DWP Universal Credit claimants will receive surprise payment this week

DWP has explained it'll be changing the date Universal Credit payments are made as it makes a key change ahead of the late May Bank Holiday
DWP has explained it'll be changing the date Universal Credit payments are made as it makes a key change ahead of the late May Bank Holiday -Credit:No credit


The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that it will be issuing early payments to a significant number of Universal Credit claimants this week. The change in payment dates is due to an important adjustment ahead of the late May Bank Holiday.

If your benefit payment is scheduled for Monday, May 27, you'll likely receive your Universal Credit on Friday, May 24 instead. This is because the DWP does not distribute benefits on bank holidays.

Those receiving the following benefits may also see their payments arrive earlier: Attendance Allowance, Carer's Allowance, Disability Living Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, and Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.

Jobseeker's Allowance, Pension Credit, Personal Independence Payment, State Pension, and Universal Credit are also affected. Other benefits set to be paid early include Child Benefit/Guardian's Allowance, Working Tax Credits, and Child Tax Credits.

Anyone who would normally receive their payment on Monday, May 27, will instead receive it on Friday, May 24. If your usual benefit payment date falls outside of a bank holiday, there will be no changes, reports Birmingham Live. If you are expecting a payment one day before the bank holiday and don't receive it, you should contact the Department for Work and Pensions.

The DWP says on its website that claimants will be asked for their bank, building society or credit union account details when making a claim. They further clarify that payment can only be made in a different way if the claimant has issues opening or managing an account.

Consumer and help groups such as NI Direct advise on their websites that if you are unable to open or manage a bank, building society or credit union account, you should contact the office that pays your benefit to find out alternative ways to receive it.