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Your State Pension payment day by National Insurance number
When is the State Pension paid? Check by NI number
The State Pension is paid every four weeks in arrears by DWP. Your payment day of the week is fixed and determined by the last two digits of your National Insurance (NI) number. This day never changes unless you update your personal details with the Pension Service.
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🗓️ State Pension payment day by NI number
| Last two digits of your NI number | Payment day |
|---|---|
| 00 to 19 | Monday |
| 20 to 39 | Tuesday |
| 40 to 59 | Wednesday |
| 60 to 79 | Thursday |
| 80 to 99 | Friday |
How to find your NI number: it appears on your National Insurance card, any letter from DWP or HMRC, your P60 or P45, or on your payslips. Your NI number follows the format: two letters, six digits, one letter — for example, AB 12 34 56 C. The last two digits before the final letter determine your payment day.
Important: if your payment day falls on a bank holiday, DWP will credit your bank account or building society account on the last working day before the holiday. Always check the GOV.UK bank holiday calendar when planning your budget around those dates.
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🏦 How is the State Pension paid?
The State Pension is paid directly into your bank account, building society account or credit union account via BACS direct credit — the same system used for most UK automatic payments. The funds are typically available by 9am on your payment day.
If you do not have a bank account, you may be able to use a Post Office card account or a basic bank account offered by most UK high street banks. DWP can advise on your options if you call the Pension Service on 0800 731 7898.
Financial planning tip: because the State Pension is paid every four weeks rather than monthly, the payment dates shift slightly each month. Note your next four payment dates in your calendar and schedule your direct debits, standing orders and essential bills around them to keep your current account balance healthy throughout the month.
Your available balance remains in your bank account after the automatic payment is credited. There is no requirement to withdraw on the same day — choose a time that suits you to avoid queues at cash machines and bank branches.
If you recently changed your bank account or sort code, ensure the updated details have been confirmed by DWP before your next payment date to avoid a missed or returned direct credit.