Millions of people receiving Universal Credit and other government benefits will see their payments issued earlier than usual next week. Due to February’s shorter length, those expecting funds on the 29th, 30th, or 31st of the month will receive them on Friday, 28 February instead.
This adjustment follows standard procedure when payment dates fall on non-existent or non-working days. As 1 March falls on a Saturday this year, those due payments on that date will also receive them on 28 February. Understanding these changes is crucial for claimants to avoid confusion and plan their finances accordingly.
Why payments are changing in February
February is the only month that does not always have 29 days, leading to shifts in scheduled government payments. According to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), when a benefit payment is due on a date that does not exist or falls on a weekend, it is automatically rescheduled for the last working day before that date.
For Universal Credit claimants, payments typically occur on the same date each month, based on when their first payment was issued. For example, if a claimant first received their Universal Credit on 30 November, they would usually receive future payments on the 30th of each month.
However, in February, this is not possible, and the payment will be processed on 28 February instead.
Similar adjustments apply to other government benefits, including Child Benefit, Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and State Pension. These payments will also be issued on 28 February if they were originally scheduled for the end of the month.
What claimants need to do
For most claimants, this change will happen automatically, with no need for further action. The DWP advises recipients to check their payment dates in advance by logging into their Universal Credit online account or reviewing past payment schedules.
If a payment does not appear as expected, claimants are encouraged to leave a message in their Universal Credit journal or contact their work coach. The DWP states that delays are uncommon but may occur due to banking processes.
The full list of changes includes:
- Payments due on 29, 30, or 31 February will be issued on 28 February.
- Payments due on 1 or 2 March will also be processed on 28 February, as these fall on a weekend.
For claimants relying on these funds, the earlier payment date means adjusting personal budgets to account for a longer gap before the next scheduled payment in March.
Those concerned about financial management can seek support through local Jobcentres or Citizens Advice.
