If you receive benefits like Universal Credit, PIP, Child Benefit, or the State Pension, you might notice your payments arriving earlier than usual this week. This change is happening because of the early May bank holiday.
Why the Change in Payment Dates?
Monday, May 5, is a bank holiday in the UK. On bank holidays, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) does not process payments. So, if your payment was due on May 5, it will now be paid earlier — on Friday, May 2.
This is done to make sure people still have access to their money ahead of the long weekend, so they can cover bills, buy groceries, or manage any other expenses without delay.
Who Will Be Affected?
People whose regular payment dates fall on Monday, May 5, are the ones affected. This includes those receiving:
- Universal Credit
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Child Benefit
- State Pension
If your payment is not due on May 5, you won’t see any changes. Your money will come as normal on your usual payment day.
What Happens Later in May?
There is another bank holiday coming later in the month — Monday, May 26. Like the early May holiday, payments due on this day will also be brought forward. In this case, money should arrive by Friday, May 23.
Things to Remember
When payments are made early, it’s important to plan carefully. Since you’ll get the money a few days before usual, the gap before your next payment may feel longer. Try to budget wisely so your money lasts until your next regular payment date.
This early payment is not extra money — it’s simply being paid ahead of time.
Bank holidays often affect DWP benefit payments, but these early payments are meant to help you manage your money without delays. Just remember to check your bank account a little earlier than usual and plan your spending so you’re covered until the next payment. If you’re ever unsure, you can check your benefit account online or contact the DWP directly.
FAQs
Why is my DWP payment arriving early in May?
Payments are arriving early because of the May 5 bank holiday. DWP does not process payments on bank holidays, so they pay early.
What date will my benefit payment arrive if it was due on May 5?
If your payment was due on May 5, 2025, it will now arrive earlier on Friday, May 2.
Will I get extra money because of the early payment?
No, the early payment is not extra money. It’s your usual payment just arriving earlier.
Will my payment change again later in May?
Yes, another change is expected for payments due on May 26. Those will likely arrive early on May 23.
Who is affected by these payment changes?
Anyone whose usual DWP payment falls on May 5 or May 26 will be affected, including claimants of Universal Credit, PIP, Child Benefit, and State Pension.
