The federal government has approved the early disbursement of salaries, allowances, and pensions for May 2026 to facilitate Muslim government employees and pensioners ahead of Eid ul-Azha.

According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Finance, payments for the month of May will be released on May 22, 2026, instead of the usual schedule. The decision was taken as Eid ul-Azha is expected to fall on May 27 or May 28, subject to moon sighting.

The Finance Ministry directed the Controller General of Accounts to ensure advance payments to federal government employees and pensioners in line with Rule 25(3) of the Federal Government Receipts and Payments Rules, 2025.

The notification was issued by Deputy Secretary Muhammad Anwar and circulated to the Accountant General Pakistan Revenues, Military Accountant General, Chief Accounts Officer of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other relevant departments.

The government usually announces advance salary and pension payments ahead of major religious festivals to help employees meet Eid-related expenses, including travel, shopping, sacrificial animal purchases, and household needs.

The move comes at a time when inflation and rising living costs continue to strain household budgets across the country, with many families expected to face higher spending during the Eid holidays.