DWP to Pay £10 Christmas Bonus to Benefit Recipients from December
Who Is Eligible for the Christmas Bonus?
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will be paying a £10 Christmas Bonus to eligible benefit recipients. This bonus is a one-off payment for those who receive:
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Universal Credit
You must have been receiving one of these benefits between October 25, 2022, and December 5, 2022, to be eligible. This includes those who receive payments from the Scottish Social Security Agency.
When Will the Christmas Bonus Be Paid?
The Christmas Bonus will be paid from December 5, 2022. The exact date you receive it will depend on your benefit payment schedule.
Can You Get the Christmas Bonus If You Are on Universal Credit?
Yes, Universal Credit claimants are eligible for the Christmas Bonus, provided they meet the other criteria (receiving payment between October 25, 2022, and December 5, 2022).
What Is the Purpose of the Christmas Bonus?
The Christmas Bonus is a financial assistance measure to help low-income households cover the extra costs associated with the Christmas period.
How Will the Christmas Bonus Be Paid?
The Christmas Bonus will be paid directly into the bank or building society account associated with your benefit payments.
Do You Need to Do Anything to Claim the Christmas Bonus?
You do not need to apply for the Christmas Bonus. It will be paid automatically to those who meet the eligibility criteria.
Contact Information
If you have any questions about the Christmas Bonus, you can contact the DWP at 0800 055 6688.
Additional Information
The Christmas Bonus is a tax-free payment. It will not affect your entitlement to any other benefits, such as Universal Credit or Housing Benefit.
The DWP has also announced that there will be a one-off heating payment of £25 to low-income households this winter. The payment will be made later this year.
These measures are part of the government's £1 billion support package to help people with the cost of living crisis.
