The DWP has confirmed that two bank holidays in May shift payment dates for millions of households across the UK — including anyone in Ilford claiming Universal Credit, the State Pension, Jobseeker's Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, or Child Benefit.
KEY PAYMENT DATE CHANGES - 2026
4 May | Pensions · Universal Credit · JSA · ESA · Child Benefit → Fri 1 May
25 May | Pensions · Universal Credit · JSA · ESA · Child Benefit → Fri 22 May
Banks are closed on bank holidays, so DWP and HMRC always bring payments forward — the money arrives early, not late. There's no shortfall.
What this means for you
Check your account on Friday 1 May — if you're due a payment on Monday, it should already be there. If it's not showing, check with your bank first before contacting DWP or HMRC.