DWP confirms changes to state pension and benefit payment dates for April 2025 due to Easter bank holidays. Find out who’s affected, when you’ll get paid, and how to prepare for the shift.
Introduction
If you receive a state pension or benefits in the UK, your payment date is set to change next month due to the Easter bank holidays in April 2025. Millions of pensioners and benefit claimants will be paid earlier than usual as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) prepares for Good Friday and Easter Monday closures.
Understanding when your money is coming in is crucial—especially for budgeting over long weekends. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming changes and how they could affect you.
Why Are State Pension Payments Changing in April 2025?
The DWP shifts payment dates when scheduled payments fall on bank holidays, as public holidays affect banking operations across the UK. This year, Good Friday lands on April 18, and Easter Monday on April 21, meaning that the DWP won’t issue payments on those dates.
To ensure people receive their money without delay, payments will instead be made earlier than scheduled.
When Will State Pension and Benefits Be Paid Instead?
If your usual payment is due on:
- Friday, April 18 (Good Friday), or
- Monday, April 21 (Easter Monday),
…you will receive your payment on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
This applies to all eligible recipients, whether it’s the state pension, Universal Credit, or other types of government support.
Who Will Be Affected by the Payment Date Change?
The DWP has confirmed that several types of payments will be processed early, including:
- State Pension
- Child Benefit
- Universal Credit
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Carer’s Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Income Support
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
If your payment is typically due on a bank holiday and you live in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, your money will arrive ahead of time.
How to Prepare for the Early Payment
Getting paid early might seem like a bonus—but it also means a longer wait until your next payment.
Here’s how to avoid running short:
- Adjust your budget: Your next payment may still be on your usual schedule, so plan for a slightly longer gap.
- Cover essentials first: Prioritize rent, bills, and groceries.
- Avoid overspending: An early payment isn’t extra money—just a reshuffle.
Remember, Easter can be an expensive time with family events, travel, and shopping, so mindful planning is key.
No Action Needed – DWP Will Pay Automatically
Worried about how to apply for the early payment? Don’t be.
The DWP will automatically process the payment earlier if your usual date falls on a bank holiday. There’s no need to call or fill out any forms. You’ll get the full amount you’re entitled to, deposited directly into your account as usual.
What If You Don’t Receive Your Payment on Time?
In rare cases, payments might be delayed due to:
- Banking errors
- Account issues
- System errors
Here’s what to do:
- Check your award letter to confirm the payment date.
- Wait until at least midday on April 17 before taking action.
- Contact your bank to confirm the transaction.
- Call the DWP helpline if the issue persists.
Other 2025 Bank Holidays That May Affect Payments
The Easter weekend isn’t the only time your payment might shift this year. Keep an eye on these dates:
- Early May Bank Holiday – Monday, May 5
- Spring Bank Holiday – Monday, May 26
- Summer Bank Holiday – Monday, August 25
- Christmas Day – Thursday, December 25
- Boxing Day – Friday, December 26
Similar to April, payments scheduled on these dates will likely be made early, often the previous working day.
Why Staying Informed Matters
A change in when you receive your money can throw off your entire monthly budget if you’re not prepared. This is especially important for:
- Retirees on fixed incomes
- Disabled individuals
- Low-income households
- Carers and single parents
Staying up to date on DWP announcements can help you avoid overdrafts, missed bills, and financial stress.
Conclusion
The DWP’s Easter shake-up to state pension and benefit payment dates is designed to ensure no one misses out due to bank holidays. If your payment is due on April 18 or April 21, expect it to arrive early—on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
There’s nothing you need to do, but budgeting carefully and knowing your new date can make all the difference during a longer payment gap.
FAQs
1. Why is my pension being paid early in April 2025?
Due to Easter bank holidays, the DWP is issuing payments early to avoid disruption.
2. What if I don’t get my payment on April 17?
Wait until midday, then contact your bank. If there’s still an issue, reach out to the DWP helpline.
3. Will I receive less money if it’s paid early?
No, you will receive the full amount. Only the date of the payment changes.
4. Does this change apply to Universal Credit too?
Yes, all DWP benefits affected by bank holidays will be paid early, including Universal Credit.
5. What should I do to prepare for the early payment?
Plan your budget to last until your next scheduled payment, as there will be a longer gap than usual.
