Big change to services for Universal Credit households this weekend – check how you’re affected
HOUSEHOLDS on Universal Credit and other benefits are being warned of a big change coming on Monday.
Jobcentre Plus offices and phone lines are closed on bank holidays so will be shut on Monday May 25.
Jobcentre Plus offices and the National Jobcentre Enquiry Line are usually closed on weekends too.
Phone lines and offices are expected to reopen on Tuesday, May 26.
Some branches may be open on Saturdays so it’s worth checking your nearest branches opening hours.
Jobcentre Plus branches provide a range of services helping jobseekers, long-term sick or disabled people find employment or claim benefits.
The government-funded employment agency and social security office, is found in most cities and towns.
It was was formed when the Employment Service merged with the Benefits Agency.
It was renamed to Jobcentre Plus in 2002 and is part of the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions).
The bank holiday on Monday will also see benefit payment dates altered.
This is because payments are usually made the first working day before a bank holiday.
Remember, if you are paid early you’ll need to make the money last longer as you’ll have to wait extra days until your next payment.
If you are expecting an early payment and don’t get it double check the dates you are usually paid and contact your bank.
If you need further help or assistance you must contact the DWP.
Complaints about unpaid benefits can be filed with the DWP.
You can go to www.gov.uk/how-to-have-your-benefits-paid for more information.
OTHER BENEFIT CHANGES
The Government hikes benefit payments every year to keep up with the cost of food and other essentials.
Benefit payments have recently risen for millions, including for those on Universal Credit and Carer’s Allowance.
How much yours could rise by depends on your personal circumstances.
We’ve got a full breakdown of benefit increases here.
You can also see the new rates for the 2025/26 year via Gov.uk.
Are you missing out on benefits?
YOU can use a benefits calculator to help check that you are not missing out on money you are entitled to
Charity Turn2Us’ benefits calculator works out what you could get.
Entitledto’s free calculator determines whether you qualify for various benefits, tax credit and Universal Credit.
MoneySavingExpert.com and charity StepChange both have benefits tools powered by Entitledto’s data.
You can use Policy in Practice’s calculator to determine which benefits you could receive and how much cash you’ll have left over each month after paying for housing costs.
Your exact entitlement will only be clear when you make a claim, but calculators can indicate what you might be eligible for.