UK Government Moves Millions' Benefit Payments Ahead August Bank Holiday

The UK Government has confirmed that millions of people will receive their major benefit payments early on Friday, August 22, ahead of the August bank holiday weekend originally scheduled for August 23 to 25. This early payment applies to Universal Credit, Child Benefit, State Pension, Personal Independence Payment, Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, and Disability Living Allowance, ensuring recipients have financial certainty during the costly back-to-school period. Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms emphasized that this proactive measure aims to prevent families from having to choose between essential expenses like school supplies and food. The government highlighted that this aligns with its Plan for Change, which prioritizes raising living standards and supporting working families and vulnerable groups. Additionally, for the first time, the Universal Credit standard allowance will permanently rise above inflation, benefiting nearly four million households. The early payment policy guarantees continuity of support by delivering funds before banks and government offices close for the holiday weekend.