The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides a £10 Christmas Bonus to state pensioners and individuals receiving specific benefits in December. This one-off, tax-free payment is designed to offer additional financial support during the holiday season.
While the bonus does not replace the £200-£300 Winter Fuel Payment many pensioners lost, it provides a modest boost for those who meet the eligibility criteria.
The Christmas Bonus is a one-off payment of £10 made to individuals who receive a qualifying benefit during the first full week of December. Introduced by Ted Heath’s Conservative Government in 1972, the bonus has remained unchanged in value for over 50 years.
In today’s money, the bonus would be worth approximately £165 when adjusted for inflation, based on data from the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS).
Separate Deposit: Paid independently of regular state pension or benefit payments.
Bank Statement Reference: Appears as ‘DWP XB’.
Who Is Eligible?
Qualifying Benefits
To receive the Christmas Bonus, you must be claiming one of the following benefits during the qualifying period:
State Pension
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Attendance Allowance
Carer’s Allowance
Adult Disability Payment (ADP)
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
In total, 23 benefits qualify for the payment.
Who Does Not Qualify?
Unfortunately, 6.4 million Universal Credit claimants are not eligible for the bonus.
How and When Will It Be Paid?
The Christmas Bonus is processed automatically, and there’s no need to apply.
Timing: Payments are made in mid-December, typically before Christmas.
Separate Payment: The bonus is deposited separately from regular state pension or benefit payments.
Reference: Look for ‘DWP XB’ on your bank statement or online banking account.
Contact the DWP for assistance if you believe you are eligible but have not received the bonus.
The History of the Christmas Bonus
The Christmas Bonus was launched in 1972 under Ted Heath’s Conservative Government. Although it was a meaningful sum then, inflation has significantly reduced its value.
Original Value: £10 in 1972.
According to ONS data, Inflation-Adjusted Value is equivalent to £165 in today’s money.
Despite its unchanged amount, the bonus offers some financial relief during the holiday season.
Practical Tips for Recipients
Confirming Your Payment
Check your bank statement for the ‘DWP XB’ reference in December.
Payments may arrive on a different date than your regular benefit or pension.
Contact DWP If Needed
If you don’t see the payment and believe you qualify, reach out to the DWP for clarification or support.
FAQs
1. Who qualifies for the £10 Christmas Bonus?
State pensioners and individuals receiving specific benefits during the first full week of December are eligible.
2. Do Universal Credit claimants qualify for the bonus?
No, Universal Credit claimants are not eligible for the Christmas Bonus.
3. When will the Christmas Bonus be paid?
Payments are typically made in mid-December, before Christmas.
4. Do I need to apply for the Christmas Bonus?
No, the payment is automatic for eligible recipients.
5. How will the payment appear on my bank statement?
The payment will show as ‘DWP XB’ in your bank account.
6. Where can I find more information?
Visit the DWP Website for the official Christmas Bonus guide.
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