Scottish benefit claimants are being urged to plan for early festive payments.

Advice Direct Scotland, which runs the national advice service advice.scot, is encouraging households to budget for the changes.

The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) and Social Security Scotland have confirmed that benefit payments will be made slightly earlier than usual in December and January due to bank holidays on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.

People receiving one of 23 qualifying DWP benefits are also reminded to check for their £10 ‘Christmas bonus’.

The one-off, tax-free payment is usually paid automatically into bank accounts during the first week of December, so there is no need to claim it.

The payment should appear as ‘DWP XB’ on bank statements.

Anyone who has not received the payment by January 1 should contact their Jobcentre or the Pension Service if they are claiming a pension benefit.

Hazel Knowles, senior project lead for Advice Direct Scotland, said: "As we approach the Christmas and New Year holidays, it’s important to plan and budget for the earlier payment dates to help reduce stress.

"With the cost-of-living crisis, we know many Scots are finding it tough to manage their household finances and may be worried about when their payments will arrive.

"Make sure to check for your Christmas bonus, which should be paid automatically.

"If it hasn’t arrived by January 1, it’s worth contacting your Jobcentre or the Pension Service.

"Help is available for anyone who feels worried or unsure about what to do.

"Our team is on hand to offer free advice, whether it’s about payments, benefits, or other financial concerns.

"We also provide a free benefits calculator online to help people check if they’re getting everything they’re entitled to.

"At Advice Direct Scotland, we’re here to support everyone, no matter their personal circumstances."