The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that payments due on Monday 31 August will now be paid on Friday 28 August. It has also published a list of 11 payments the change covers. Appearing on that list is not the same as being paid early, because only claimants whose own payment date falls across the bank holiday weekend will see any difference.
The department set this out on 14 August, 17 days before the summer bank holiday in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability, said the earlier date would let households and pensioners collect what they are owed 'without disruption'. The department also tied the timing to the new school year, saying it lets parents and carers plan their spending with confidence.
