Millions of people in the UK who receive benefits and pensions through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can expect changes to their usual payment schedules in May 2025. These changes are due to two bank holidays, and those affected will receive their money earlier than usual.
In addition to revised payment dates, the DWP has confirmed recent benefit rate increases and a forthcoming Cost of Living Payment to support low-income households. Here’s everything you need to know for the month ahead.
Two Bank Holidays Bring Early Payments
May features two UK-wide bank holidays: the Early May Bank Holiday on Monday, 5 May, and the Spring Bank Holiday on Monday, 26 May.
If your usual payment date falls on either of these days, your benefits or pension will be paid early:
Table: Early Payment Dates for May 2025
| Payment Due Date | Revised Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Monday, 5 May 2025 | Friday, 2 May 2025 |
| Monday, 26 May 2025 | Friday, 23 May 2025 |
This change applies to a wide range of benefits, including:
- Universal Credit
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
- Child Benefit
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
Regular State Pension Payment Schedule
For those receiving the State Pension, payments are typically made every four weeks. The exact day of the week depends on the final two digits of your National Insurance (NI) number:
- 00 to 19: Monday
- 20 to 39: Tuesday
- 40 to 59: Wednesday
- 60 to 79: Thursday
- 80 to 99: Friday
If your scheduled payment falls on a bank holiday, you will be paid on the last working day before the holiday.
More information on State Pension payments can be found at: www.gov.uk/state-pension
Benefit and Pension Increases
As of April 2025, most DWP benefits and the State Pension have seen increases in line with inflation and policy commitments.
- Universal Credit and related benefits increased by 1.7%.
- The State Pension rose by 4.1% as part of the government’s triple lock pledge.
These increases will be reflected in May payments for most recipients, particularly those whose assessment periods began before 7 April 2025. For others, the updated amounts may appear in their June payments.
To find specific benefit amounts, visit: www.gov.uk/benefits-calculators
£450 Cost of Living Payment Arriving in May
In response to ongoing cost-of-living pressures, the government will issue a £450 Cost of Living Payment to millions of eligible individuals starting from 6 May 2025.
Those eligible include people receiving the following benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit (in some cases)
This one-off payment will be made automatically and directly into the same bank account where recipients usually receive their benefits. There is no need to apply separately.
The DWP has stated that payments will be staggered over a few weeks to manage processing volumes, so not everyone will receive the money on the same day.
What to Do if Your Payment Is Late
If you are expecting a payment but it doesn’t arrive on the expected day, the DWP advises waiting at least one working day before contacting them, as delays can sometimes occur due to banking issues.
Conclusion
It’s important to plan ahead, especially if you rely on regular benefit or pension payments. With bank holidays shifting payment dates in May, some recipients will get their money earlier — which also means a longer gap until the next instalment. Budgeting accordingly can help avoid financial strain.
If you’re unsure about your payment schedule or need help budgeting your benefits, you can also use services like Citizens Advice (www.citizensadvice.org.uk) or a local welfare support team.