The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to distribute a Christmas bonus to numerous benefit claimants. This bonus, valued at £10, has faced criticism in past years for being deemed inadequate given the increasing expenses and inflation rates. Since its inception in 1972, the bonus amount has remained unchanged, except for a temporary raise to £70 in 2008 during the financial crisis, which was subsequently reverted back to £10 the following year.
To be eligible for the DWP Christmas bonus, individuals must be receiving specific benefits during the qualifying week, typically the first full week of December. The benefits include:
– Attendance Allowance
– Carer’s Allowance
– Disability Living Allowance
– Pension Credit
– State Pension
– War Widow’s Pension
– Armed Forces Independence Payment
– Constant Attendance Allowance
– Industrial Injuries Benefits
– Mobility Supplement
– Severe Disablement Allowance
– Unemployability Supplement
Recipients must be present or considered “ordinarily resident” in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar during the qualifying week. The bonus is automatically deposited into recipients’ accounts and will display as “DWP XB” on their bank statements. It is tax-free and does not impact other benefits. Married couples, civil partners, or cohabiting individuals can each receive the bonus if both are claiming qualifying benefits.
Even if one partner does not receive a qualifying benefit, they may still be eligible for the Christmas bonus provided they meet certain criteria. The bonus aims to provide additional support during the holiday season to those receiving specific government benefits.