Millions of eligible individuals across the UK are set to receive a £10 Christmas bonus from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) this winter. This annual, tax-free payment is designed to provide a small financial boost to those on specific benefits during the festive season.
Who Qualifies for the £10 Payment?
The bonus is not universal. To receive it, you must be receiving one of the qualifying benefits during the first full week of December. The government confirms that eligible benefits include the State Pension, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and Disability Living Allowance.
It is crucial to note that if you claim Universal Credit as a standalone benefit, you will not be eligible for this particular payment. Furthermore, recipients must be 'ordinary residents' in the UK, Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, or Gibraltar.
Payment Details and Historical Context
The DWP states that the payment is made automatically, so you do not need to apply. It should arrive in your bank account before Christmas, typically in the first full week of December.
When checking your bank statement, look for the transaction code 'XB' or 'DWP XB'. Due to the Christmas and Boxing Day bank holidays, most DWP payments scheduled for those dates will be issued early, on Christmas Eve.
Despite its continued distribution, the bonus amount has been a point of discussion. The DWP has not increased the £10 sum since the 1970s. When adjusted for inflation, the payment's value has diminished significantly, equivalent to a loss of over £100 in today's money.
What to Do If You Don't Receive Your Bonus
If you believe you meet the eligibility criteria but have not received the payment, the government advises you to take action. You should contact the Jobcentre Plus office that manages your benefits or get in touch with the Pension Service if you are a pensioner.
