Millions of individuals will be receiving their benefit payments ahead of schedule this week courtesy of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Various benefits such as Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment, and state pension may be affected based on the regular payment dates.
Those anticipating payments on Thursday, Christmas Day, or Boxing Day can expect to receive their funds earlier on Christmas Eve since DWP payments are not processed on bank holidays.
Recipients receiving early payments should budget accordingly to cover the extended period until the next scheduled payment. For those due benefits on Thursday, January 1, the payment will likely be issued on Wednesday, December 31.
In case of any delays in benefit payments, individuals are advised to contact the relevant office either online, by phone, or at the local JobCentre upon reopening.
It’s important to note that helplines will be closed on bank holidays, requiring individuals to wait until the next working day for assistance.
Benefit payments are primarily administered by DWP, except for Tax Credits and Child Benefit managed by HMRC. Child Benefit payments, usually processed on Mondays and Tuesdays, should remain unaffected by Christmas bank holidays.
Below is a compiled list of common benefit payments and their typical payment frequencies.