The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that benefit payment dates will change next month as a result of two bank holidays for Easter, specifically Good Friday on April 3 and Easter Monday on April 6. Benefits such as Universal Credit will be paid early to avoid delays caused by the bank holidays, meaning those scheduled to receive their payments on these dates will instead see the funds in their accounts on the prior working day, Thursday, April 2.

This adjustment is significant as it affects not only Universal Credit but also other benefits managed by HMRC, including Child Benefit, which is typically issued every four weeks on a Monday or Tuesday. Beneficiaries should be aware that while they will receive their payments earlier, it also means that there will be a longer interval until the next scheduled payment. This is particularly relevant for families relying on Child Benefit, which plays a crucial role in supporting children’s costs.

The DWP has ensured that the payments will be made to the regular bank accounts as usual, and the amounts due will remain unchanged. Such announcements are essential for beneficiaries to manage their finances effectively around holiday periods, highlighting the operational adjustments by the DWP in consideration of public holidays.