The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have issued an important update about changes in benefit payment schedules and service availability. This is because of the Early May Bank Holiday on Monday, 5 May 2025. If you receive benefits or have tax-related matters, it’s important to know how this might affect you.
Early Benefit Payments Before the Bank Holiday
Because DWP offices and phone lines will be closed on 5 May, they have made arrangements to ensure people still get their money on time. If you are expecting a benefit payment on Monday, 5 May, your payment will be made early on Friday, 2 May 2025.
This change has been made to avoid delays and make sure no one is left without money during the bank holiday weekend. However, not everyone will be affected. Your payment date depends on your original benefit application and approval dates, so if your usual payment doesn’t fall on 5 May, this change might not apply to you.
What You Should Do
Make sure to check your bank account on Friday, 2 May, if your usual payment date is 5 May. Since the next payment will be on the regular schedule, it’s important to manage your money carefully during this gap.
If your payment does not arrive as expected, you can contact the DWP helpline for help at 0800 328 5644. Just remember, phone lines will be closed on 5 May, so it’s best to call before or after the bank holiday.
Why This Holiday is Special in 2025
The May 5 bank holiday in 2025 also holds national importance. It marks 80 years since the end of World War II. Although there were earlier rumours about a separate public holiday for this event, the government has confirmed that no extra holiday will be added. Instead, commemorative events will take place on the existing Early May Bank Holiday.
Complete List of Bank Holidays in 2025 – England and Wales
Here is the full list of upcoming UK Bank Holidays in 2025 for your planning: <h2>2025 UK Bank Holidays</h2>
1 January (Wednesday) – New Year’s Day
18 April (Friday) – Good Friday
21 April (Monday) – Easter Monday
5 May (Monday) – Early May Bank Holiday
26 May (Monday) – Spring Bank Holiday
25 August (Monday) – Summer Bank Holiday
25 December (Thursday) – Christmas Day
26 December (Friday) – Boxing Day
Bank holidays are meant for rest and remembrance, but they can also affect essential services like benefit payments. That’s why it’s good to stay informed and prepared. If you’re someone receiving benefits from DWP or handling taxes with HMRC, make sure to note the adjusted dates and plan your finances properly. And remember, even though the Early May Bank Holiday will include special events to honour WWII, there won’t be an extra holiday added in 2025.
FAQs
Will DWP pay benefits early due to the May 2025 Bank Holiday?
Yes, if your regular payment date is Monday, 5 May 2025, DWP will pay your benefits early on Friday, 2 May 2025 to avoid delays during the bank holiday.
Will DWP offices and phone lines be open on 5 May 2025?
No, all DWP offices and phone support lines will be closed on Monday, 5 May 2025 for the Early May Bank Holiday.
What should I do if my benefit payment doesn’t arrive?
If your payment does not arrive as expected, contact the DWP helpline at 0800 328 5644 before or after the bank holiday.
Is there an extra bank holiday for WWII 80th anniversary in 2025?
No, the UK government has confirmed there will not be an additional bank holiday. The existing Early May Bank Holiday on 5 May 2025 will be used for commemoration.
What are the confirmed UK bank holidays for 2025?
UK bank holidays for 2025 include 1 January (New Year), 18 April (Good Friday), 21 April (Easter Monday), 5 May, 26 May, 25 August, 25 December (Christmas), and 26 December (Boxing Day).
