DWP Universal Credit payment dates are about to move for many

The DWP has confirmed that benefit payments may be paid early

While the festive season is a time of joy for many, it can also bring financial stress for some. This is largely due to December being packed with bank holidays , which can throw off the usual timing of benefit payments.

For those on benefits, this could mean your regular payment schedule might change as Christmas approaches. But don't fret, the Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) has a plan in place to dodge late payments if your due date lands on a bank holiday.

Usually, if your payment falls on a bank holiday, you'll receive it on the last working day before, though there are some exceptions. We've rounded up details on how different benefits will be affected by the Christmas bank holidays and when you should