Thousands of Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) claimants are set to experience a payment date change in August 2025 due to a significant schedule shift caused by the August Bank Holiday.
This adjustment affects recipients of the State Pension, Universal Credit, and several other DWP benefits.
With inflation and the cost-of-living crisis continuing to strain UK households, it’s essential to stay informed and plan ahead for this change.
Why Are Payments Changing in August 2025?
The August Bank Holiday falls on Monday, August 25, 2025, a public holiday across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
As per standard DWP policy, when a benefit payment is due on a bank holiday, it is typically paid early, usually on the last working day before the holiday—which in this case is Friday, August 22, 2025.
Importantly, only the payment date changes—not the amount. Individuals who typically receive their benefit on the 25th of each month should expect the payment three days early.
Who Will Be Affected by This DWP Schedule Change?
This change will primarily affect those who are scheduled to receive their benefit or pension payments on Monday, August 25. Both DWP and HMRC benefits are impacted.
Here’s a list of payments affected:
- State Pension
- Universal Credit
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Pension Credit
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Child Benefit (administered by HMRC)
- Tax Credits (administered by HMRC)
Current Benefit Payment Amounts (2025 Updates)
The government recently adjusted benefit amounts in April 2025, reflecting cost-of-living increases and the triple lock policy on pensions.
| Benefit Type | Eligibility Criteria | Current Weekly/Monthly Payment (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| New State Pension | Reached pension age on/after April 6, 2016 | £230.25 per week |
| Basic State Pension | Reached pension age before April 6, 2016 | £176.45 per week |
| Universal Credit (Single, <25) | Under 25 years old | £316.98 per month |
| Universal Credit (Single, 25+) | 25 years or older | £400.14 per month |
| UC (Couples, both under 25) | Both under 25 years old | £497.55 per month |
| UC (Couples, one 25 or older) | One or both partners 25+ | £628.10 per month |
All these payments will be disbursed early if scheduled for August 25.
What Should You Do If Your Payment Doesn’t Arrive?
If you’re expecting a payment on August 25 and don’t receive it early by August 22, it’s recommended to contact the relevant department immediately—either DWP or HMRC, depending on the benefit.
Payments are made directly to your bank, building society, or credit union account, and delays are rare. However, technical errors or banking holidays could occasionally cause delays.
The upcoming August Bank Holiday in 2025 will trigger early State Pension and Universal Credit payments for thousands of UK residents.
This DWP shake-up is part of routine holiday adjustments but comes at a critical time when households are already stretched by rising food and energy prices.
Mark Friday, August 22, 2025, on your calendar if you’re due to be paid on the 25th, and plan accordingly to avoid any financial disruptions.
FAQs
Will I receive more money due to the early payment?
No, the payment amount remains unchanged. Only the date of disbursement is affected due to the bank holiday.
What if I don’t get paid early on August 22?
If your payment doesn’t arrive as expected, contact DWP or HMRC immediately to report the issue and seek clarification.
Does this change affect every benefit payment?
Only benefits scheduled for August 25 are affected. Payments due on any other date will be unaffected.