As the holiday season approaches, managing finances becomes a priority for many households. For those receiving benefits, understanding the payment schedule around Christmas and New Year is vital to ensure that they can manage their expenses during this busy period.
In this article, we will cover the payment dates for 2024, including Universal Credit, Child Benefit, Tax Credits, and other key benefits, so you can plan ahead and avoid any payment delays.
Revised Payment Dates for Christmas 2024
During the festive season, public holidays like Christmas and New Year’s Day can affect the usual payment schedule.
In 2024, both Christmas and New Year’s Day fall on weekdays, meaning certain benefits will be paid earlier to avoid any delays caused by bank holidays and closures. Here’s what you need to know about the revised benefit payment dates.
When Will My Benefits Be Paid in 2024?
Benefit payments are usually made directly into your bank account, building society, or credit union account. If your regular payment day falls on a weekend or bank holiday, your payment will generally arrive on the last working day before. Here are the updated payment dates for various benefits around Christmas and New Year:
Universal Credit Payment Dates
| When Payment is Due | When Universal Credit Will Be Paid | Other Benefits Payment Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday 24 December | Tuesday 24 December | Tuesday 24 December |
| Wednesday 25 December | Tuesday 24 December | Tuesday 24 December |
| Thursday 26 December | Tuesday 24 December | Tuesday 24 December |
| Friday 27 December | Friday 27 December | Tuesday 24 December |
| Wednesday 1 January | Tuesday 31 December | Tuesday 31 December |
| Thursday 2 January (Scotland only) | Thursday 2 January | Tuesday 31 December |
Child Benefit Payment Dates
Child Benefit payments are also adjusted during the holiday period, with payments made earlier to accommodate the bank holidays.
| Due Date | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Wednesday 25 December | Tuesday 24 December |
| Thursday 26 December | Tuesday 24 December |
| Friday 27 December | Tuesday 24 December |
| Monday 30 December | Tuesday 31 December (Northern Ireland only) |
| Wednesday 1 January | Tuesday 31 December |
Tax Credit Payment Dates
For those receiving Tax Credits, the payment schedule is similarly adjusted for the Christmas holidays.
| Due Date | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Wednesday 25 December | Tuesday 24 December |
| Thursday 26 December | Tuesday 24 December |
| Friday 27 December | Tuesday 24 December (Northern Ireland only) |
| Wednesday 1 January | Tuesday 31 December |
| Thursday 2 January | Tuesday 31 December |
Other Benefits Payment Dates
While the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has not confirmed specific changes for other benefits, they generally follow the same payment adjustments as Universal Credit and Tax Credits. Benefits likely to be affected include:
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Employment Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Pension Credit
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- State Pension
What to Do If Your Benefits Aren’t Paid on Time
If your benefit payment does not arrive on the scheduled date, here’s what you should do:
- Verify the Payment Date: Check the payment date listed on your award notice or the official correspondence from the relevant agency.
- Check with Your Bank: Ensure there are no delays from the bank’s side, especially during the holidays.
- Contact the Relevant Office: If the payment still hasn’t arrived, contact the office responsible for your benefit to get more details or resolve any issues.
Knowing when your benefits will be paid during the holiday season is crucial for financial planning. In 2024, many benefits, including Universal Credit, Child Benefit, and Tax Credits, will be paid earlier to accommodate Christmas and New Year’s holidays.
Be sure to check your award notices, verify payment dates, and contact the relevant office if you experience any issues with delayed payments. Stay informed, and plan ahead to ensure a smooth holiday season!
Will all benefits be paid earlier during Christmas 2024?
Yes, most benefits, including Universal Credit, Child Benefit, and Tax Credits, will be paid earlier in December 2024, especially if their due date falls on a holiday. This ensures that recipients receive their payments without delay.
Are there any specific changes for Scotland’s payments in 2024?
Yes, if your payment is due on Thursday, 2 January, it will be paid on that day in Scotland, while other areas may receive their payments earlier, by 31 December.
Can I rely on these early payment dates?
Yes, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HMRC adjust payment schedules for public holidays to ensure timely payments, so you can rely on the early dates mentioned in this article for 2024.
One thought on “2024 Christmas Benefit Payment Dates: When Will Your Benefits Arrive?”
I feel it should have been sent out a week earlier. For birthdays in the last month . They need to consider December 24 a holiday also . Now people in group 4 will have to wait longer to get their payment.