Millions of people across the UK rely on regular payments from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to support their daily lives. With two bank holidays scheduled for May 2025, recipients of State Pension, Universal Credit, and other key benefits should be aware of changes to their payment dates.
In this article, we outline everything you need to know, including when to expect your money and what to do if there is a delay.
When Are the Bank Holidays in May 2025?
The two upcoming bank holidays are:
- Early May Bank Holiday: Monday, 5 May 2025
- Spring Bank Holiday: Monday, 26 May 2025
Since banks and government offices will be closed on these dates, DWP and HMRC will issue payments earlier than usual.
How Will the Payment Dates Change?
Early May Bank Holiday – Monday, 5 May 2025
If you are due to receive a payment on Monday, 5 May 2025, you will be paid early on Friday, 2 May 2025.
This change applies to a wide range of DWP benefits, including:
- State Pension
- Universal Credit
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income Support
- Carer’s Allowance
- Attendance Allowance
- Pension Credit
For those receiving HMRC-managed benefits, such as:
- Child Benefit
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Guardian’s Allowance
the same early payment rule will apply.
This adjustment ensures that no one misses out due to the closure of banks and public offices on the bank holiday.
Spring Bank Holiday – Monday, 26 May 2025
Similarly, payments due on Monday, 26 May 2025, will be made earlier, on Friday, 23 May 2025.
The same list of benefits from DWP and HMRC will be impacted by this change.
Why Are Payment Dates Changed?
Typically, DWP and HMRC payments are processed on working days. When a due date falls on a weekend or a bank holiday, the payment is moved to the previous working day. This system ensures that recipients are not left waiting for essential funds.
While the date changes, the amount paid and how payments are made remain the same. Most payments are deposited directly into the recipient’s designated bank, building society, or credit union account.
How to Check If Your Payment Is Affected
If your usual payment date falls on either 5 May or 26 May 2025, your money will be issued earlier, as explained above. However, if your payment date does not coincide with a bank holiday, it will be made as normal.
You can verify your specific benefit payment dates through the following official government resources:
It is a good idea to check your personal account via your DWP or HMRC portal if you are unsure.
What to Do If You Don’t Receive Your Payment
Payments typically arrive shortly after midnight on the scheduled day, although the exact time may vary depending on your bank. If your payment is not in your account as expected, take the following steps:
- Double-check your bank account and online statements first.
- Wait until after midday on the expected payment day, as some banks process payments later in the morning.
- Contact the relevant authority:
- For DWP payments (such as State Pension, PIP, or Universal Credit), call the helpline listed on your award letter or visit DWP Contact Information.
- For HMRC payments (such as Child Benefit or Tax Credits), visit HMRC Contact Information.
Be prepared to verify your identity when you call, including your National Insurance number and details about your claim.
Final Thought
Planning ahead for the May 2025 bank holidays is essential. Knowing that your benefit or pension payment will arrive earlier can help you manage bills, groceries, and other financial responsibilities without disruption.
If you’re concerned about how early payments might affect budgeting for the rest of the month, it might be helpful to set aside funds accordingly.