DWP payments: The UK government has confirmed early payment dates for several benefits this May 2025 due to upcoming bank holidays. As millions of households rely on timely benefit deposits to manage essential living costs, this update ensures claimants receive their funds without delay. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), HMRC, and Social Security Scotland have taken joint action to advance these payments, helping families avoid disruptions during public office closures.
This move impacts a broad range of DWP payments, including Universal Credit, State Pension, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and more. With bank holidays on May 5 and May 26, affected payments are now rescheduled to arrive on the Fridays before those dates. This article explains which benefits are affected, when you’ll get paid, and what steps (if any) you need to take to ensure your payments are received on time.
DWP Payments Adjusted for Bank Holidays
Due to the May 2025 bank holidays, DWP payments have been rescheduled to ensure timely delivery. Claimants who were due to be paid on Monday, May 5 will now receive their funds on Friday, May 2. Similarly, payments expected on Monday, May 26 are anticipated to arrive on Friday, May 23. These changes are automatic, so there is no need for claimants to reapply or contact the DWP unless payment has not arrived by the next working day.
Overview Table: Early DWP and HMRC Payment Dates – May 2025
| Scheduled Date | Revised Payment Date | Responsible Department |
| Monday, May 5, 2025 | Friday, May 2, 2025 | DWP / HMRC / Social Security Scotland |
| Monday, May 26, 2025 | Friday, May 23, 2025 (Expected) | Awaiting official DWP confirmation |
Early DWP Payments: Key Changes to Note
The DWP has officially confirmed early payments for May 5, with the funds set to be released on May 2. These adjustments aim to ensure that claimants relying on essential support like Universal Credit or Pension Credit don’t face delays during long weekends when public offices are shut.
Claimants are encouraged to check their bank accounts on the revised date and only contact DWP if the payment is missing after the following working day. Offices will reopen on Tuesday, May 6 and again on Tuesday, May 27, following each holiday.
Affected DWP Benefits – Adjusted Payment Dates
Several core benefits are included in the DWP’s early May payment schedule. These adjustments ensure continuous support for millions of people relying on state assistance. Below are the benefits that will be paid early:
- Universal Credit
- State Pension
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
The change applies only to payments scheduled for May 5 and May 26. If your payment falls on any other date, it will be processed as usual.
HMRC Changes: Families to Receive Child Benefits Early
HMRC has also advanced Child Benefit and Guardian’s Allowance payments. These benefits, paid every four weeks, are critical for families managing monthly budgets and school-related expenses. To avoid holiday disruptions, payments scheduled for May 5 and May 26 will now arrive on May 2 and May 23, respectively.
No action is needed by claimants—these changes are applied automatically. If your payment is due but doesn’t arrive on the revised date, HMRC advises waiting until the next Tuesday before reporting an issue, due to possible bank processing delays.
Benefits Covered Under HMRC’s Early Payment Plan
Families receiving the following benefits should expect early deposits in May:
- Child Benefit
- Guardian’s Allowance
These payments are essential for supporting household expenses. The early payments help prevent financial strain during bank holiday weekends when many services and businesses are closed.
Social Security Scotland: Devolved Payments Also Affected
Social Security Scotland has confirmed that devolved benefits will follow the same early payment schedule. This affects benefits specifically for residents in Scotland. Payments that were due on May 5 will now be issued on May 2, and those due on May 26 will arrive on May 23.
These changes cover a wide range of supports, including:
- Adult Disability Payment
- Child Disability Payment
- Scottish Child Payment
- Carer Support Payment
- Pension Age Disability Payment
Claimants do not need to take any action. Funds will be deposited into bank accounts as usual, only earlier than expected. Contact is only necessary if the payment has not arrived by the following business day.
What Every Claimant Should Keep in Mind
As these revised dates approach, claimants are advised to mark their calendars and plan accordingly. Here’s what to remember:
- All early payments will be processed automatically
- No need to contact departments unless payment is late
- Public offices will be closed on May 5 and May 26
- Check your bank account on the revised dates
- Wait until the next working day before raising an issue
If you’re affected, this early support can help you better manage holiday spending and household bills. It’s also recommended to follow updates from DWP and HMRC in case of any last-minute changes.
Government’s Proactive Approach to Avoid Delays
The early delivery of DWP payments and HMRC benefits reflects a coordinated government effort to protect vulnerable individuals and families from delays during bank holidays. Public offices closing even for a single day can disrupt the routines of millions who rely on consistent support. By rescheduling payments, the government helps avoid hardship and financial stress.
For those whose payment dates are not affected by the bank holidays, regular payment schedules remain in place through May and June 2025.
FAQs on Early May DWP Payments
1. Will I get paid early if my usual payment date is May 5?
Yes. Payments for May 5 will arrive on May 2.
2. What if my payment doesn’t arrive on the revised date?
Wait until the following Tuesday before contacting DWP or HMRC.
3. Do I need to take any action to get my payment early?
No. Payments will be advanced automatically.
4. Are Scottish benefits also included in the early payment plan?
Yes. Social Security Scotland has confirmed early payment for all devolved benefits.
5. Will my benefit amount or frequency change?
No. Only the payment date is adjusted—everything else remains the same.
Final Thought
The early DWP payments for May 2025 are a thoughtful move to protect households from disruption during the UK’s spring bank holidays. Whether you’re receiving Universal Credit, Child Benefit, or a disability payment, these changes mean your support arrives when you need it most.
If you found this information helpful, share it with someone who relies on these payments. Stay informed, check your revised dates, and explore more updates or financial tips on our site today!
