Millions of people claiming benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) are expected to see another change to their payment dates later this month as the spring bank holiday approaches.
The adjustment follows similar changes earlier in May during the first bank holiday weekend, when many claimants received their money ahead of schedule. Around 24 million people across the UK currently receive some form of DWP-administered support, including State Pension payments.
Benefits likely to be affected include Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Pension Credit, Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, and the State Pension.
Changes
The next payment schedule adjustment is expected to take place ahead of the spring bank holiday on Monday, May 25, 2026.
Although the DWP has not yet formally confirmed the revised dates, previous bank holiday arrangements suggest that payments due on Monday, May 25, will instead be made earlier on Friday, May 22.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is also expected to follow similar arrangements for payments such as Child Benefit.
Bank holiday payment changes are common because banks and government offices are closed during public holidays, which can delay normal processing times.
Pension
State Pension payments are also expected to follow the revised schedule.
The State Pension is paid directly into bank accounts and payment days are usually determined by the final two digits of a claimant’s National Insurance number.
As with other benefits, if a scheduled payment date falls on a bank holiday, the payment is generally made on the last working day beforehand.
For many pensioners and benefit claimants, this means receiving money earlier than normal during the bank holiday period.
Budgeting
While earlier payments may appear helpful at first, they can also create budgeting difficulties for some households.
Because payments arrive sooner, claimants may need to make their money last for a longer period until the next scheduled payment date.
Consumer advisers often recommend planning ahead during bank holiday periods, especially for households relying on fixed monthly income from benefits or pensions.
Anyone expecting a payment that does not arrive on time is advised to first check their bank account and scheduled payment date before contacting the DWP or HMRC.
Support
If a DWP payment has not arrived when expected, claimants can contact the department directly for assistance.
The DWP enquiry line for benefit payment issues is 0800 328 5644.
However, claimants should also be aware that DWP phone lines are usually closed during bank holidays. The department previously warned customers that phone services would not operate during the earlier May bank holiday weekend.
Phone lines are expected to close again on Monday, May 25, before reopening on Tuesday, May 26.
Guidance
Government guidance on Gov.uk explains that substitute bank holidays are introduced when public holidays fall on weekends.
The official guidance states: “If a bank holiday is on a weekend, a substitute weekday becomes a bank holiday, normally the following Monday.”
The guidance also notes that bank holidays may affect the timing of benefit payments.
Alongside DWP benefits, HMRC has already published expected Child Benefit payment schedules for 2026 to reflect bank holiday changes throughout the year.
Parents claiming Child Benefit are advised to check payment dates carefully whenever a bank holiday approaches.
December
This year’s festive bank holiday calendar also includes one notable adjustment linked to Boxing Day.
In 2026, Boxing Day falls on Saturday, December 26. As a result, Monday, December 28, will serve as the substitute bank holiday.
Christmas Day itself falls on Friday, December 25, meaning no additional changes are required for that date.
Although festive payment arrangements have not yet been fully confirmed, similar early payment schedules are typically introduced during Christmas and New Year periods.
Updates
Claimants are generally encouraged to monitor official DWP and Gov.uk announcements before bank holidays to stay informed about any payment schedule adjustments.
Bank holiday changes happen several times each year and can affect millions of households receiving financial support.
For those managing tight budgets, knowing payment dates in advance can help avoid missed bills, unexpected overdrafts, or confusion over delayed transfers.
With another bank holiday approaching, many claimants are now preparing for an earlier payment schedule once again.
FAQs
When is the next DWP payment change?
Payments may change before May 25 bank holiday.
Will benefits be paid earlier?
Most payments are expected on Friday, May 22.
Which benefits are affected?
Universal Credit, PIP, DLA and pensions.
Will DWP phone lines stay open?
No, phone lines close on the bank holiday.
