Millions of Brits will receive their benefits three days early this month, but there are some important things to note. An expert has given some vital advice
Millions of Brits on benefits such as Universal Credit and PIP will receive their payments three days early this month – but there’s a catch. Experts are cautioning that the early payment could leave many Brits in a bind before the next one arrives.
The August bank holiday is on Monday 25 August, meaning anyone expecting their benefit payment on that day will get it on Friday 22 August instead.
This applies to a wide range of benefits including:.
- Universal Credit
- State Pension
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Carer’s Allowance
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Attendance Allowance
- Pension Credit
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Fiona Peake, Personal Finance Expert at Ocean Finance, explains: “Getting your money on Friday instead of the Monday might feel like a win going into the long weekend, but it means you’ll have three extra days to stretch it.
“That can throw your budget out, especially if you’re living week to week. It’s not always easy to hold back spending when your account’s just been topped up but blowing through your benefit early could leave you short when it really matters.
“Most benefits hit accounts in the early hours, but if yours hasn’t arrived by midday Friday, check your bank again before panicking. If nothing shows up, get on the phone. Don’t wait until after the bank holiday when lines will be jammed. Contact Universal Credit, PIP or your relevant benefits line before 5pm Friday so there’s still time to get help.
“Some people get caught out by thinking they’ll always get their benefits early around a bank holiday. That’s not the case. If your next due date falls on a normal working day, your payment will be back to its usual timing and if you’ve spent early, you might already be playing catch-up.”
5 ways to make your money last
Freeze your card on payday
Fiona says, “It may sound extreme, but if you’ve got a habit of splurging as soon as money lands, hit pause. Most banking apps let you freeze your debit card instantly. It gives you a cooling-off period before impulse buys.”
Treat Friday like Monday
“Don’t think of the early payment as a bonus. It’s not. Treat Friday 22 August like it’s your usual payday and plan your week as normal.”
Check your Direct Debits
“The early payment might not line up with when your bills go out, and that can leave you short just as rent or utilities come calling. Log into your bank now and check your Direct Debit dates. Shifting them by a few days can help you avoid missed payments and overdraft charges.”
Stock up on cupboard staples
“If you’ve got a bit of wiggle room, grab extra essentials like pasta, rice, and tinned goods. That way, if money’s tight in the last few days before your next payment, you’ve got back-up.”
Use the ‘spare change’ trick
“Round up every spend to the nearest pound and stash the difference using an app or savings pot. It might only be a few quid, but it adds up fast and it’s perfect for emergencies.”
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