DWP announces Universal Credit and state pension payment dates to change for millions this Christmas - check when you'll get paid

The changes are part of the Government's Plan for Change, aimed at providing financial support to those who need it most during the holiday season.

Those expecting Universal Credit payments on Christmas Day will now receive them on Tuesday, December 24. Similarly, payments scheduled for New Year's Day will be moved forward to Tuesday, December 31.

The early payment arrangements will affect various benefits, including Child Benefits and Tax Credits, during what is typically a period of increased financial pressure for low-income families.

Payments due on Thursday, December 26 will be moved to Tuesday, December 24.

Those expecting payments on Friday, December 27 will receive them on the same day, though tax credits will be paid on December 24.

Child Benefit payments scheduled for Monday, December 30 will be moved to Tuesday, December 31.

For payments due on Thursday, January 2, Universal Credit claimants will receive their money on the same day, while tax credit recipients will be paid on December 31.

All other benefits due between December 25 and January 2 will be paid on either December 24 or December 31, depending on their original payment date.

Rt Hon Sir Stephen Timms MP, minister for Social Security and Disability said: "While a time of joy for many, the Christmas period can be overshadowed by financial worry for others, particularly for families on the lowest incomes.

"Our Plan for Change will deliver the long-term economic stability and growth needed to improve every family's financial security by putting more money in their pockets while we take immediate action to support them with the cost of living."

He encouraged struggling families to contact their local councils about additional support through the Household Support Fund.

The Government has extended the Household Support Fund with a £421million cash injection through to March 2025.

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An additional £1billion was allocated at the Budget to extend the fund further until March 2026, allowing councils to maintain their cost of living support programmes.

Local councils are working alongside charities and community groups to deliver practical assistance through the fund.

This support includes providing essential items such as key appliances and school uniforms to families in need.

The fund also supports energy efficiency improvements in homes and offers cookery classes to residents.

Councils can use the fund to create an extra safety net of support for those struggling with living costs.

Local authorities are encouraged to work with residents to determine their eligibility for this additional assistance.

The Government has also introduced a new Fair Repayment Rate for benefit deductions, benefiting 700,000 of the poorest households with children on Universal Credit.

The new rate reduces deductions for benefit overpayments from 25 per cent to 15 per cent of payments. This change could save eligible families up to £420.

It forms a key element of the Prime Minister's Plan for Change, which aims to fix the social security system and reduce poverty.

The Government has pledged to continue reviewing Universal Credit to ensure support reaches those who need it as quickly as possible.