As the cost of living continues to stretch household budgets across the UK, millions still rely on financial support to make ends meet. Despite some improvements in inflation, essential goods remain more expensive than during the peak of the crisis in 2022. Energy costs, food prices, and rent continue to put pressure on families, and even though one in three people claim DWP benefits, billions in support go unclaimed each year.
If you’re wondering when your next benefit or pension payment is due in September—or whether there’s any additional help available—this guide breaks it all down clearly.
Table of Contents
Benefits
The good news is there are no bank holidays in September 2025, so all DWP-administered benefit payments will be made as usual. This includes:
- Universal Credit
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Child Benefit
- Carer’s Allowance
- Attendance Allowance
- Employment Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
These are all paid directly into your bank account on your usual payment date, based on your claim type and schedule.
Pensions
For those receiving the basic State Pension, payments also remain on schedule in September. Pensions are paid every four weeks, and your payment day depends on the last two digits of your National Insurance (NI) number:
| NI Number Ending | Payment Day |
|---|---|
| 00–19 | Monday |
| 20–39 | Tuesday |
| 40–59 | Wednesday |
| 60–79 | Thursday |
| 80–99 | Friday |
If you’ve recently transitioned to the State Pension or Pension Credit, make sure to check your payment letters or online DWP account to confirm your exact dates.
Increases
Back in April 2025, most benefits increased by 1.7 percent, while the State Pension saw a bigger jump of 4.1 percent—equal to around £472 a year.
Looking ahead, Labour’s welfare bill promises to deliver above-inflation increases to Universal Credit every April until 2029, starting with a 2.3 percent boost in April 2026.
However, there’s a downside. For new claimants, the health element of Universal Credit will be reduced from £205 per month to £50. That rate will be frozen until 2029. If you believe you qualify for the health component, it’s important to apply before these new rules fully come into effect.
Support
Alongside regular benefit payments, several other support schemes are still active:
- Budgeting Advance Loans (Universal Credit)
- Discretionary Housing Payments
- Household Support Fund (check with your local council)
- Energy provider hardship funds
- Council tax reductions
- Free childcare (up to 30 hours for qualifying families)
- Charitable and community grants
These can often be accessed through local councils, government websites, or registered charities.
If you’re unsure what you might qualify for, check tools like the Policy in Practice calculator, which estimates unclaimed benefits. Shockingly, around £23 billion in benefits goes unclaimed every year.
Cost
Energy prices continue to be a concern for many, although Ofgem’s price cap dropped from £1,849 to £1,720 for the July–September quarter. The next update on the energy cap covering October to December is expected at the end of August.
As for the Cost of Living Payment scheme, the DWP has yet to confirm any further payments beyond those issued between 6 and 22 February 2024. If a new round is introduced, announcements should be made in autumn.
Health
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by financial stress or navigating the benefits system, you’re not alone. You can reach out to:
- Samaritans: 24/7 support across the UK and Ireland
- NHS England: Offers an online mental health triage service
- Mind: Mental health charity with a benefits advice line
These services can help you with both emotional support and practical advice.
If you’re on benefits or a pension, September brings stable payment dates—but also a reminder to check if you’re claiming everything you’re entitled to. A few minutes could mean hundreds more in monthly support.