Bank Holidays Could Delay Your Universal Credit and Benefits Payouts This May
May’s bank holidays on the 6th and 27th are set to shake up benefit payment schedules. Universal Credit, PIP, and other claimants, listen up: payments won’t be processed on these public holidays.
Payments Coming Early – But Budget Wisely
To dodge delays, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is pushing payments forward:
- May 6 payments will arrive on May 3
- May 27 payments will be made on May 24
Sounds good? Not so fast. Claimants need to stretch these early payments across a longer gap until the next payout. Plan your budget carefully to avoid running dry.
Which Benefits Are Affected?
This isn’t just Universal Credit. A whole bunch of essential financial supports will see adjusted schedules, including:
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Child Benefit
- Disability Living Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Pension Credit
- State Pension
- Tax Credits
- Universal Credit
Planning to Travel? Report It or Risk Losing Benefits
Universal Credit claimants heading abroad must inform the DWP beforehand. Failure to report international travel could result in payment cuts or loss of benefits.
“Claimants can continue to receive Universal Credit for up to one month while abroad, if eligible and fully reported to their work coach,” says the DWP. Exceptions apply for medical treatment or accompanying a partner or child, extending eligibility up to six months. However, moving abroad permanently ends benefit entitlement.
To update your travel plans or any other changes, call the DWP on 0800 121 4433. Stay sharp and avoid payment disruptions this May!
