The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially confirmed which benefit claimants will receive a special £10 Christmas Bonus this year. This one-off payment is designed to offer a small financial boost to millions of vulnerable households during the costly festive season.
Who Qualifies for the Automatic Payment?
The payment will be made automatically to people who claim specific benefits during the qualifying week, which is typically the first full week of December. Eligible individuals do not need to apply; the money will be sent directly to their bank accounts.
The key qualifying benefits include:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Attendance Allowance
The support is primarily aimed at pensioners and people with disabilities. However, the DWP has clarified that households whose only claim is Universal Credit will not be eligible for this bonus.
Criticism and Calls for Change
While the extra cash may provide some help to hard-up families, the payment has faced significant criticism. Many argue that the £10 amount is too low to make a meaningful difference and has been called 'essentially worthless' in the face of rising living costs.
There have been growing calls from various groups for the government to increase the bonus rate so it can have a real impact on household finances over Christmas. Despite the criticism, the payment remains a longstanding tradition for those on certain legacy benefits.
The government's official position reiterates that the Christmas Bonus is a one-off, tax-free £10 payment. A spokesperson stated, 'You do not need to claim - you should get paid automatically,' confirming the payment will arrive in accounts before the Christmas holiday.
