Benefit payments are not paid on bank holidays – so for example, Universal Credit payments due on Wednesday, January 1, will be paid a day earlier on Tuesday, December 31
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will pay some benefits including Universal Credit early next week.
Universal Credit payments due on Wednesday, January 1, will be paid a day earlier on Tuesday, December 31. This is because benefits are not paid on bank holidays. Child Benefit payments are paid on Mondays and Tuesdays, and if you’re due a payment on Monday, December 30, then you’ll be paid on Tuesday, December 31.
Other benefit payments, including Tax Credits, that are due on Wednesday, January 1, or Tuesday, January 2, may also be paid early. You’ll receive your payments on Tuesday, December 31. You will be paid in your normal bank account where your benefits are regularly paid.
The amount you’re due to be paid will also remain the same unless your personal circumstances have changed. Minister for Social Security and Disability, Rt Hon Sir Stephen Timms MP, said: “While a time of joy for many, the Christmas period can be overshadowed by financial worry for others, particularly for families on the lowest incomes.
“Our Plan for Change will deliver the long-term economic stability and growth needed to improve every family’s financial security by putting more money in their pockets while we take immediate action to support them with the cost of living.”
What if I don’t get paid?
If you think you haven’t been paid, first make sure you double check your bank account. If you’ve got the right payment date, and the money isn’t there, you should contact the relevant helpline. But keep in mind these are unlikely to be open on bank holidays.
Universal Credit:
Child benefit:
Tax credits:
Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Incapacity Benefit and Employment and Support Allowance: