Millions of people who rely on government support across the UK are about to see an important change in their payment dates.
That’s because the Early May Bank Holiday is falling on Monday, May 5, 2025, and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have announced that many payments will now be made earlier than usual.
If you’re expecting any government benefits or tax credits, it’s essential to know when your money is coming in—especially if you’re planning bills, travel, or shopping around those dates.
Why Are Payments Being Made Early?
As Monday, May 5, is a national bank holiday, DWP and HMRC offices will be closed. To avoid any disruption in the payment cycle, the government has confirmed that benefits normally due on May 5 will instead be paid out on Friday, May 2.
This allows people to get their payments before the weekend, as there will be no processing on the holiday Monday.
The DWP said in a public statement:
“On Monday 5 May, offices and phone lines are closed. To make sure people get their payment on a day when our offices are open, arrangements have been made to make some payments early. If the expected payment date is Monday 5 May, then benefits will be paid early on Friday 2 May.”
Who Will Receive Payments Early?
This change will apply only to those whose benefit payment date falls on May 5. If your usual payment date is not on a bank holiday, your benefits will not be affected and will arrive as scheduled.
Here are the key benefits that may be paid early:
- State Pension
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Carer’s Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Employment Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
You don’t need to do anything to receive this early payment. The DWP will handle it automatically and make sure the money arrives in your account by Friday, May 2, 2025.
What About HMRC Payments?
HMRC has also confirmed that some payments will be moved forward for the same reason. If you receive the following, your payment might come early too:
- Child Benefit
- Guardian’s Allowance
Just like DWP, HMRC has stated that payments due on the bank holiday will be delivered on Friday, May 2 instead.
If your payment is not affected by the holiday, it will come at the usual time.
What If My Payment Doesn’t Arrive?
If your payment doesn’t reach your account as expected on the new date, don’t panic. There could be a small delay, especially due to increased volume near the holidays.
The government advises waiting until the end of the day and checking your bank account or app. If you still haven’t received your payment, it’s best to contact HMRC directly at 0345 300 3900.
Keep in mind that when calling, you may be asked to confirm personal details, so it’s smart to keep your National Insurance number and recent payment information nearby to speed things up.
Why This Early Payment Matters?
For many people, especially those living on tight budgets, even a one-day delay can cause serious issues. From paying rent and bills to buying groceries or transport passes, knowing when your payment will arrive helps you plan better.
So while an early payment might seem like a small thing, it gives claimants time to prepare for the weekend and holiday period without financial stress.
Tips for Claimants
To make sure you’re ready for this payment adjustment:
Check Your Payment Date: If it falls on Monday, May 5, your money should come on Friday, May 2.
Monitor Your Bank Account: Set up notifications so you know the moment the money comes in.
Update Your Contact Details: In case there’s a problem, having the correct phone number and address with DWP or HMRC helps.
Call if Needed: Don’t wait too long—if your money doesn’t come by Friday, call the helpline as early as possible.
Where to Find More Info?
The DWP and HMRC both publish official payment calendars and updates on their websites. If you’re ever unsure about your payment status, changes, or dates, always check the GOV.UK site directly to avoid scams or misinformation.
Final Words
The Early May bank holiday may bring a little joy—and an early bank deposit—for millions of UK residents receiving DWP or HMRC benefits. As long as you know your schedule and keep track of your payments, this early payout should run smoothly.
If you or someone you know depends on these benefits, now is the time to check those dates and plan.