Thousands of individuals expecting benefits, including Universal Credit, will have their payment schedules adjusted next month to account for the Christmas and New Year bank holidays. Christmas Day falls on a Thursday and Boxing Day on a Friday this year, leading to payments that are typically due on those days being made on Wednesday, December 24 instead.
Since benefits are not processed on bank holidays, New Year’s Day falling on a Thursday will also impact payment dates. Those expecting benefits on New Year’s Day should anticipate receiving their funds on Wednesday, December 31.
While the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has not officially confirmed the exact payment timetable for Christmas and New Year benefits, past years have followed a similar format.
Receiving payments earlier means budgeting carefully to cover the extended period until the next payment arrives. The frequency of benefit payments varies depending on the type of benefit, such as Universal Credit paid monthly and Tax Credits every four weeks or weekly.
If a benefit payment is missing, verify the date on the award notice and in your bank account first. If the payment remains absent, contact the appropriate helpline, although note that these services are usually closed on bank holidays.