Because the second May bank holiday falls on Monday 26 May, anyone who is usually paid benefits on that day will receive it on Friday 23 May instead.
Those receiving Universal Credit, State Pension, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Carer’s Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Income Support, Attendance Allowance or Pension Credit will receive their money early.
Fiona Peake, personal finance expert at Ocean Finance, said those who receive it and are used to weekly budgeting need to ensure they are prepared for the change.
She said: “Getting your money on Friday instead of the Monday might feel like a win going into the long weekend, but it means you’ll have three extra days to stretch it.
“That can throw your budget out, especially if you’re living week to week.
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“It’s not always easy to hold back spending when your account’s just been topped up, but blowing through your benefit early could leave you short when it really matters.”
Late payment advice
If your benefits haven’t arrived on time, Peake said you should contact Universal Credit as soon as possible.
She said: “Most benefits hit accounts in the early hours, but if yours hasn’t arrived by midday Friday, check your bank again before panicking.
“If nothing shows up, get on the phone. Don’t wait until after the bank holiday when lines will be jammed. Contact Universal Credit, PIP or your relevant benefits line before 5pm Friday, so there’s still time to get help.”
If you are due to get your benefits on a different day, rather than bank holiday Monday, do not expect an early top-up, Peake noted.
“Some people get caught out by thinking they’ll always get their benefits early around a bank holiday.
“That’s not the case. If your next due date falls on a normal working day, your payment will be back to its usual timing,” Peake added.
