The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced significant changes to benefit payment schedules for the upcoming festive season. Certain claimants will receive their payments earlier than usual due to bank holidays.
DWP Early Christmas Payment Dates: What You Need to Know
Normally, when a payment is due on a bank holiday, the DWP will disburse it on the preceding working day. This year, payments that are scheduled to fall on December 25 and 26 will be processed on Christmas Eve. Similarly, payments due on New Year’s Day will be made on December 31.
Key Dates for Claimants
- Payments scheduled for December 25 will be issued on December 24.
- Payments due on December 26 will also be issued on December 24.
- Payments for New Year’s Day will be paid out on December 31.
This adjustment means claimants should prepare to budget their funds carefully until their next payment cycle, as they will receive funds earlier than expected.
Changes in Northern Ireland
Claimants in Northern Ireland will also see alterations in their payment dates. Notably:
- Tax Credit payments originally scheduled for December 27 will be issued on December 24.
- Child Benefit payments set for December 31 will now be disbursed on December 30.
Benefits Impacted
Several benefits will be affected by these date changes, including:
- State Pension
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Child Benefit
- Disability Living Allowance
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Employment Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Tax Credits
Future Payment Changes
The DWP is expected to announce updated payment rates for State Pensions and various benefits for the financial year 2026/27 ahead of the Autumn Budget on November 26. Additionally, while reforms to the Personal Independence Payment have been delayed pending a comprehensive review, it has been confirmed that this disability benefit will continue to increase in line with inflation for the next financial year.
For over 3.8 million PIP claimants, this increase means the highest awards for daily living and mobility components will rise from £187.45 to £194.55 per week. The new financial year starts on April 6, 2026, at which point all benefits and the State Pension will be adjusted accordingly.
Claimants are encouraged to check the DWP’s official resources to stay informed about their specific payment schedules and eligibility details.
