Many people in the UK will receive their benefit payments earlier than usual in January 2025 due to upcoming bank holidays. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have adjusted their schedules to ensure payments are processed on time, preventing any financial disruptions.
While receiving payments early can help with holiday expenses, it also means a longer wait until the next scheduled payment. This guide provides details on the revised payment dates, affected benefits, and what to do if your payment doesn’t arrive on time.
Early Payments
Bank holidays impact the processing of benefit payments, as banks and government offices do not operate on these days. In January 2025, the affected bank holidays are:
- Christmas Day – Wednesday, January 25
- Boxing Day – Thursday, January 26
- New Year’s Day – Wednesday, January 1
If your usual payment date falls on one of these days, you will receive your money earlier than scheduled.
Revised Benefit Payment Dates
The table below outlines the changes for those expecting payments on the affected dates:
| Usual Payment Date | Revised Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Wednesday, January 25 | Tuesday, January 24 |
| Thursday, January 26 | Tuesday, January 24 |
| Wednesday, January 1 | Tuesday, January 31 |
If your payment date falls on a normal working day that is not a bank holiday, you will receive your benefits as usual.
Which Benefits Will Be Paid Early?
The following DWP and HMRC benefits could be paid early due to the bank holidays:
- Universal Credit
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Carer’s Allowance
- State Pension
- Child Benefit
- Tax Credits
These benefits usually follow a fixed schedule, but due to the holiday disruptions, early payments are necessary to ensure claimants receive their funds on time.
Managing Your Budget
While receiving payments early can be helpful, it’s essential to plan your budget carefully. Since your next payment will follow its regular schedule, the time between payments may be slightly longer. Consider setting aside funds to cover expenses until your next scheduled payment date.
Haven’t Received Your Payment
If you do not receive your payment on the revised date, follow these steps:
- Check Your Bank Account – Ensure that the payment has not already been deposited. Sometimes, processing delays can cause late deposits.
- Contact Your Benefit Provider – If your payment is missing, reach out to the relevant helpline:
- DWP Helpline – For benefits like Universal Credit, PIP, ESA, and JSA, contact the number listed on your benefit correspondence.
- HMRC Helpline – For Tax Credits or Child Benefits, call HMRC’s support line.
- Allow Extra Processing Time – During the holiday season, delays may occur due to high transaction volumes. If your payment is slightly late, check back after a few hours before contacting support.
The early benefit payment schedule for January 2025 ensures that claimants receive their funds ahead of the bank holidays. While this provides a financial boost before the festive season, careful budgeting is necessary to manage expenses until the next payment.
If you are expecting a payment, take note of your revised date and contact the relevant helpline if you experience any issues. By staying informed, you can avoid unnecessary stress and plan your finances effectively.
FAQs
Why are benefit payments arriving early?
Payments are made early due to bank holidays affecting processing schedules.
Which benefits will be paid early?
Universal Credit, PIP, ESA, JSA, Carer’s Allowance, State Pension, Child Benefit, and Tax Credits.
What if I don’t receive my payment on time?
Check your bank account and contact the DWP or HMRC if your payment is missing.
Will my next payment also be early?
No, your next payment will follow the regular schedule after the holiday adjustments.
How can I contact the DWP or HMRC for payment issues?
Call the helpline listed on your benefits correspondence or visit the government website.
