People expecting State Pension or benefit payments from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) around the upcoming Spring bank holiday may see earlier-than-expected deposits due to the temporary closure of public services. Payment dates that fall on Monday, May 26 are likely to be brought forward to Friday, May 23, a pattern observed during previous national holidays.
According to Devon Live, while the DWP has yet to officially confirm the revised schedule, similar adjustments have already been announced by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), reinforcing expectations that many claimants across the United Kingdom will receive their payments earlier than usual.
Changes Expected Due to Spring Bank Holiday on May 26
The Spring bank holiday will be observed nationwide on Monday, May 26. According to reporting by the Daily Record, payments scheduled for that date are expected to arrive early, on Friday, May 23, due to the closure of government offices, helplines and digital services during the holiday.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has already confirmed the adjustment for tax-related benefits. The DWP is expected to follow suit, although no formal confirmation has yet been issued. Claimants are advised to first check whether their payment is actually due on the bank holiday before raising any concerns.
Payments Likely to Be Affected by DWP Changes
Should the Department for Work and Pensions adjust its schedule in line with HMRC, the following benefits would likely be paid early:
- State Pension
- Attendance Allowance
- Employment Support Allowance (ESA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Carer’s Allowance
If your payment date falls on Monday, May 26, it is expected to be issued on Friday, May 23. Those whose payments are not scheduled on the holiday should receive them as usual.
Confirmed Changes From HMRC
HMRC has publicly confirmed that the following payments due on May 26 will now be made on May 23 :
- Guardian’s Allowance
- Child Benefit
The early release ensures that families and individuals do not experience disruption due to service closures over the long weekend.
Broader Impact and Institutional Involvement
The operational need to shift payment dates stems from the unavailability of offices, helplines and online services during the holiday. This measure ensures continuity for millions of recipients and aligns with previous holiday practices.
In addition to DWP and HMRC, Social Security Scotland may also be impacted, particularly in the administration of devolved benefits. Claimants are encouraged to consult official channels from all three institutions for updates.
