John Hughie
Millions of benefit recipients in the UK will be pleased to know that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will once again distribute the £10 Christmas Bonus later this year.
Despite remaining the same for decades, this small seasonal payment provides a bit of relief for those on qualifying government support programs.
What Is the DWP Christmas Bonus?
The Christmas Bonus is a one-off, tax-free payment of £10 offered by the DWP. It is intended for people claiming certain state benefits during a specified period in December, known as the “qualifying week.” This usually falls within the first full week of December each year.
The money is paid automatically—no application is required—and will appear on bank statements as “DWP XB.”
Who Is Eligible for the Christmas Bonus?
To get the £10 bonus, you must be located or habitually resident in the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, or Gibraltar throughout the qualifying period.
Additionally, you must be receiving at least one of the following qualifying benefits:
Qualifying Benefits
- Adult Disability Payment
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Child Disability Payment
- Constant Attendance Allowance (Industrial Injuries or War Pensions)
- Contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance (main phase after 13 weeks)
- Disability Living Allowance
- Incapacity Benefit (long-term rate)
- Industrial Death Benefit (widows/widowers)
- Mobility Supplement
- Pension Credit (guarantee element)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- State Pension (includes Graduated Retirement Benefit)
- Severe Disablement Allowance
- Unemployability Supplement/Allowance (Industrial Injuries or War Pensions)
- War Disablement Pension (at State Pension age)
- War Widow’s Pension
- Widowed Mother’s Allowance
- Widowed Parent’s Allowance
- Widow’s Pension
What If You’re Married or in a Civil Partnership?
Both partners can receive the Christmas Bonus individually, as long as they meet the benefit requirements. Even if only one person receives a qualifying benefit, the other may still qualify under certain conditions.
- Both must be over State Pension age during the qualifying week.
- The non-qualifying partner must also be resident in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, Gibraltar, EEA, or Switzerland during the same week.
And one of the following must also apply:
- You’re entitled to an increase in a qualifying benefit for your partner.
- You receive only Pension Credit.
History and Criticism of the Christmas Bonus
The £10 Christmas Bonus was initially given out in 1972 and has become a long-standing tradition. However, it has never seen a permanent increase since its inception.
Despite being temporarily increased to £70 during the 2008 financial crisis, the dividend was cut to £10 the next year and has been steady since. Many recipients have voiced concern, calling the consistent amount as “insulting” in today’s society.
Every year, millions of people benefit from the DWP Christmas Bonus, which is a tiny but automatic payment. While the £10 donation may appear out of date, it remains a symbolic show of solidarity over the holiday season.
Knowing the qualifying benefits and residency rules can ensure you don’t miss out on this year’s payment. If you or your partner meet the conditions listed, you’ll receive the bonus without having to lift a finger.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the Christmas Bonus?
No, the £10 bonus is paid automatically if you qualify. It will show as “DWP XB” on your bank statement.
Will the Christmas Bonus affect my other benefits or tax status?
No, the bonus is completely tax-free and does not impact any of your other DWP benefits.
When will I receive the Christmas Bonus?
Payments typically begin in mid to late December, following the first full week of the month, which is the qualifying period.
