Millions of pensioners and benefit recipients in the UK will receive their payments earlier than usual next month due to the Easter bank holidays. If you’re expecting a payment from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming changes, increases in pensions, and other financial updates for April 2025.
Early Payments Ahead of Easter Bank Holiday
The DWP has confirmed that due to Good Friday (April 18) and Easter Monday (April 21) falling on a long weekend, state pension and benefit payments will be made early—on Thursday, April 17.
This applies to the following payments:
- State Pension
- Child Benefit
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Carer’s Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
If you’re one of the millions receiving these benefits, you don’t need to do anything—the money will be deposited into your bank account automatically, just a few days earlier than usual.
More Date Changes Coming in May
The DWP has also highlighted that May’s bank holidays—on May 5 and May 26— will affect payment schedules too. Recipients should expect adjusted payment dates for benefits during those weeks as well.
State Pension Increase from April 7
In more good news for retirees, the state pension will increase by 4.1% starting April 7, 2025. This rise is part of the government’s triple lock commitment, which ensures pension payments grow by the highest of:
- Inflation (measured the previous September)
- Average earnings (from May to July)
- Or a guaranteed minimum of 2.5%
This year’s rise is based on wage growth.
How Much More Will Pensioners Get?
- Current full new state pension: £221.20 per week (£11,502.40 annually)
- From April 7: £230.25 per week (£11,973 annually)
That’s an annual increase of £470.60, offering some financial relief to older citizens during rising living costs.
13 Million People Now Claiming State Pension
Recent government data shows the number of people receiving the state pension reached 13 million in August 2024, which is 203,000 more than the previous year.
Remember: the amount you receive is determined by your National Insurance contributions, so not everyone will receive the full pension amount.
Other Key Benefit and Financial Changes in April
1. Carer’s Allowance Threshold Rises
The earnings threshold for Carer’s Allowance will increase from £151 to £196 per week, making more people eligible while working part-time or earning a bit more.
2. Minimum Wage Boost
Workers on the National Minimum Wage will see a 6% pay rise in April, helping low-income workers manage rising household costs.
3. Tax Credits Transition to Universal Credit
The Tax Credit system officially closes on April 5, with eligible recipients being moved over to Universal Credit. If you’re still on Tax Credits, make sure you’ve received communication from DWP about the switch.
Other Benefits Affected by Easter Bank Holiday
Payments for the following may also arrive early due to the Easter holidays:
- Attendance Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Pension Credit
- Tax Credits (including Working Tax Credit)
- Universal Credit
If your regular payment date falls on a bank holiday, it will typically be issued the working day before.
What You Should Do
Check your usual payment dates and make a note of the new early payment dates around April 17.
No action is needed—payments will be processed automatically.
Be aware of upcoming changes to benefits like Carer’s Allowance and the end of Tax Credits.
Plan your monthly budget with these updates in mind.
FAQs
1. Why is my benefit payment date changing to April 2025?
Your payment date is changing because of the Easter bank holidays on Friday, April 18, and Monday, April 21. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will issue payments early—on Thursday, April 17—to ensure you receive your money before the holiday weekend.
2. Which payments will be affected by the Easter bank holiday?
The following benefits will be paid early:
- State Pension
- Child Benefit
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Carer’s Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Pension Credit
- Tax Credits (e.g. Working Tax Credit)
- Universal Credit
3. Do I need to do anything to receive my early payment?
No. You don’t need to take any action. Your payment will automatically be deposited into your bank account on the revised date.
4. Will there be other date changes later in the year?
Yes, May bank holidays (on May 5 and May 26) will also impact payment schedules. Affected payments will likely be made earlier than usual.
5. Is the state pension increasing in April 2025?
Yes. From April 7, 2025, the state pension will rise by 4.1% under the government’s triple lock policy.
6. How much more will pensioners receive after the increase?
The full new state pension will increase:
- From £221.20 per week to £230.25 per week
- That’s a rise from £11,502.40 to £11,973 annually
- A total increase of £470.60 per year
9. I receive a Carer’s Allowance and work part-time. How does the threshold change affect me?
If you earn between £151 and £196 per week, you may now qualify for Carer’s Allowance without losing eligibility. This could make a big difference if you’ve been just over the previous limit.
10. Where can I find the updated payment dates for my benefits?
The DWP usually posts updated payment calendars on their official GOV.UK website. You can also check your bank account closer to the payment date or contact your benefits advisor.
