Thousands of individuals set to receive benefits like Universal Credit will experience changes in their payment schedules next month due to the Christmas and New Year bank holidays.
With Christmas Day falling on a Thursday and Boxing Day on a Friday this year, benefit payments expected on these days are likely to be processed on Wednesday, December 24. This adjustment is made because benefits are not disbursed on bank holidays. Similarly, since New Year’s Day, a bank holiday, falls on a Thursday this year, payments slated for that day should be received on Wednesday, December 31.
While the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has not yet officially confirmed the specific timetable for Christmas and New Year benefit payments, the aforementioned timing format has been traditionally followed in previous years.
It’s crucial to note that if payments are made earlier, recipients should budget accordingly as there will be a longer wait until the subsequent payment is received.
The frequency of benefit payments varies depending on the type of benefit. For instance, Universal Credit is paid on a fixed day each month, whereas Tax Credits are typically issued every four weeks or weekly. Child Benefit is usually paid every four weeks on a Monday or Tuesday.
In case a benefit payment is not received as expected, individuals are advised to verify the date on their award notice and bank account. If the payment is still missing, contacting the relevant helpline is recommended, although it’s important to be aware that these services may not be available on bank holidays.