surprises. If you face any issues or your payment is missing, be sure to contact the DWP helpline promptly for assistance.
FAQs
Why are my benefits paid earlier during May bank holidays?
Due to the bank holidays, the DWP and HMRC cannot process payments on the holiday itself. As a result, payments are made on the previous working day.
Will the amount of my benefit change during the May bank holidays?
No, the amount you receive will stay the same. The only change is the payment date, which is adjusted due to the bank holiday schedule.
What should I do if my payment doesn’t arrive on time?
If your payment has not arrived as expected, contact the DWP helpline at 0800 328 5644. Ensure that you reach them on a working day, as the helpline will be closed on bank holidays.