Benefit recipients in the UK can expect changes to their payment schedules this May, as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced adjustments due to the May Bank Holidays. These changes will affect benefits such as Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and more. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming payment alterations.
Early May Bank Holiday: Payments Brought Forward to May 2
With the Early May Bank Holiday (May Day) falling on Monday, May 5, any benefits due on that day will instead be paid on Friday, May 2. This adjustment will affect a variety of benefits, including:
- Universal Credit payments (those scheduled for May 5)
- Fortnightly payments of Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Four-weekly payments of PIP, Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, Pension Credit, State Pension, and Child Benefit
Impact of the April Uprising on Benefits
The uprating, which came into effect in April, will also be reflected in payments starting from May 2, with the full increase implemented for four-weekly payments due on Monday, May 5. This includes disability benefits, State Pension, and Child Benefit.
Since May 5 is a bank holiday, the full increase will be reflected when the payments are rescheduled and deposited into recipients’ accounts earlier on May 2. However, Universal Credit recipients will see the uprated payments on May 13.
Changes in Universal Credit Payment Dates
Universal Credit payments are typically tied to the same date each month, based on the date the individual first made their claim. These payments are made seven days after a one-month assessment period, which includes evaluation of a claimant’s financial circumstances.
For those whose assessment period spans from April 7 to May 6, the uprated Universal Credit amount will be deposited on May 13. Others will see their payments increase at a later date, likely in late May or June, depending on their assessment periods.
Late May Bank Holiday: Payments Brought Forward to May 23
The Spring Bank Holiday (Late May Bank Holiday) falls on Monday, May 26. Any benefits due on that date will be paid early, on Friday, May 23.
Summary of May Payment Changes
Here’s a summary of the benefit payment date changes for May:
- May 5 (Early May Bank Holiday): Payments will be made on Friday, May 2.
- Includes Universal Credit, PIP, Attendance Allowance, State Pension, and more.
- May 13 (Uprated Universal Credit): Universal Credit payments will reflect the April uprating for those with assessment periods from April 7 to May 6.
- May 26 (Late May Bank Holiday): Payments will be made on Friday, May 23.
Benefit recipients should be aware of the upcoming changes to their payment schedules due to the May Bank Holidays. Payments will be made earlier than usual on May 2 and May 23, and those receiving Universal Credit will see the uprated amount in their accounts by May 13. Keep an eye on your payment dates to ensure you receive your funds on time.
FAQs
When will my Universal Credit be paid in May 2025?
Universal Credit payments due on Monday, May 5, will be paid early on Friday, May 2. The uprated payments will be reflected in payments made on May 13 for those with assessment periods from April 7 to May 6.
Why are benefit payment dates changing in May 2025?
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is adjusting payment schedules due to the May bank holidays. Payments due on those days will be moved to the working day before the holiday.
What other benefits are affected by the early payment dates in May?
In addition to Universal Credit, benefits like State Pension, PIP, Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance, and Carer’s Allowance will also see early payments due to the May 5 and May 26 bank holidays.
When will benefits due on May 26 be paid?
Any benefits due on Monday, May 26 (the Spring Bank Holiday) will be paid early on Friday, May 23.
How will the uprated Universal Credit payments affect me?
The uprated Universal Credit payments will be reflected for those with assessment periods from April 7 to May 6 and will be paid on May 13. Other recipients will see their payments increase later, likely in late May or June.
