Hey, If you’re receiving Universal Credit, The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is making a small but important change to the payment schedule for August 2024. This is the first tweak to the system since the new Labour government took office on July 5.
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What’s Changing with Universal Credit Payments?
Universal Credit payments arrive on specific dates. But, due to the bank holiday on August 26, the DWP will pay out benefits a few days early – on Friday, August 23, instead of Monday, August 26. This change affects not just Universal Credit but also other benefits like Child Benefit, State Pension, and Personal Independence Payments (PIP).
How Will This Impact You?
If you’re a recipient, you’ll need to adjust your budget to cover the extra days until the next payment cycle. This might be tricky, especially if you’re self-employed or working, and rely on a steady cash flow. So, make sure to plan ahead!
Why Is This Happening?
The new government is trying to tackle economic challenges, like poverty and the cost of living crisis. They’re committed to helping low-income households and boosting employment through initiatives like the ‘Back to Work’ plan.
DWP Updated Payment Dates
| Original Due Date | Adjusted Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Friday, August 23 | August 23, 2024 (as normal) |
| Saturday, August 24 | August 23, 2024 |
| Sunday, August 25 | August 23, 2024 |
| Summer Bank Holiday Monday, August 26 | August 23, 2024 |
| Tuesday, August 27 | August 27, 2024 (as normal) |
What You Need to Do Now
Take note of the new payment date – August 23 – and plan accordingly. If you have any issues or concerns, contact the DWP’s complaints line. Also, keep in mind that similar adjustments will happen in December, when payments due on Christmas Day and Boxing Day will be moved forward to December 24.
Conclusion
The DWP is trying to ensure that benefits keep flowing, even on public holidays. So, stay informed, plan ahead, and breathe a little easier knowing that your benefits will arrive when you need them most.
FAQs
Why is the DWP changing the Universal Credit payment date in August 2024?
The DWP is changing the payment date due to the bank holiday on August 26, 2024.
When will Universal Credit payments be made in August 2024?
Payments will be made on Friday, August 23, 2024, instead of Monday, August 26, 2024.
Which other benefits are affected by this change?
Other benefits affected include Child Benefit, State Pension, Pension Credit, Personal Independence Payments (PIP), and more.
Why do I need to adjust my budget?
You need to adjust your budget to cover the extra days until the next payment cycle, as payments are being made earlier than usual.
What should I do if I have issues with my payment?
Contact the DWP’s complaints line if you have any issues or concerns with your payment.
Are there any other payment date changes I should be aware of?
Yes, similar adjustments will happen in December, when payments due on Christmas Day and Boxing Day will be moved forward to December 24.
Why is the government making these changes?
The government is trying to tackle economic challenges, such as poverty and the cost of living crisis, and ensure that benefits keep flowing even on public holidays.
