Full list of benefits paid at the start of this month, including Universal Credit
A number of benefits, including Universal Credit, will be paid early for some households this month.
Thousands who normally see payments hit bank accounts on certain days this month will see a change.
This is because there are fewer days in the month of February and because it is a leap year.
There are 29 days instead of the usual 28, but still less than the usual 30 or 31 days in other months.
Those who receive their benefits on the 30th or 31st of the month will receive them on February 29 instead.
If your payment date falls on a weekend, you will be paid the first working day before as usual.
The change is similar to how people on benefits are more likely to receive payments when their usual payment date falls on a holiday.
But not everyone on benefits will see their payment date change this month. Only those on the following:
If your normal payment date is the 28th of the month, you will not be affected and will receive your money as usual.
If you receive an AOW benefit, you will not notice any changes to your benefits.
Your Citizen Service Number determines on which day of the week you receive your pension money.
The state pension is paid every four weeks. The day on which you are paid usually depends on the last two digits of this identification number.
Will my benefit amount change?
Simply put: no. The amount you receive will not change and will remain the same as in previous months.
Unless there is a change of circumstances that affects what you receive.
You don't need to do anything if the leap year affects your usual date on which you receive the benefit.
But of course, keep in mind that if you get paid earlier, you will have to keep the money for longer than normal.
If you normally get paid on the 30 or 31 of each month and don't receive it on the 29, check the date you normally get paid and contact your bank. If this does not work, please contact the DWP.
You can also complain to the DWP about unpaid benefits.
Millions of households across the country can claim a range of cold weather payments to help with heating costs this winter.
In addition, thousands of people on Universal Credit could be missing out on an extra £5,483 a year.
We share a simple move to help you get what you deserve.
How do I apply for Universal Credit?
HERE'S everything you need to know about applying for Universal Credit.
You must submit an application for the new social security system via the government websitestarting with setting up an online account.
To create an account you will need an email address and a phone number.
You will then need to answer a series of questions about your current circumstances, known as your 'to-do list'.
This includes things like when you last got paid for a job, what your household income is and how many people depend on you financially.
If you have lost your job, Citizens Advice recommends that you do not apply until you have received your final paycheck or any final holiday pay.
This is because any money you receive after claiming Universal Credit counts as income and means you are entitled to less on your first payment.
You will then need to confirm your identity online.
You can apply by telephone in certain circumstances, for example if you do not have regular access to the internet, have a visual impairment or a physical condition that prevents you from using a computer or smartphone.
To do this, you will need to contact the Universal Credit helpline and ask if you can apply over the phone or arrange a home visit.
In this case, someone can call on your behalf if you are unable to do so yourself.
Do you have a money problem that needs to be solved? Get in touch by emailing money@the-sun.co.uk.
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