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Thousands of people will receive their benefit payments earlier than usual this month due to the upcoming bank holidays for Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day. Here’s what you need to know:
Why Are Payments Early?
Benefit payments are typically not processed on bank holidays. If your payment date falls on one of these days, it will be issued earlier.
However, keep in mind that getting paid early means you’ll have a longer wait until your next scheduled payment, so plan accordingly.
Key Payment Dates
- Due Date: Wednesday, December 25, or Thursday, December 26
Payment Date: Tuesday, December 24 - Due Date: Wednesday, January 1
Payment Date: Tuesday, December 31
If your payment doesn’t fall on these dates, you’ll receive your money as usual. There’s no need to take any additional steps, and the amount you receive will remain the same unless your circumstances have changed.
When Are Benefits Normally Paid?
Payment frequency depends on the type of benefit you receive:
- Universal Credit: Monthly
- Tax Credits: Every four weeks or weekly
- Child Benefit: Every four weeks on a Monday or Tuesday
- Carer’s Allowance: Weekly or every four weeks
The following benefits may be affected by the holidays:
- Attendance Allowance – Every four weeks
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) – Every four weeks
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) – Every two weeks
- Income Support – Every two weeks
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) – Every two weeks
- Pension Credit – Every four weeks
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – Every four weeks
- State Pension – Every four weeks
What to Do If You Don’t Get Paid
If your payment doesn’t arrive as expected:
- Double-check your bank account.
- Confirm the correct payment date.
If there’s still an issue, contact the relevant helpline. Keep in mind that support lines may be closed on bank holidays.
Universal Credit:
- Call: 0800 328 9344
- Welsh-speaking: 0800 012 1888
- Textphone: 0800 328 1344
Child Benefit:
- Call: 0300 200 3100
- Outside the UK: +44 161 210 3086
Tax Credits:
- Call: 0345 300 3900
- Outside the UK: +44 2890 538 192
JSA, Income Support, ESA, or Incapacity Benefit:
- Call: 0800 169 0310
- Textphone: 0800 169 0314
- Relay UK: Dial 18001, then 0800 169 0310
Plan ahead to ensure you have everything you need during the holiday season.
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