Millions of individuals receiving government assistance are set to see their payments distributed ahead of schedule next week due to adjustments made by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Those typically receiving funds on April 18th or April 21st can anticipate seeing deposits in their accounts a day earlier than usual. This alteration extends beyond just State Pension recipients; several other benefits are impacted, including:
- Child Benefit
- Disability Living Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and Social Security Scotland have also confirmed similar early disbursements for certain payments initially slated for the Easter bank holiday weekend. While these payments arrive sooner, the monetary value remains consistent. Recipients are cautioned to consider that receiving funds earlier may necessitate managing them over a longer period until the subsequent scheduled payment.
The reason for this shift is the temporary closure of DWP offices, phone lines, and support services—including webchat facilities and Jobcentre Plus locations—during the bank holidays. Consequently, payments for State Pension, Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Child Benefit, Adult Disability Payment (ADP), and Attendance Allowance originally due on April 18th or April 21st will now be issued on Thursday, April 17th.
No action is required from recipients; the DWP assures that these changes will occur automatically. Payments will be sent directly to bank accounts as usual.
“If you experience any unexpected delays,” a spokesperson stated, “please verify the payment date listed on your award notice and confirm with your financial institution before contacting the DWP.”
This initial adjustment is just the first of several anticipated over the coming months. Further disruptions are expected in May, coinciding with two additional bank holidays—May 5th and May 26th.
Looking ahead to 2025, significant increases to the State Pension are planned. Starting April 2025, the pension will be adjusted according to the Government’s triple lock policy:
“The full new State Pension will increase from £221.20 per week to £230.30 – a weekly boost of £9.10, or approximately £500 annually. Those receiving the basic State Pension will see their payments rise from £169.50 to £176.45, representing an annual increase of roughly £359.”
The triple lock guarantees that the State Pension increases each year by whichever is highest: inflation, average wage growth, or 2.5 per cent.
Given ongoing cost-of-living challenges, these adjustments and upcoming increases are expected to be positively received by many retirees. Individuals receiving benefits are advised to review their updated payment dates and adjust their budgeting accordingly.
