If you receive a state pension in the UK, there are important changes to be aware of in May 2025. Because of two upcoming bank holidays, some pensioners will get their money earlier than usual. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that payments due on bank holidays will be made in advance.
This change ensures no one misses out on their money because banks are closed on these holidays.
Why Are Payment Dates Changing?
There are two bank holidays in May:
- Early May Bank Holiday – Monday, May 5, 2025
- Late May Bank Holiday – Monday, May 26, 2025
On these days, banks are closed, and because of this, the government moves pension and benefit payments forward to the Friday before.
When Will You Get Paid?
If you normally get your state pension on a Monday, your May 2025 payment dates will change as follows:
- Payment for Monday, May 5 will be made on Friday, May 2
- Payment for Monday, May 26 will be made on Friday, May 23
So, you’ll receive your money early, giving you access to your funds before the bank holiday weekends.
How Do You Know If You’re Affected?
Your regular payment day is based on the last two digits of your National Insurance number. If your number ends between 00 to 19, your payment day is Monday. This means you are directly affected by the change and will receive your pension early in May.
Where Does the Money Go?
All payments are made directly into your bank, building society, or credit union account. There’s no change to where the money is paid—only the date is adjusted to make sure you get your funds before the holidays.
How Much Is the State Pension in 2025?
From April 2025, state pensions increased by 4.1%. This means:
- New full state pension pays £230.25 per week
- Old basic state pension pays £176.45 per week
These amounts are for those with a full National Insurance record, usually between 30 to 35 years.
If you get less than around £227 per week, you may be eligible for Pension Credit to boost your income.
If you’re a pensioner who usually receives payments on a Monday, your state pension for May 5 and May 26 will be paid earlier, on the Friday before each bank holiday. This change is automatic, and no action is needed from you. Just remember to plan your finances accordingly for those weeks. If you’re not receiving the full amount, check if you qualify for Pension Credit to top up your weekly payments. For full information, visit GOV.UK and search for state pension and benefit payment dates.
FAQ
Why are state pension payment dates changing in May 2025?
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is adjusting payment dates due to two UK bank holidays in May 2025. When a pension payment falls on a bank holiday, it is paid early, usually on the previous working day.
When will my pension be paid if it falls on a bank holiday?
If your pension was due on Monday, May 5, 2025, you’ll be paid on Friday, May 2. If it was due on Monday, May 26, you’ll receive it on Friday, May 23 instead.
How do I know if my pension is paid on a Monday?
If the last two digits of your National Insurance number are between 00 and 19, your pension payment day is Monday. So, you are likely affected by the May date change.
Do I need to do anything to get my early pension payment?
No action is needed. The DWP will automatically adjust your payment date and make sure the money arrives in your bank account on the correct earlier day.
Has the state pension increased in 2025?
Yes, from April 2025, the state pension increased by 4.1%. The full new state pension is now £230.25 per week, and the full basic state pension is £176.45 per week.
