The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) have announced changes to benefit payment dates during the Christmas holiday period in 2025. With Christmas Day falling on a Thursday, those expecting payments on that day will receive their money a day earlier, on Wednesday, December 24, 2025. This adjustment applies to various benefits, including Universal Credit, State Pension, and Child Benefit, ensuring claimants have access to their funds before the holiday.
Understanding how public holidays impact benefit payments is essential for those who rely on these funds. Payments normally scheduled for a holiday or weekend are advanced to the last working day before that date. For instance, if a claimant’s regular payment day is Thursday and it coincides with Christmas, they will receive their payment on Wednesday instead. This system aims to mitigate any disruption during the festive season, allowing individuals to manage their finances effectively.
Key Benefits Affected by the Schedule Change
Several benefits will undergo this adjustment due to the holiday schedule. These include:
– Attendance Allowance
– Carer’s Allowance
– Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
– Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
– Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
– Pension Credit
– Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
– State Pension
– Universal Credit
Moreover, the HMRC payments that will be affected include Child Benefit, Child Tax Credit, Guardian’s Allowance, and Working Tax Credit.
In 2025, payments scheduled for Friday, December 26, or over the weekend will also be advanced to December 24. Following the Christmas period, New Year’s Day falls on a Wednesday in 2026, meaning payments typically expected on that day will be issued on Tuesday, December 31, 2025. Importantly, the amount of these payments will remain unchanged; only the timing will be affected.
Christmas Bonus Payment Details
In addition to regular benefits, eligible claimants will receive the Government’s Christmas Bonus. This one-off payment of £10 is tax-free and will be automatically deposited into the same account as other benefits in early December 2025. Those qualifying for this bonus include recipients of benefits such as the State Pension, PIP, and Carer’s Allowance. No application is necessary, simplifying the process for recipients.
For individuals concerned about receiving their payments on time during the holiday period, it is advisable to check the usual payment day. Claimants can refer to their award letters or online accounts to verify their expected payment dates. Even if the bank holiday adjustments have been made, delays can occasionally occur.
If payments are not received as expected, claimants should first confirm that the payment day aligns with the adjusted schedule. Some banks may process transactions later in the day, so checking with the bank could provide clarity. If payments remain missing, contacting the DWP for benefits such as Universal Credit or PIP, or HMRC for Child Benefit, is necessary. Claimants should have their National Insurance number and payment details on hand when reaching out for assistance.
As the holiday season approaches, being aware of these adjustments can help individuals better plan their finances. With the DWP and HMRC working to ensure timely payments, claimants can focus on enjoying the festivities without worrying about delayed funds.
