With December rolling in, it’s not just Christmas you need to plan for—there are also changes coming to your benefit and pension payments. As millions across the UK juggle holiday spending, it’s essential to know when your money is arriving, especially since the usual dates may be moved forward due to bank holidays.
So, if you receive payments from the DWP or your state pension, here’s everything you need to be ready this festive season.
Payments
Let’s start with the basics. December 25 (Christmas Day), December 26 (Boxing Day), and January 1 (New Year’s Day) are all bank holidays. That means if your benefit or pension was scheduled for one of these dates, you’re likely to be paid earlier than expected.
According to the DWP, when a benefit payment date falls on a weekend or a bank holiday, you usually get it on the last working day before the holiday. Sounds good, right? Just remember, while it might feel like a bonus to get paid early, that money has to stretch longer until the next cycle.
Schedule
Here’s a quick look at how the changes will affect December 2025 and early January 2026:
| Original Payment Date | New Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Thursday, 25 Dec (Xmas) | Wednesday, 24 Dec |
| Friday, 26 Dec (Boxing) | Wednesday, 24 Dec |
| Thursday, 1 Jan (New Year) | Wednesday, 31 Dec (Eve) |
So if you’re due a payment on Christmas Day or Boxing Day, your money should land in your account by Christmas Eve. If your payment was due on New Year’s Day, expect it a day earlier on New Year’s Eve.
Benefits
Wondering which benefits are affected by this shift? The short answer: most of them. These date changes apply broadly to the following DWP benefits:
- Universal Credit
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
- Child Benefit
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance
The only exception might be Child Benefit, which sometimes has a different payment rhythm, so it’s worth double-checking your statement or logging into your HMRC account.
Pensions
If you receive the basic state pension, your payday depends on the last two digits of your National Insurance number. Here’s how it normally breaks down:
| NI Number Ending | Pension Paid On |
|---|---|
| 00 to 19 | Monday |
| 20 to 39 | Tuesday |
| 40 to 59 | Wednesday |
| 60 to 79 | Thursday |
| 80 to 99 | Friday |
Just like benefits, if your regular pension payday falls on a bank holiday, expect it to hit your bank account one working day earlier.
Planning
Getting paid earlier in December can sound like a gift, but it comes with a catch. Since your money arrives sooner, your next payment might feel further away—especially during a time when spending tends to go up. So what’s the smart move? Budget with care. If you’re buying gifts, hosting dinners, or travelling, factor in the longer gap before your next payment.
And remember: if your payment doesn’t arrive when expected, don’t panic. DWP offices and helplines will be closed on bank holidays but open right before and after. You can call them at 0800 328 5644 to sort out any issues—but again, avoid the holidays themselves.
Holidays
Just to give you a quick heads-up—England and Wales will observe eight bank holidays in 2025. When these holidays fall on weekends, the following Monday is usually taken as a substitute holiday. This is why payments can get a little shuffled, and your local job centre or benefit office might be closed.
If you plan your finances ahead, keep track of these payment shifts, and maybe hold off on any unnecessary splurging, you’ll glide through December without a hiccup.
Whether you’re receiving Universal Credit, a state pension, or any other DWP-administered support, being informed helps you stay one step ahead of the festive frenzy. So mark those dates, plan your budget, and enjoy a stress-free holiday season.
FAQs
When will December 25 payments be made?
They’ll be paid early on Wednesday, December 24.
Will I get paid on Boxing Day?
No, payments due on Boxing Day will come on Christmas Eve.
When is New Year’s payment arriving?
Payments due January 1 will arrive on December 31.
Are all DWP benefits affected?
Most are, including Universal Credit and pensions.
What if my payment doesn’t arrive?
Call DWP at 0800 328 5644 after the holiday.
