As May 2025 approaches, benefit recipients across the UK should be aware of changes to payment schedules due to upcoming bank holidays.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC), and Social Security Scotland have released updates on when benefits will be issued, with early payments confirmed for key dates in May.
There are two bank holidays scheduled in May: the Early May Bank Holiday on Monday, May 5, and the Spring Bank Holiday on Monday, May 26.
Because banks and government offices will be closed on these dates, payments that typically fall on these Mondays will be issued early, ensuring that recipients receive their entitlements without delay.
Early May Bank Holiday – Monday, May 5
For those expecting payments on Monday, May 5, DWP, HMRC, and Social Security Scotland have confirmed that funds will be deposited early on Friday, May 2. This adjustment ensures uninterrupted financial support during the long weekend.
The affected DWP benefits include:
- State Pension
- Universal Credit
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Carer’s Allowance
- Pension Credit
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income Support
HMRC will also move payments of:
- Child Benefit
- Guardian’s Allowance
Similarly, Social Security Scotland has confirmed early payments on May 2 for:
- Adult Disability Payment
- Child Disability Payment
- Scottish Child Payment
- Carer Support Payment
- Pension Age Disability Payment
Note: Payments not due on May 5 will be processed as usual.
Additionally, Jobcentres, offices, and DWP phone lines will be closed on Monday, May 5, reopening on Tuesday, May 6.
Spring Bank Holiday – Monday, May 26
The second May bank holiday brings another early payment round. For those expecting funds on Monday, May 26, HMRC and Social Security Scotland have announced that payments will be made on Friday, May 23.
Affected HMRC payments include:
- Child Benefit
- Guardian’s Allowance
Social Security Scotland will issue the following payments early on May 23:
- Adult Disability Payment
- Child Disability Payment
- Scottish Child Payment
- Carer Support Payment
- Pension Age Disability Payment
Unlike the early May holiday, DWP has not yet confirmed its payment changes for the Spring Bank Holiday. However, based on previous practices, similar adjustments are anticipated and an official announcement is expected closer to the date.
It is important to note that Best Start Foods payments will not be impacted by either of the May bank holidays and will be issued as scheduled.
How to Prepare for Early Payments
Benefit recipients are advised to check their bank accounts in advance of the holidays to ensure they are aware of when to expect their funds.
For those whose usual payment date aligns with either May 5 or May 26, funds should arrive three days earlier, aligning with the Friday before the respective bank holiday.
To avoid disruption, individuals should also take note of closure dates for Jobcentres and phone support services and plan any necessary inquiries before or after the holiday.
Benefit recipients should stay informed of early payment dates due to the May 2025 bank holidays. Payments scheduled for May 5 and May 26 will be issued earlier to avoid delays.
Planning ahead ensures uninterrupted financial support for those receiving State Pension, Universal Credit, Child Benefit, and other vital assistance.
FAQs
What if my payment date is not May 5 or May 26?
If the scheduled payment date does not fall on either bank holiday, the payment will be made as usual without any changes.
Will Universal Credit be paid early in May 2025?
Yes, if the regular payment date is Monday, May 5, Universal Credit will be paid early on Friday, May 2.
Are Best Start Foods payments affected by May bank holidays?
No, Best Start Foods payments will not be impacted and will be processed on their normal schedule.