Millions of Britons could receive an extra financial boost this festive season as the Department for Work and Pensions prepares to distribute its annual Christmas Bonus.
When is the qualifying week?
The crucial qualifying week for the DWP Christmas Bonus is expected to run from Monday, December 1, to Sunday, December 7. Your eligibility for this one-off payment primarily depends on which benefits you claim during this specific seven-day period.
This tax-free £10 payment traditionally arrives in bank accounts before December 25, providing additional support during the expensive holiday season. The bonus is automatically paid to eligible recipients, meaning most qualifying individuals won't need to take any action.
Who qualifies for the Christmas Bonus?
To receive the Christmas Bonus, you must be present or 'ordinarily resident' in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar during the qualifying week. Additionally, you need to be claiming at least one of 24 specified benefits.
The comprehensive list of qualifying benefits includes:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- State Pension
- Carer's Allowance
- Attendance Allowance
- Pension Credit
- Disability Living Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance
- War Widow's Pension
- Adult Disability Payment
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
Several Scottish-specific benefits also qualify, including Child Disability Payment and Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance.
Important details for couples
The DWP provides specific guidance for couples. If both partners receive a qualifying benefit, each person will get their own £10 Christmas Bonus.
Even if only one partner qualifies for benefits, the other might still be eligible if certain conditions are met. Both partners must be over State Pension age by the end of the qualifying week and have been present in the UK or specified areas during that period.
The non-qualifying partner becomes eligible if the benefit recipient is entitled to an increase for their partner or if Pension Credit is the only qualifying benefit being claimed.
The payment typically appears in the same account where you receive your regular benefits and might be identified as 'DWP XB' on your bank statement. If you haven't received the bonus by January 1, the DWP recommends contacting the Pension Service or your local Jobcentre Plus office, depending on who manages your payments.
