State pensioners and recipients of certain Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits will see their payments arrive earlier than usual in August due to the bank holiday at the end of the month. Instead of the normal payment date of 31 August, DWP payments will be made 72 hours in advance, on Friday 28 August.
The change affects a range of benefits, including the State Pension, Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, Pension Credit, Employment Support Allowance, and payments under the Industrial Injuries Compensation Scheme.
DWP Minister Sir Stephen Timms said: “We’re pleased to confirm that benefit payments due on the August bank holiday will be paid earlier. This will help ensure families and older people receive their money without disruption over the bank holiday period.”
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He added: “This Government is determined to ensure people across the country have the support and breathing room they need. That is why we’ve taken action to reduce the cost of energy bills, increased the National Minimum Wage, supported half a million children out of poverty, and helped people access good, secure jobs.”
The department also emphasised its commitment to supporting sick or disabled individuals into meaningful employment through a £3.5 billion investment programme that will run until the end of the current parliament. This includes the nationwide expansion of the Connect to Work scheme, which aims to unlock employment opportunities and help lift people out of poverty.
Additionally, 1,000 Pathways to Work advisers are working to support Universal Credit recipients with no job-seeking requirements, helping them move closer to employment. The DWP is also collaborating with employers to deliver the Jobs Guarantee, designed to give every young person a chance to earn or learn.
The early payment adjustment this August is part of the DWP’s effort to lessen disruption during the bank holiday and provide timely support to those reliant on key benefits.