The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that all benefit payments will be disbursed as scheduled throughout July 2025, as the month contains no bank holidays to affect the processing schedule. This ensures consistent support for approximately 24 million UK residents currently receiving various DWP-administered benefits.
Growing Levels of Unclaimed Benefits in the UK
Recent estimates from Policy in Practice indicate that £22.7 billion worth of income-related benefits and social tariffs remain unclaimed annually across Great Britain. This marks a 21% increase from prior assessments, driven by higher benefit rates and improved methodologies that highlight the growing number of individuals missing out on vital support.
These unclaimed resources underscore critical links between poverty, public health, and access to essential services. By increasing awareness and uptake of available benefits, both low-income individuals and public infrastructure can better navigate the ongoing cost of living crisis.
Regular Payments for Key Benefits in July
Since there are no bank holidays in July, DWP will issue regular payments for the following benefits:
- Universal Credit
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
- Child Benefit
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Employment Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
Universal Credit Transition by January 2026
The DWP’s ongoing migration from legacy benefits to Universal Credit is expected to be fully completed by January 2026. This shift is part of a broader strategy to simplify the welfare system and ensure more efficient support delivery.
Methodology Behind Unclaimed Benefit Estimates
To determine the scale of unclaimed benefits, Policy in Practice utilized official data from the Labour Party government and the DWP where accessible. In instances where direct data was unavailable, alternative estimation techniques and the most recent information were applied to produce credible and up-to-date figures.
Importantly, the £22.7 billion figure excludes disability-related and discretionary benefits, which require additional eligibility assessments. When these categories are accounted for, the true amount of unclaimed financial support surpasses £30 billion.
Conclusion
With no delays in July 2025 DWP payments, millions will receive critical financial support on time. However, the growing volume of unclaimed benefits, now estimated at over £30 billion, highlights an urgent need for awareness and action. Ensuring eligible individuals access their rightful support is crucial to tackling poverty, reducing pressure on public services, and building a more equitable welfare system.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will my benefit payment be delayed in July 2025?
No, there are no bank holidays in July 2025, so DWP payments will be made on time as per the regular schedule.
2. What types of benefits are included in the July payments?
Benefits such as Universal Credit, State Pension, PIP, Child Benefit, and Carer’s Allowance, among others, will be disbursed normally in July.
3. How much unclaimed benefit support exists in the UK?
Current estimates suggest there are £22.7 billion in unclaimed income-related benefits, which could exceed £30 billion when disability and discretionary benefits are included.
4. Why are so many benefits left unclaimed?
Barriers include lack of awareness, complex application processes, and eligibility misunderstandings. Addressing these can improve uptake and public welfare.
5. When will all legacy benefits be replaced by Universal Credit?
The full migration from legacy benefits to Universal Credit is scheduled to be completed by January 2026.