Overview
- Payments due on Thursday, January 1, 2026, will be paid on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, under routine bank-holiday arrangements confirmed by the DWP.
- The adjustment covers Universal Credit, State Pension, Pension Credit, PIP, DLA, Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, ESA, Income Support and JSA.
- In Scotland, payments due on Friday, January 2, will also be paid on Wednesday, December 31, with Social Security Scotland programs included.
- HMRC says Child Benefit dates do not change in England and Wales, but in Scotland payments due Monday, January 5, move to Tuesday, January 6.
- Claimants are urged to budget for a longer gap after early payment and to report missing funds to the DWP on 0800 328 5644.