In 2025, millions of UK residents will continue to receive vital benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), including Universal Credit, State Pension, and Cost of Living support. Keeping track of payment dates is key to planning finances, especially as bank holidays and changes in schedules can affect when money arrives.
This article outlines the official DWP payout calendar for 2025 so that you always know what to expect and when.
Universal Credit Payment Dates
Universal Credit is paid monthly into claimants’ bank accounts. While most people receive their payments on a consistent date each month, weekends and public holidays may cause early disbursements.
If your scheduled payment date falls on a bank holiday or weekend, DWP typically processes the payment on the previous working day.
State Pension Payment Dates
State Pension is paid every four weeks. Your specific day depends on the last two digits of your National Insurance number:
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00 to 19: Monday
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20 to 39: Tuesday
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40 to 59: Wednesday
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60 to 79: Thursday
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80 to 99: Friday
Knowing your assigned weekday helps you predict your regular payment cycle accurately.
Cost of Living Payments 2025
As part of ongoing economic relief measures, the UK government will issue multiple Cost of Living payments to eligible low-income individuals and households in 2025. These include:
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Spring 2025 – £301
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Summer 2025 – £300
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Autumn 2025 – £299
These payments are generally sent automatically to those receiving benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, or ESA.
Adjustments for Bank Holidays
Here are some notable 2025 bank holidays where payments may arrive early:
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Good Friday: April 18, 2025
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Easter Monday: April 21, 2025
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Early May Bank Holiday: May 5, 2025
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Spring Bank Holiday: May 26, 2025
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Summer Bank Holiday (England and Wales): August 25, 2025
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Christmas and Boxing Day: December 25–26, 2025
For each of these dates, payments scheduled on the holiday are usually made on the working day before.
Benefit Increases Starting April 2025
April is the usual time for annual adjustments to welfare payments. Here’s what’s expected this year:
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Working-age benefits will rise by 1.7%
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State Pension will increase by 4.1%, following the triple lock policy
This adjustment is aimed at helping claimants cope with inflation and rising living costs.
FAQs
What if my Universal Credit payment is due on a holiday?
If your Universal Credit falls on a public holiday, you’ll likely receive it the previous working day.
Will I automatically receive the Cost of Living payments?
Yes, if you’re eligible based on the qualifying benefits, you’ll receive these payments without needing to apply.
How often is the State Pension paid?
State Pension is paid every four weeks. Your payment day depends on your National Insurance number.
Are all benefits increasing in April 2025?
Yes, working-age benefits are going up by 1.7%, and State Pension payments will rise by 4.1%.
Do I need to update my details to receive payments?
It’s always wise to keep your contact and banking details up to date with DWP to ensure smooth and timely payments.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.