As the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact millions across the UK, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) remains a crucial lifeline for households struggling with rising bills and stagnant incomes. With around 24 million people receiving some form of DWP-administered benefit, understanding payment dates, eligibility, and available support is more important than ever.
Pension Payments Schedule + Cost‑of‑Living Support
| Scheme Name | Eligibility Criteria | Maximum Amount/Support | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Universal Credit | Working-age, low income | Varies by circumstances | [gov.uk/universal-credit] |
| State Pension | Reached state pension age | Based on NI contributions | Automatic/claim online |
| PIP | 16+, long-term disability/illness | Varies by assessment | [gov.uk/pip] |
| Budgeting Advance | Universal Credit claimant, 6+ months | £348–£812 | Via Universal Credit account |
| Discretionary Housing Payment | Housing Benefit/UC housing element claimant | Up to eligible rent | Local council |
| Household Support Fund | Low income, facing hardship | Up to £300 | Local council |
Key DWP Benefit and Pension Payment Dates for July 2025
Normal Payment Schedule
In July 2025, there are no bank holidays, so all benefit and pension payments will be made as usual. The following benefits are distributed by the DWP:
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Universal Credit
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State Pension
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Pension Credit
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Child Benefit
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Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
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Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
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Attendance Allowance
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Carer’s Allowance
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Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
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Income Support
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Jobseeker’s Allowance
State Pension Payment Dates
The basic state pension is paid every four weeks. The exact day you receive payment is determined by the last two digits of your National Insurance (NI) number:
| NI Number Ends With | Payment Day |
|---|---|
| 00 to 19 | Monday |
| 20 to 39 | Tuesday |
| 40 to 59 | Wednesday |
| 60 to 79 | Thursday |
| 80 to 99 | Friday |
Benefit Rate Increases and Upcoming Changes
April 2025 Uprating
All working-age benefits, including Universal Credit, PIP, DLA, Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, and ESA, were uprated by 1.7% in April 2025, matching the September 2024 inflation figure.
State Pension Increase
The state pension rose by 4.1% in April 2025, in line with the triple lock policy. This equates to an extra £472 per year for pensioners, matching wage growth in 2024.
Future Changes: Universal Credit and PIP
Labour’s planned welfare changes will see the Universal Credit standard allowance increase by £7 a week from April 2026, but the additional health element will be frozen at £97 until 2029/30. New claimants after April 2026 will receive a reduced health element of £50 per week.
Additional Support for Households
Budgeting Advance Loans
Universal Credit claimants can apply for an interest-free Budgeting Advance Loan for emergency expenses. The maximum amounts are:
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Single: £348
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Couple: £464
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With Child Benefit: £812
Repayments are deducted from future Universal Credit payments, with new caps limiting deductions to 15% of the standard allowance from April 2025.
Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP)
Households struggling with rent can apply for a DHP through their local council. Eligibility requires being in receipt of Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit. Payments can cover rent shortfalls, deposits, and advance rent for moving home.
Household Support Fund (HSF)
The HSF, administered by local councils, provides assistance for essentials such as food, energy bills, and appliances. The fund runs until March 2026, with payments of up to £300 available.
Charitable Grants
Turn2us and other charities offer grants for those in financial hardship, including support for disabled people, carers, bereaved families, and students.
Energy Provider Help
Major energy suppliers, including British Gas, Scottish Power, EDF, E.ON, and Octopus, offer support for customers struggling with bills. Contact your provider to check eligibility.
Council Tax Reduction
Households on certain benefits or facing severe hardship may qualify for a council tax reduction of up to 100%. Apply through your local council.
Free Childcare
Working parents can access up to 30 hours of free childcare for children aged 3–4, with expansions to include younger children from September 2025.
Energy Price Cap
The Ofgem energy price cap falls to £1,720 for July–September 2025, a 7% decrease from the previous quarter.
Mental Health Support
For those struggling with mental health, the following services are available:
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Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7)
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Mind Support Line: 0300 102 1234
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NHS Mental Health Triage Service: Online support
Migration from Legacy Benefits to Universal Credit
The DWP is migrating all legacy benefits—such as tax credits, income support, jobseeker’s allowance, and housing benefit—to Universal Credit by January 2026. Claimants should have received a migration notice and are advised to seek independent advice if unsure about the transition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When will I receive my state pension in July 2025?
A: Your payment day depends on the last two digits of your National Insurance number. See the table above for details.
Q: How do I apply for a Budgeting Advance Loan?
A: If you’ve been on Universal Credit for at least six months, apply through your Universal Credit online account.
Q: What is the Household Support Fund?
A: It’s a local council scheme offering up to £300 for essentials like food and energy bills for those in financial crisis.
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