The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) are responsible for distributing payments to over 20 million people across the UK.
These payments, covering Universal Credit, State Pension, Tax Credits, and other benefits, are essential for managing everyday costs like housing, childcare, and personal care.
However, in August 2025, the bank holidays may cause temporary changes in payment schedules. It’s crucial that beneficiaries check their payment dates in advance to avoid financial disruptions.
Bank Holiday Impact in August 2025
There are two major bank holidays in August that will impact when your benefit arrives:
Region | Bank Holiday | Adjusted Payment Date |
---|---|---|
England & Wales | Monday, 25 August 2025 | Friday, 22 August 2025 |
Scotland | Monday, 4 August 2025 | Tuesday, 5 August 2025 |
If your scheduled payment falls on one of these dates, you will likely receive it early, on the preceding working day.
Payment Frequency for Common Benefits
Here’s a quick look at how often various DWP and HMRC benefits are typically paid:
Benefit Type | Payment Frequency |
---|---|
Universal Credit | Monthly |
State Pension | Every 4 weeks |
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) | Every 4 weeks |
Attendance Allowance | Every 4 weeks |
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) | Every 4 weeks |
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) | Every 2 weeks |
Income Support | Every 2 weeks |
Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) | Every 2 weeks |
Carer’s Allowance | Weekly or every 4 weeks |
Child Benefit | Every 4 weeks or weekly (for single parents) |
Pension Credit | Every 4 weeks |
Tax Credits | Every 4 weeks or weekly |
If your scheduled payment clashes with a bank holiday, expect an advance deposit. Always check with DWP or HMRC to confirm if you’re uncertain.
How State Pension Payment Dates Are Decided
State Pension payments depend on the last two digits of your National Insurance (NI) number, and are issued every four weeks as follows:
NI Number Ending | Payment Day |
---|---|
00 to 19 | Monday |
20 to 39 | Tuesday |
40 to 59 | Wednesday |
60 to 79 | Thursday |
80 to 99 | Friday |
If the payment date lands on a bank holiday, you will typically be paid on the last working day before.
What to Do If You Don’t Receive Your Payment
If you haven’t received your benefit or pension on the expected date:
- Wait until the next working day (most helplines close on bank holidays)
- Check your bank account for pending transactions
- Contact the correct department using the numbers below:
Service | Contact Number |
---|---|
Universal Credit | 0800 328 9344 |
Child Benefit | 0300 200 3100 |
Tax Credits | 0345 300 3900 |
ESA / JSA / Income Support | 0800 169 0310 |
Textphone Support | 0800 169 0314 / 18001 then 0800 169 0310 |
Important Tips to Avoid Payment Delays
- Update bank details immediately after switching accounts or receiving new cards.
- Review your benefit account online to ensure all information is accurate.
- Stay informed via DWP newsletters and official updates.
- Plan ahead financially around bank holidays to avoid short-term cash shortages.
The DWP August 2025 payment schedule reflects necessary changes due to national bank holidays, which could affect your benefit or pension date.
Whether you receive Universal Credit, State Pension, or other financial support, it’s important to understand your adjusted timeline and prepare accordingly.
Keeping your bank information updated and regularly checking your payment status will help you avoid unnecessary delays or confusion.
FAQs
Will I lose money if my payment is rescheduled?
No. Payments are not reduced—just rescheduled to the preceding working day if they fall on a bank holiday.
What should I do if I miss my DWP payment?
Wait until the next working day, then call the appropriate DWP helpline if it still hasn’t arrived.
Can I change my payment date manually?
No. Payment dates are automatically assigned based on your benefit type and National Insurance number.