The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has begun its annual distribution of a Christmas bonus to millions of individuals across the United Kingdom. The one-off, tax-free payment is automatically sent to those who claim qualifying benefits, including the State Pension.
What Is The DWP Christmas Bonus & When Is It Paid?
The fixed-sum payment is £10 and is traditionally issued by the DWP during the first full week of December. For 2025, the payments are landing in bank accounts from this week. Recipients should look for the reference "DWP XB" on their bank statements.
The bonus was first introduced in 1972. Adjusted for inflation, the £10 sum would be worth approximately £119 in today's money, a point that has drawn criticism from some recipients amid the ongoing cost of living crisis.
Who Is Eligible For The Payment?
To receive the bonus, you must be present or 'ordinarily resident' in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar during the qualifying week. Crucially, you must also be entitled to one of a specific list of benefits.
For couples, both partners can receive the £10 if they each claim an eligible benefit. If one partner does not claim a qualifying benefit, they may still get the payment if both are over the State Pension age (currently 66) and the claimant receives either Pension Credit or an increase in their benefit for their partner.
Full List of Qualifying Benefits
The benefits that make you eligible for the DWP Christmas bonus include:
- State Pension (including Graduated Retirement Benefit)
- Pension Credit (guarantee element)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Adult Disability Payment
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance (after the initial 13-week assessment phase)
- Incapacity Benefit at the long-term rate
- Severe Disablement Allowance
- Industrial Death Benefit
- War Widow’s or Widower’s Pension
- Constant Attendance Allowance
- Mobility Supplement
Criticism and Key Details
The payment has been labelled an "insult" by some, including readers of the Mirror, who argue the sum is derisory given soaring household bills. The DWP emphasises that the money is tax-free and does not affect any other benefit entitlements.
Payment is automatic for those who qualify. If you believe you are eligible but have not received the £10 by January, you are advised to contact the Jobcentre Plus office that handles your payments or the Pension Service.
