State Pension Payments to be Made Early Due to Easter Bank Holiday
Millions of pensioners in the UK are set to receive their state pension payments early next week, as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) adjusts its schedule in light of the upcoming Easter bank holiday. According to a report from GB News, those due to be paid on April 18 or April 21 will now see the money land in their accounts slightly earlier than expected.
The changes do not just apply to State Pensions, but also to other DWP benefits including Child Benefit, Disability Living Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, and Personal Independence Payment (PIP). Additionally, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and Social Security Scotland have also confirmed that some benefit payments scheduled for the Easter bank holiday weekend will be issued earlier than planned. As GB News reports, although the payments will arrive earlier, the amount received remains unchanged. However, claimants are being reminded that since the money will come sooner, it may need to last longer until the next scheduled payment.
The DWP has confirmed that payments such as the State Pension, Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Child Benefit, Adult Disability Payment (ADP), and Attendance Allowance that were due on Friday, April 18 or Monday, April 21 will now be paid on Thursday, April 17. Recipients do not need to take any action, as GB News notes, the DWP has confirmed the changes will be made automatically, and payments will be sent directly into people’s bank accounts as normal.
Those who experience a delay in receiving their payment are being advised to check the date on their award notice, confirm with their bank, and only then contact the DWP if there are still concerns. As GB News reports, claimants whose payments do not fall on the affected bank holiday dates can expect to receive their money as normal.
In addition to the scheduling changes, the DWP has confirmed that from April 2025, the State Pension will increase in line with the Government’s triple lock commitment. The full new State Pension will rise from £221.20 to £230.30 per week, giving pensioners a boost of £9.10 a week, or almost £500 a year. As GB News notes, those on the basic State Pension will see their weekly payments go from £169.50 to £176.45, adding around £359 annually.
The triple lock ensures the State Pension rises by the highest of either inflation, average wage growth, or 2.5 per cent – whichever is greater. With cost-of-living pressures continuing, the DWP’s latest adjustment and upcoming increase will be welcomed by many retirees. Pensioners are encouraged to check their updated payment dates and budgets as the changes take effect.
The changes to the payment schedule are due to the DWP offices, phone lines, and support services – including webchat and Jobcentre Plus locations – being closed over the bank holidays. As GB News reports, in May, two further bank holidays – Monday May 5 and Monday May 26 – are also expected to disrupt regular payment dates for some.
As the GB News article notes, Carer’s Allowance rates have also increased this month in line with inflation, along with other DWP benefits. Furthermore, Rachel Reeves confirmed the triple lock increase for this April. The upcoming changes will see many pensioners receive a boost to their payments, providing some relief from the current cost-of-living pressures.
For more information on the changes to state pension payments and other DWP benefits, individuals can visit the DWP website or contact the department directly.
